Hemp 101: 3 Common Terpenes Found in Hemp & Their Effects
There are over 100 different kinds of terpenes found throughout the hemp plant. These compounds make their way into full-spectrum products via the extraction process. You might be asking yourself, “What are terpenes, and what purpose do they serve?” Continue reading to learn more about 3 common terpenes found in hemp and their effect on your endocannabinoid system.
Terpenes are simply the ‘essential oils’ of the hemp plant. These oils are responsible for the many aromas and flavors of the hemp plant through their differing compound structures. Very similar to lavender and rosemary, these essential oils come with various benefits that can frequently be overlooked. There are thousands of cannabis strains, and each one contains different scents and aromas.
Terpenes promote many health benefits, but it’s important to note that they don’t contain CBD themselves. Terpenes and terpenoids can be found in many other flower-producing plants. But, when terpenes interact with other properties from the hemp plant, they activate synergistic benefits (also known as the entourage effect).
Myrcene
Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes found in the hemp plant. You can also find myrcene in hops, which gives it the peppery, spicy, and balsam scent found in many beers. This compound is also found in thyme, mango, and lemongrass. It is commonly believed that myrcene promotes calming, sedative effects. These calming effects have been taken advantage of through traditional folk medicine for centuries. If you struggle with pain, inflammation or insomnia, myrcene can surely help.
Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is a spicier scented terpene. This aromatic compound is found in black pepper, basil, oregano, and of course, hemp. Fun fact: this terpene is the only terpene that also acts as a cannabinoid through activating your endocannabinoid system through binding with receptors, promoting powerful pharmacological effects. This molecule is much larger than its cousins, myrcene, and limonene. Studies with rodents have shown evidence of caryophyllene’s discomfort reducing properties through its interactions with the endocannabinoid system’s CB2 receptors. It also contains anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-depressant properties.
Limonene
Limonene is widely known due to the fact that it is commonly found in fruit rinds from oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. This fruity aromatic compound is pleasant, fresh, and sometimes tart. It is commonly believed that limonene provides discomfort relief, in addition to many other possible therapeutic effects. Based on current evidence, limonene can elevate mood and relieve stress. For those who manage depression, anxiety, pain, inflammation and cancer, consider using hemp strains that include limonene. It contains anti-fungal properties that can help reduce gastrointestinal distress as well.
Try CBD Products from New Spectrum Labs
When you’re shopping for full-spectrum CBD products, be sure to choose products that contain the 3 terpenes listed above to target your specific needs. Through the ‘entourage effect’ of combining these many terpenes with cannabinoids, you can be sure you are maximizing the benefits provided by your CBD product. For this reason, we recommend you look no further.
Our CBD products here at the New Spectrum Labs contain more terpenes than the ones listed above, abundant cannabinoids, and of course, full-spectrum hemp oil extract. From tinctures to balms, and lotions to drinks — we have a variety of methods for you to reap the benefits of CBD throughout the day.
Check out our entire collection now, and enhance your overall wellness!
