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The Science Behind the Smell Common Cannabis Terpenes and Their Therapeutic Effects By Patricia Miller The human nose can detect over a trillion
Compounds called terpenes create the aroma of
unique scents, according to research published in
many plants, particularly cannabis. Terpenes can
the journal Science. The nose is also a primary tool
also protect plants against bacteria, viruses, and
for evaluating the quality of cannabis. As research
fungi. Nadav Eyal specializes in terpene research
around marijuana expands, it seems aroma compounds are responsible for more than just smell — they can also impact the way cannabis affects our bodies.
and formulations as the CEO and co-founder of Eybna Technologies. He says people, just like plants, use terpenes for both smell and protection. “Terpenes are responsible for the unique smells
Photo: iStockphoto.com/Gleti
Photo: iStockphoto.com/Gleti
Myrcene This terpene has citrusy notes like those found in mangoes and lemongrass. It’s also the active sedating principle of hops. The British Journal of Pharmacology published a study titled “Taming THC …” by Ethan B. Russo which explores terpenes and their effects. Russo found myrcene diminishes inflammation and “acted as a muscle relaxant in mice.”
Photo: iStockphoto.com/Gleti
Former budtender and current Technical Support Associate for STM Canna Christopher Mendoza calls it the “terpene of sunshine,” because it makes people feel happy.
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and tastes of cannabis flowers. They’re also substances with antibacterial, antiviral, antiinflammatory, and therapeutic properties,” said Eyal. Inhaling cannabis into the lungs increases the bioavailability of these terpenes, he said, making it an ideal tool for researching the medical potential of these smelly compounds. Below are a few common cannabis terpenes and some expert insight into their effects.
Limonene This compound also has notes of citrus. The study “Neuroprotective Effects of Limonene” published in Issue 3 of Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin said limonene can decrease cell death and brain inflammation. CEO of Ilera Holistic Healthcare Dr. Chanda Macias told Cannabis & Tech Today, “Limonene is a natural antidepressant and a diuretic.” She often suggests limonene-dominant cannabis products to patients dealing with pain and depression, as the two symptoms frequently coincide.
Pinene There are many pinene compounds, such as A Pinene and B Pinene. Overall, Russo says pinene is anti-inflammatory, a bronchodilator, and a broad-spectrum antibiotic. “Perhaps most compelling, however, is its activity as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor aiding memory … This feature could counteract shortterm memory deficits induced by THC intoxication,” says Russo.
