What Are Terpenes & How They Help CBD Oil?

Plants and in particular the cannabis plant consist of a wide variety of compounds, a large group of these belong to a class of volatile aromatic hydrocarbons called terpenes/terpenoids, although the terms are commonly confused to mean the same thing, they do not.

Terpenes are hydrocarbons whereas terpenoids have been denatured by oxygen. Have you ever wondered what gives lavender its amazing smell and relaxing effect? Over 200 terpenes exist in varying concentrations in cannabis plants which produce the smell and flavour profiles known to give cannabis strains such as Super Lemon Haze and OG Kush their specific individuality. 

Terpenes have been theorised to have synergistic effects when combined with cannabinoids. CBD oil with terpenes has also been theorised to have a more rapid effect specific result, usually geared towards an uplifting or relaxing result. 

American neurologist and pharmacology researcher Dr Russo has a paper describing how 

“terpenoid components in concentrations above 0.05% are considered of pharmacological interest”

CBD oil will contain naturally occurring terpenes and flavonoids, unless it is made from CBD isolated extract, in which case companies will usually add terpenes to the blends to enhance them. The most abundant terpenes found in hemp are below;

• Myrcene - known for it’s anti-sceptic, anti inflammatory anti bacterial and anti-fungal properties Myrcene is also found in mangoes and is the most abundant terpene found in cannabis plants, this is the terpene responsible for giving cannabis its amazing aroma. 
• Caryophyllene - known to be a powerful antioxidant and provide pain relief This terpene is famous for its warm, woody and spicy scent also found in black pepper and cinnamon.
• Linalool - effective for treating insomnia, stress, depression and anxiety Linalool is the wonderful terpene responsible for giving lavender its relaxing effects, providing a calming, anti anxiety and anti depressant like effect.
• Pinene - effective in treating inflammation Pinene is the most abundant terpene in the pine tree species and is a powerful bronchodilator.
• Humulene - a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti bacterial Humulene is found in abundance in cloves, basil and hops, this terpene has been studied for its anti inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
• Limonene - known for having an anti depressant effect, also good for anxiety The second most abundant terpene in cannabis, this terpene is responsible for the citrusy uplifting smell in strains such as Super Lemon Haze, helping to uplift and enhance the users mood.

Purephyto CBD oils contain terpenes designed for effect specific use, Purephyto CBD oils complete 200 & 750 contain non specific naturally occurring terpenes.

Purephyto products are not intended for medical use and are marketed as food supplements. Purephyto blogs are researched and written by third party contractors, Purephyto do not accept liability in any suggestions blog posts may imply, such as but not limited to dosages, uses, medicinal value (if any). Purephyto blogs are written for information purposes only by advocates of plant based remedies, due diligence has been taken in analysing accuracy of information within these blogs. Please contact a medical practitioner if you need medical advice.