Terpenes are an compound found in many different types of plants, but most people believe that they are only found in cannabis precisely because cannabis contains so much terpenes.
So what are terpenes and why do they exist?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that are produced in various plants and also certain insects. Its role is first and foremost to produce distinct aromas.
Terpenes are very important for our plants. Some terpenes play a protective role in the plant and help the plant to recover from damage. Others act as part of the plant’s immune system to keep out infectious bacteria and to fight the plague.
Terpenes in some plants also attract bees which help to disperse pollen.
Different types of terpenes
There are different terpenes in the cannabis / hemp plant, some of the most common are:
Limonene
Limonene is a common terpene that most people recognize by the scent. Just like the scent says, Limonene smells of citrus and orange and thus has a very fresh scent. In addition to cannabis, this terpene is also found in citrus fruits, rosemary and peppermint.
Effects: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, relaxing, invigorating
Also available in: Citrus fruit, rosemary
Pinene
Pine gives a fresh and light scent to many plants. Among other things, pine, rosemary and basil contain Pinene. Pinene is said to have many therapeutic benefits.
Effects: Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic
Also available in: Pine, citrus fruits, basil, counteracts depression
Myrcene
Myrcene can be found in cannabis, lemongrass, thyme and hops. A large part of the volume of terpenes in cannabis is precisely Myrcene. It is precisely this terpene that gives cannabis its earthy aroma.
Effects: Muscle relaxant, helps with sleep disorders, anti-inflammatory
Also available in: Thyme, cardamom, hops
Linalool
Linalool is most common in Lavender and gives the flower its rich scent. In addition to lavender, you will also find Linalool in mushrooms, mint and cinnamon.
Linalool is widely used in aromatic pies and is responsible for the calming effect that many people feel when they smell lavender or essential oil with Linalool in it.
Effects: Soothing, strengthens the immune system
Also available in: Lavender, cinnamon
Beta-caryophyllene
Beta-caryophyllene is found in many herbs and vegetables. Black pepper and cloves contain, among other things, Beta-caryophyllene. The scent is spicy and woody scent.
Effects: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, relaxing
Also available in: Black pepper, rosemary, cloves
References
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-are-terpenes#types
https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/terpenes-the-flavors-of-cannabis-aromatherapy