In the world of CBD, we speak and write often about the compounds that naturally occur in the industrial hemp plant, like cannabinoids and terpenes. But what are CBD terpenes, and what is their role?
We know that cannabinoids like cannabidiol interact with the human endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The ECS brings homeostasis to the body when it’s properly nourished.
Terpenes, on the other hand, are potent chemical compounds that give plants their aromas, colors, and flavors. They’re produced by most plants and even some animals, such as termites and swallowtail butterflies.
Have you ever wondered why the spruce tree smells different than the cedar–even though they’re both evergreens? Each tree has a unique terpene profile, which yields a characteristic scent.
Terpenes are one of the major components of essential oils. They evaporate quickly; because of this, they are used frequently in aromatherapy, perfume, and even food additives. Terpenes come in a wide range of varieties; some are even thought to have nutritive benefits. (Vitamin A is a type of terpene, for instance.)
Many foods we encounter on a daily basis contain terpenes; for example, maple syrup has over 300 different types of terpenes.
Terpenes are usually organized into categories based on their molecular makeup. These groups are monoterpenes, diterpenes, and sesquiterpenes. Overall, terpenes are one of the most populous types of plant chemicals. There are around 20,000 different types of terpenes in the world.
Each plant species has its own unique blend and ratio of terpenes, called a terpene profile. This ratio is what determines the specific characteristics of each plant.
How Many Terpenes Are in CBD?
Hemp has over 200 different types of terpenes, and each hemp cultivar has its own unique terpene profile.
Let’s explore some of the terpenes most commonly found in hemp.
- Beta-Caryophyllene (BCP) is the only terpene that directly interacts with a cannabinoid receptor, CB2, in the body’s endocannabinoid system. BCP is the very first FDA-approved dietary cannabinoid and is frequently used as a food additive. It’s is commonly found in hemp, basil, oregano, black pepper, and various green, leafy vegetables. BCP may alleviate temporary symptoms of inflammation.
- Pinene is one of the more recognizable terpenes. It’s also found in conifers, rosemary, and sage. Pinene is frequently used to deter insects and animals. There is current research on Pinene’s high antibacterial properties. It is also known to promote focus and alertness.
- Limonene is a terpene found in hemp, peppermint, juniper, and many citrus fruits. It is the second-most commonly found terpene. Limonene is known for promoting a relaxed state and a sense of well-being.
- Myrcene is found in menthol, basil, thyme, hops, mangoes, hemp, and lemongrass. It is widely used in perfumes. Myrcene supports a relaxed state. It also increases cell membrane permeability, allowing for higher bioavailability of cannabinoids.
- Linalool may promote a sense of well-being, as well as alleviating temporary symptoms of inflammation. Aside from hemp, it’s commonly found in lavender, rosemary, coriander, and oregano.
- Nerolidol is one of the most molecularly stable of all the terpenes. It is often found in tea tree, jasmine, ginger, and citrus fruit peelings.
- Caryophyllene-Oxide has a distinctive, woodsy scent and is most commonly found in hemp, rosemary, cloves, hops, and basil.
Full-Spectrum CBD Preserves Hemp’s Full Terpene Profile
The number of terpenes found in CBD oil is determined by the extraction process. This is one of the reasons Elixinol uses a supercritical CO2 extraction technique; it’s a clean process that allows for the full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, antioxidants, and phytonutrients in hemp to be preserved.
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