Cannabis is renowned for its numerous terpenes, with approximately 140 identified cannabis terpenes. These cannabis terpenes have been found to confer a range of effects on the cannabis plant, and may also influence the effects cannabis has on humans who consume it.
One key cannabis terpene that has been studied in detail is caryophyllene. Caryophyllene produces an aroma of pepper and spice when heated, and can be found in many spices including black pepper, cinnamon, and oregano.
Studies have shown positive results when caryophyllene was used for pain relief, to reduce inflammation, and anecdotal information suggests caryophyllene may even help in fighting cancer cells.
Other patients have seen success in using cannabis rich in caryophyllene to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
It’s no surprise that cannabis terpenes like caryophyllene have generated so much interest in the cannabis industry. Terpenes have the potential to enhance cannabis’ effects. Terpenes and cannabinoids interact with the body by binding to receptors in the endocannabinoid system. As a result, patients may feel different or enriched effects based on the concentration of certain terpenes in the cannabis they consume.
Cannabis consumers often make choices of flower based off of THC percentages, perceived to be the best measurement of potency, but conventional knowledge has started to shift in recent years – as more and more cultivators and consumers have changed their view on quality and to some extent potency to focus on cannabinoid and terpene profiles.
Consumers and patients may notice that using the same cultivar at different times of the day sometimes yields different effects and results. That can often be attributed to deficiencies and abundances of terpenes and cannabinoids already in the body.
For a patient who smokes a myrcene-rich strain like Blue Dream before breakfast, they may feel completely different than if they were to smoke the same strain – consuming the same dosage, after eating a meal with a hefty amount of mangoes or lemongrass.
Myrcene has a pungent, earthy aroma and is often said to induce feelings of sedation and calm, with some reports suggesting the terpene may also have analgesic properties.
Studies have shown that Myrcene helps improve taste and smell while reducing the bitterness of other terpenes including caryophyllene.
The terpene and cannabinoid profiles in cannabis are quickly becoming the best measuring stick for quality and an understanding of how cannabis truly affects consumers. Understanding the makeup of the cannabis we consume is the key to unlocking the best experiences and true potential of cannabis consumption.
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