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What Are Marijuana Terpenes and Their Benefits? 

Terpenes and cannabinoids​ are the primary compounds found in marijuana that provide the medical benefits and effects experienced when consuming different marijuana products and strains.

Terpenes are the fragrant oils that are secreted in cannabis trichomes which gives cannabis their distinct color and fragrances. They offer a wide range of medicinal benefits and each has its own different qualities that contribute to the overall makeup of cannabis strains. There are over 100 terpenes that have been discovered. The following guide shows some of the most common terpenes and the medicinal benefits they provide.

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Pinene

Pinene is responsible for the fresh pine smell that is associated with cannabis. Pinene can also be found in things such as orange peels, pine needles, basil, parsley, rosemary, and turpentine. In fact, pinene is the amplest terpene in the plant kingdom.

Studies so far have shown that pinene has the following properties: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-proliferative, antiseptic, bronchodilator - which helps open airways. Pinene may also help combat short-term memory impairment associated with THC.

Pinene is most commonly used for the treatment of pain, inflammation, asthma, anxiety ulcers, and even cancer. Popular strains that are high in pinene include OG Kush, Blue Dream and Jack Herer. 

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Limonene

Limonene usually occurs in small quantities, generally between 1-2%. On its own, limonene commonly reflects a fruity, citrus aroma. Limonene can also be found in a variety of everyday items such as cosmetics, cleaning products, fruit rinds, rosemary, juniper, and peppermint.

Studies have suggested that Limonene has the following properties: antifungal properties, antibacterial properties and may help relieve gastric reflux and heartburn. Limonene can even help improve the absorption of other terpenes and chemicals by the way of the skin, digestive tract, and mucous membranes.

Limonene is most often used for the treatment of anxiety, depression as it can elevate one's mood and relieve stress. It is also helpful for combating pain, inflammation and cancer.

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Myrcene

The terpene, Myrcene, has been known to constitute for up to 50% of the total terpene content found in individual cannabis strains! On its own, Myrcene portrays an earthy, herbal and musky aroma.

Studies so far have suggested that this terpene has the following properties: anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibiotic, antimutagenic, and displays sedative effects. There are promising efforts for Myrcene's anti-tumor effects, with therapeutic potential in cancer treatment.

Myrcene is most often used for the treatment of chronic pain, inflammation, insomnia, chronic pain, and even works as an antioxidant.

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Beta-Caryophyllene

The terpene, Beta-caryophyllene, has been commonly described as terpene is commonly described as exhibiting a distinct peppery smell, and can be found in high amounts in things such as hops, cloves and rosemary.

Studies have suggested that Beta-caryophyllene has the following properties: pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, and helps protect cells that line the digestive tract.

 

Beta-caryophyllene is most commonly used for the treatment of anxiety, depression as it helps relieve stress. It is also beneficial in helping with symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease and ulcers.

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Terpinolene

Terpinolene is more multidimensional than other terpenes and it gives off a floral, piney and even citrusy aroma. 

 

Studies so far have suggested that Terpinolene has the following properties: antioxidant, sedative, antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer. There are promising efforts for Terpinolene's sedative and calming effects, in addition to the potential to reduce the risk of heart disease and inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.

Terpinolene's mild yet effective depressant action on the central nervous system means it can be used for insomnia treatment in addition to psychological excitement and anxiety.

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Linalool

Linalool can be found in lavender and is mildly psychoactive. This terpene can often be associated with calming and anti-anxiety effects as it provides mood enhancement and can also act as a sedative.

 

Linalool is most commonly used to help treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, pain and inflammation.


Cannabis strains high in linalool are very rare, but can be found in Bubba Kush, Do-Si-Dos and Kosher Kush.

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Ocimene

Ocimene is known to have a woody, herbal, yet sweet aroma. Its medicinal properties include anti-viral, anti-fungal, antiseptic, antibacterial and decongestant. 

 

Research has shown promising efforts for Ocimene's potential to suppress the production of several different inflammatory substances emitted by the immune system.

Ocimene can be found in cannabis strains such as Strawberry Cough, Space Queen and Golden Goat.

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Humulene

Humelene projects a woody and earthy bouquet of aromas. In fact, this terpene is also responsible for giving hoppy beers their distinct taste and smell! 

 

Humulene has shown to have the following properties: antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and appetite suppressant. Research has shown promising efforts of Humulene's potential to help diminish cancer cells when combined it is combined with cannabinoids and other terpenes. 

This common terpene can be found in strains such as Gelato, Girl Scout Cookies, and Sherbert and Headband.

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