Linalool
Lavender flowers were once believed to ward off evil, and were commonly used in perfumes, hung in doorways and worn in satchels around the neck. It was thought to protect those who used it from “evil spirits” and “demonic fits” – or, what we now know to be contagious diseases (like cholera) and mental health conditions (like depression and anxiety).
Animal studies have shown that it has anti-anxiety and anti-depressant qualities, works well as an anticonvulsant, and can relieve pain caused by inflammation. One study even showed that linalool was able to reverse the some of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s in mice, and restore their cognitive and emotional functions.
What is a
Terpene?
Terpenes are natural compounds that are found in plants and insects. More than 200 terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant. With a wide variety of therapeutic effects, terpenes can help the body destroy bacteria, detoxify, relax, and more.
Humulene
The next time you take a sip of beer, pause for a moment to notice the scent. Do you smell something familiar? If you’re acquainted with the unique aroma of cannabis, you’ll probably find a slight similarity with the smell of the hops in your beer.
The mutual factor is humulene, a terpene common to both cannabis and hops. Hops are a cousin of cannabis and a key ingredient in beer. Humulene has a woodsy, earthy smell that gives beer its hoppy characteristic.
Humulene is believed to benefit the body in several ways. Animal studies show that it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It’s also a potent insecticide.
Alpha-Pinene
Pinene is found in pine trees, and produces that same crisp, familiar scent. If you’ve ever felt your lungs open up when you take a deep breath of mountain air, or sensed a tickle in your nose when you smell fresh rosemary or dill, that’s all pinene.
Pinene has an assortment of beneficial effects. Studies have shown that both forms of pinene have potential anti-inflammatory, antiallergic and antimicrobial properties. One study even showed that pinene helped increase the memory and brain function in animals. Pinene is also believed to have anticonvulsant and gastroprotective properties.
Beta-Caryophyllene
B-Caryophyllene is the only known terpene that also behaves like a cannabinoid. Unlike other terpenes—which mainly enhance the effects of THC or CBD—b-caryophyllene interacts directly with the endocannabinoid system by binding to CB2 receptors.
Early research shows that b-caryophyllene has incredible anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It also has the potential to relieve the symptoms of both neuropathic and inflammatory pain, with animal studies suggesting that it could be an effective treatment for multiple sclerosis. Other animal studies have shown that b-caryophyllene has potential to help treat anxiety and depression.
Essential oils containing b-caryophyllene are used to support healthy nervous, cardiovascular and digestive systems. Using b-caryophyllene topically may even help maintain youthful looking skin (just be sure to mix it with a skin-friendly carrier oil first). It’s important to note that there is no clinical research to support these findings, although they are widely accepted in the natural healing community.
Myrcene
That pungent, earthy, instantly recognizable scent is primarily caused by myrcene, one of the most prevalent terpenes found in cannabis.
Myrcene is known to have a strong relaxing effect. Plants containing myrcene, such as lemongrass, have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. In animal studies, myrcene was shown to have anti-inflammatory, sedative and pain-relieving properties. It can also help increase transdermal absorption, which makes it easier for other pain-relieving cannabinoids like THC to reach affected areas of the body. Additional animal research shows that myrcene can help enhance muscle relaxation and increase sleeping time.
Essential oils rich in myrcene—such as verbena, thyme and lemongrass—are used to help relieve headaches and muscle tension, applied topically to protect minor skin injuries from infection, and can be mixed with tea to improve digestion.
…and many more!
Learn what terpenes work best for you.
View our menu for details on our current strains and terpene information.
Eucalyptol
This terpene’s name originated from the Australian eucalyptus tree. Eucalyptol has a minty scent with a subtle, sweet spice. You can also find it in other refreshing herbs like basil, rosemary and sage.
Eucalyptol could potentially play an important role in the treatment of several chronic diseases. Researchers have found that its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can be beneficial for people living with a variety of conditions caused by chronic inflammation. Studies have also shown that eucalyptol can be an effective treatment for respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis, and can be used topically to help relieve muscle and joint pain or prevent infection in minor skin wounds.
Eucalyptol is used in aromatherapy to help stimulate the body and the mind, and help you feel less mentally drained. Try incorporating eucalyptol into your daily wellness routine to refresh, revive and restore balance.