As the use of medical cannabis grows, research on cannabinoids and terpenes used for treating qualifying medical conditions has also expanded. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis that are believed to offer additional therapeutic benefits. Researchers are exploring how cannabinoids and terpenes work together to enhance the therapeutic effects of medical cannabis.
What are terpenes?
Terpenes are various isomeric hydrocarbons found in essential oils, resins and balsams. These naturally occurring aromatic compounds are found in most plants and are behind the odiferous scents we're familiar with, such as citrus, lavender, pine and eucalyptus.
What do terpenes do?
The cannabis plant produces over 200 different terpenes. Beyond creating a memorable scent and flavor, terpenes are believed to have many therapeutic and medicinal purposes that may offer patients additional relief from qualifying conditions when using medical cannabis.
Some of the medicinal properties of terpenes may include:
- Antimicrobial
- Antifungal
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anticancer
- Antiparasitic
What are the potential benefits?
The medicinal benefits of the plant may be amplified through the presence of terpenes, cannabinoids and flavonoids, a concept referred to as the "entourage effect."
A research study published in May 2024 suggests terpenes may work as well as morphine in reducing pain and appear to enhance pain management for patients when paired with morphine. Another positive note gleaned from this study is that the terpenes didn't produce a reward response in the brain like opiates, which could indicate that terpenes could be utilized for pain management in place of traditionally used opiates.
Another recent study indicated terpenes could be utilized to help mitigate the negative effects of THC, but more research is needed.
What Texas Original products contain terpenes?
Texas Original offers several medical cannabis products that contain terpenes, including our RSO (Rick Simpson Oil) products, the Unflavored/Plus Tinctures and the 1:2 Sweet Dreams gummies and tincture. Below is a list of terpenes found in Texas Original’s products.
- Terpinolene: Sweet and woody scent, that may help reduce anxiety due to its anti-depressant and neuroprotective properties and may provide a calming or sedated experience.
- Beta-Myrcene: Responsible for the scent and flavor of hops, with an earthy, lemongrass scent, that may induce a calming effect and is known to have antioxidant properties and may have analgesic and anti-inflammatory qualities.
- Alpha-Pinene: A sweet piney scent, may reduce anxiety, increase focus and may help counteract the negative effects of THC.
- Beta-Pinene: Earthy and woodsy scent, reminiscent of basil and dill, with properties that may improve cognitive functions and clarity. This terpene is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Linalool: Its scent is considered calming and resembles the smell of lavender, which might be why it's thought to help with anxiety and sleep disorders. It also may have analgesic and immune-boosting properties.
- Limonene: Beyond giving citrus fruits their scent, it's also the smell behind rosemary, mint and juniper. Studies show that limonene may be good for stress relief, heartburn and reflux while being known for its antibacterial and antifungal attributes.
- Alpha-Ocimene: Sweet and herbaceous, the potential benefits include anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antifungal. Patients might experience a mood-enhancing lift, which could help fight feelings of anxiety.
- Beta-Caryophyllene: Spicy and peppery aroma and may help prevent osteoporosis and bone density issues by building stronger bones and slowing the process of bone breakage. It may help boost the effects of a cancer-fighting drug, Paclitaxel, and may also help with inflammation brought on by immune diseases and MS.
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