Hooray for an expedition into the rich universe of aromatics: meet the terpenes!

08. 01. 2025

• What are terpenes?
• Space substance at your fingertips: how are terpenes obtained?
• In hemp heaven
• The power of terpene stars
• Stars of the cannabis universe
• Myrcene - peace is power
• Limonen - on the waves of good mood
• Pinen - breathe freely even in space
• Linalool - the peace of deep space
• Beta-caryophyllene - as powerful as Jupiter
• Humulen - energy balance
• Supernal force in the earthly world
• Conclusion

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are multipurpose aromatic substances found in herbs, flowers, trees, fruits and vegetables. They protect the plant from external influences such as overheating and UV radiation, just as the atmosphere protects our Earth from the sun. The scent they produce repels pests and attracts pollinators, which are important for the quality development and reproduction of the plant. As a rule, the more aromatic a plant is, the richer the concentration of terpenes it has.

Space substance at your fingertips: how are terpenes obtained?

Terpenes can be extracted in several ways, with the choice of method depending on the purity and purpose desired. The most commonly used are steam distillation, which heats the plant material with steam to release volatiles, or CO₂ extraction, which uses supercritical carbon dioxide to accurately and gently extract terpenes without residual solvents. Other methods are solvent extraction, mechanical pressing, ultrasonic extraction and vacuum distillation. Each of these methods preserves the natural properties of the terpenes to varying degrees.
CO₂ extraction and vacuum distillation are considered the most ideal methods for the purest and most gentle methods.

In hemp heaven

There are over two hundred terpenes in cannabis, stars with their own galaxy of properties. Although most of them are present in only minute quantities, that doesn't mean they aren't important - they play a key role in shaping the resulting aroma and flavor that make each strain or cannabis product unique.

Different combinations of terpenes can result in flavours that evoke the taste of juicy fruits, sweet desserts, favourite drinks and a range of other popular and less common flavours. Of course, adventurers and space travellers will also enjoy the right mix of terpenes to simulate an extraterrestrial flavour - such as Galaxy Mist or Astral Awakening.

In cannabis, terpenes are concentrated in trichomes. These are resin glands on the surface of the plant that produce cannabinoids such as CBD or THC. Terpenes can support, enhance and modulate the action of cannabinoids, thus amplifying their effects. Together, they form a cannabis star system where each component has its own importance, combining them to create a harmonious interplay we call the entourage effect.

 

The power of terpene stars

We have already learned what terpenes are used for in plants. But how can humans benefit from them?

The aromatic properties of terpenes are like a star orchestra that tunes our psyche: mood, ability to concentrate or relax. They stimulate the nervous system and can cheer us up or calm us down.

A scientific publication, Medicinal Plants, published in 2019, states that terpenes should be antimicrobial, as confirmed by a study published in the journal Molecules, and antiviral. This study suggests that terpenes could act as antioxidants in the human body - neutralising free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative stress, thus slowing ageing and reducing the risk of degenerative diseases.

Some terpenes have purported anti-inflammatory properties, while others could regulate blood sugar levels and provide new solutions in the treatment of diabetes and related metabolic disorders. The publication also suggests that some terpenes could even be effective in the treatment of malaria and cancer.

Although terpenes are proving to be useful space allies, their research is still in its infancy. Indeed, until recently, experts have focused primarily on cannabinoids, so this aromatic cosmos needs to be explored in more detail before conclusions can be drawn.

Stars of the cannabis universe

Despite the fact that each terpene is unique and has its own unique effects, some stars shine more than others. Some of the most established and popular terpenes include:

Myrcene - peace is power

Myrcene has an earthy and musky aroma with hints of clove and fruit. Its sedative properties are thought to reduce stress, anxiety and pain, relieve inflammation and promote sleep. It is contained in Blue Dream and OG Kush, for example.

Limonen - on the waves of good mood

Limonene, with its typical fresh citrus scent, is a terpene that can boost mood and increase creativity. It is supposed to act as an antioxidant, lower blood sugar and even help fight cancer. For example, Super Lemon Haze and Wedding Cake are high in limonene.

Pinen - breathe freely even in space

Pinen is popular for its fresh conifer aroma. It is used to improve memory and concentration. It is thought to dilate the airways and to be antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, supporting the respiratory system in conditions such as asthma. Varieties such as Jack Herer and Strawberry Cough are rich in pinene.

 

Linalool - the peace of deep space

Linalool has a typical soothing lavender scent. It is supposed to help relieve stress, anxiety and depression and reduce inflammation. It is typically found in Lavender and Amnesia Haze, for example.

Beta-caryophyllene - as powerful as Jupiter

Beta-caryophyllene is characterized by a spicy, peppery and woody aroma. It is the only known terpene in cannabis that has the ability to bind directly to the CB2 receptor in the human body's endocannabinoid system like some cannabinoids, so it can be said to be a bridge between cannabinoids and terpenes.

It could reduce pain and have strong anti-inflammatory properties and even shows potential in the treatment of cancer. It is represented, for example, in Sour Diesel and Girl Scout Cookies.

Humulen - energy balance

Humulen has an earthy and hoppy aroma. It is used to promote a healthy metabolism, weight management and also shows potential in the treatment of inflammation. Typically found in varieties such as White Widow and Skywalker OG.

 

Supernal force in the earthly world

The potential of terpenes is endless - they not only shine in plant development, but also enrich the human world with their unique properties. In what form can we encounter them?

• Isolated terpenes
  Terpenes can be obtained as separate components. They are used to flavour foods, cosmetics or to create specific aromas in vaping liquids and essential oils.
• Terpenes for aromatherapy, perfumery and cosmetics
  Due to their scents and effects on the psyche, terpenes are widely used in aromatherapy, perfumery and other cosmetics and drugstores.
• Full spectrum products
  Full-spectrum cannabis products contain a full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes - the synergy between the individual substances creates a so-called additive effect that increases their effectiveness.

Conclusion

As in the universe, there is still much to discover in the world of terpenes. We know that these aromatic compounds not only play a key role in plant life, but can also have a significant impact on humans - from their effects on the psyche to their comprehensive support of physical health, thanks to their potential antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Some of them even show potential in the treatment of diabetes, malaria and cancer. Terpenes could also potentiate the effects of cannabinoids. Whether as isolated ingredients or as part of drug and full-spectrum products, terpenes show that their potential is immeasurable and certainly worthy of further research.

 

Author: Natálie Kubíčková

 

   

Photo: AI

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