WHAT ARE TERPENES?

Terpenes are the organic hydrocarbons found in cannabis, giving the plant and its flowers a characteristic aroma. They are also a defense mechanism used by the plant to prevent animals from trying to eat it. These terpenes are produced in the resin glands of cannabis. They are commonly known as the "essential oils" of the plant.

HOW DO THEY AFFECT? AND WHAT ARE ITS BENEFITS?

The function of terpenes in the human body is basically to interact with cellular and neuronal receptors, modulating neurotransmitter levels. This interaction helps to increase the activity of dopamine, regulating motivation, pleasure or reward and preventing the breakdown of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that makes us feel good and happy.

TYPES OF TERPENES

Cannabis can contain up to 200 different terpenes, among the most important we can highlight:

• Linalool: It has been shown to have relaxing effects, helping to fall asleep, promoting the production of vitamin E and reducing lung inflammation caused by smoking or Alzheimer's. It also helps with epilepsy and keeps stress under control. It is anesthetic, analgesic and anticonvulsant. Content in about 200 species, including: cinnamon, mint, mushrooms, flowers and lavender.
• limonene : This terpene is used to help lose weight, improve gastroesophageal reflux, relieve bronchitis, depression, anxiety, and treat and prevent cancer. In cannabis it usually has a pungent citrus aroma like orange or lime. It is also found in the peels of mint, juniper, rosemary and citrus.
• B-Myrcene: It is the most abundant terpene secreted by cannabis, occupying up to half of the volume of the terpene. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used as a sedative or muscle relaxant. We can also find it in thyme, lemon grass, mango, eucalyptus or hops.
• B-Caryophyllene: It is the only one that interacts with the endocannabinoid system to produce its aroma. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce chronic pain, depression, and anxiety. We can also find it in cinnamon, Thai basil and black pepper.
• Terpinolene : It can be used in antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal treatments. In experiments with rats it has been shown to have an anticancer effect on the brain.
• Ocimen: It has anti-inflammatory effects, antifungal (fungal) and antiviral properties. It is characterized by having a sweet aroma of grass and wood and its smell is fruity and slightly citrusy.