Cannabis

New Study Proves Therapeutic Benefits Of Terpenes For The Human Body

Published

2 years ago

February 24, 2023

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Most people still think that the levels of either the psychoactive compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) or anxiety-relieving, relaxing CBD (cannabidiol) in cannabis products are the most important factors to check for.

However, there is a growing breed of educated cannabis consumers who know that THC and CBD don’t need to hog the spotlight. If you are after certain effects of cannabis, it’s worthwhile to check for the terpene contents in each product or strain before you spend money on it. These terpenes, which are naturally occurring compounds not just in marijuana but in other plants as well, are responsible for the unique flavor profile and aroma in certain strains.

More importantly, terpenes also have medical value and can contribute to the entourage effect, enhancing the therapeutic benefits of other cannabinoids present in the plant. Many terpenes have been found to possess valuable anti-inflammatory properties, treat pain, reduce anxiety, and even treat fungus and bacteria.

marijuana — Photo by Emilija Manevska/Getty Images

Certain cannabis products such as isolates, are processed enough that there are no longer any terpene content or any other compounds in it. But for medical cannabis patients most especially, there are significant benefits to enjoy when consuming cannabis products with a rich terpene profile.

There are more studies that prove these therapeutic benefits of terpenes.

The latest study was conducted by researchers from the University of New Mexico. They analyzed participants who consumed 633 various types of cannabis flower, and they were asked to rate the efficiency of each. The participants consumed cannabis at home then were tasked to report any changes in their symptoms through a mobile software application. Afterwards, the researchers analyzed these trends.

“Symptom relief was greatest after consumption of plant variants with slightly higher than average levels of the terpenes myrcene and terpinolene and non-detectable levels of CBD. In contrast, chemovars with any detectable levels of CBD provided the least relief, the fewest positive side effects, and the most negative and context-specific side effects. These findings are consistent with previous research showing that naturally abundant CBD in cannabis flower may act as an inhibitor of optimal treatment for certain health conditions,” the researchers wrote.

“The index system described herein enables healthcare providers, patients, scientists, and cannabis retailers to easily categorize cannabis products based on measurable plant characteristics beyond THC and CBD in ways that systemically relate to differing levels of symptoms relief and side effect reporting,” they concluded.

Other Studies

Another study from 2021 reveals that certain terpenes help modulate cannabinoid effects on mice subjects. The researchers, who were from the College of Medicine at the University of Arizona, analyzed the modulatory and functional activity of different terpenes both in vitro and in vivo, alone and with a cannabinoid agonist known as WIN 55,212.

According to the study’s authors, when the terpenes together with the agonist were given to mice, it resulted in an significant analgesic effect compared to when each compound was administered alone. They also added that endogenous cannabinoid receptors were receptive to the terpenes.

The authors reported: “Our findings suggest that these cannabis terpenes are multifunctional cannabimimetic ligands that provide conceptual support for the entourage effect hypothesis and could be used to enhance the therapeutic properties of cannabinoids,” they wrote.

marijuana dispensary — Photo by Zummolo/Getty Images

Which Terpenes Should You Be Looking For?

Scientists know of about 20,000 different kinds of terpenes in the plant world. However, only around 150 have been found in cannabis plants. That said, there are a few important terpenes that can definitely make you feel better:

Myrcene

Myrcene is the most common terpene in cannabis plants. It’s responsible for a clove-like smell, which can also be musky and earthy. Myrcene gives off sedative effects, though this compound is extremely beneficial for treating chronic pain and inflammation.

Individuals struggling with insomnia will also benefit from strains that are high in myrcene. It can also aid with muscle relaxation, anxiety, and stress.

Linalool

Linalool is a terpene that gives off a floral aroma with spicy or woody notes. Like myrcene, it also possesses strong sedative properties and it has long been used for its sleep-inducing properties.

Linalool is beneficial for treating anxiety, depression, seizures, stress, and muscle aches. Studies also show that linalool was effective in strengthening the immune system especially from damage caused by stress.

Limonene

Limonene is another abundant terpene found in most cannabis strains. It gets its name from the lemony, citrusy aroma and flavor it imparts in cannabis. All citrus fruits also possess a great deal of limonene, hence their refreshing aroma.

Limonene is an excellent terpene for improving your overall mood and reducing stress. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. There are also some studies suggesting it may have antioxidant and stress relieving benefits.

rolling a marijuana joint — Photo by Nastasic/Getty Images

Pinene

Pinene is a famous terpene that is known for its refreshing pine smell. In nature, it’s abundant in pine trees, though it’s also found in numerous cannabis strains. When consuming cannabis strains high in pinene, it’s said to increase alertness and can also leave you feeling recharged and more motivated.

Its medical benefits include increasing bronchodilation and airflow, reduced inflammation, and it may also improve your memory. Pinene may also help you combat brain fog and help you work better.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is mostly found in black pepper and cloves, as well as in cannabis. It has a sharp aroma that is peppery and spicy.

Caryophyllene is known for its calming effects but it can also help fight anxiety. More importantly, it’s the only terpene that is known to activate the CB2 receptor, which is why it can provide superior therapeutic benefits. Studies show that caryophyllene can fight inflammation, depression, and bacteria while improving gut health.

Conclusion

THC and CBD aren’t the most important factors when shopping for weed. Why not experiment with cannabis strains that have varying levels of important terpenes to see how it can improve your health?

This article originally appeared on Cannabis.net and has been reposted with permission.

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Biden

Key Tips For Consuming Marijuana At The Local Fair

Published

1 day ago

September 6, 2024

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Fall is the time county fairs, carnivals, and more come to time…while engaging in the fun, there are few tip to know if you are going to consuming marijuana

September is a highlight for country fairs followed by October for the Halloween carnivals. Elephant ears, Ferris wheels and midways all appeal to our childlike delight for fun, excitement, different foods and more. But what if you want to chill out while attending? Well here are key tips for consuming marijuana at the local fair?

RELATED: The Best Refreshing Cocktails

With over 50% of the country having access to legal marijuana, some are taking it for granted like it a beer and is accepted everywhere. But it is wise to think ahead, especially since you are with large groups of people – including families and kids. The Minnesota State Fair is the largest daily attended fair and the Texas State Fair, which is the largest in the country by total attendance, drew a peak daily attendance in 2023 of 141,410 but a total attendance of 2,341,449. Some parts of the fair are geared for kids, others for a mixed crowd, like the pirate ship and roller coasters.

Key Tips For Consuming Marijuana At The Local Fair

Fairs are a sensation extravaganza. The lights, noises, movements, smells and food appeal to all the senses. The midway is the main path or street fairgoers walk along to find sideshows, concession stands, and other amusements.

The first thing is be discreet, fairs are family events. Consider a vape or gummies over smoking. They provide less smell, so are less noticeable. With a vape you can also manage your high.

If you are new to consuming marijuana, consider a low level high so you aren’t overwhelmed by the mass amount of sensations. It will also let you experience both things without freaking out. Part of a gummy might put you in the right spot to absorb everything going on and appreciate it at the next level.

The fair is about food, so know if you are prone to the munchies, this will be a fiesta of flavors. Consider eating beforehand or know this will be a cheat day. From fried butter to hot dogs, it is all going to look good.

Start slow on the rides. Let the high settle into your mind and body before boarding the scrambler. This gives your body time to adjust so there isn’t any unpleasant surprises.

Some fun fact, cotton candy was originally called “fairy floss” and was invented in 1897 by candy makers William Morris and John C. Wharton of Nashville, Tennessee. It was introduced in 1904 at the St. Louis World’s Fair.

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adventure

5 Weed Friendly Last Of Summer Activities

Published

2 days ago

September 5, 2024

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Summer is winding down. A mindset seems to change after Labor Day things are more fall than summer. But the sun is still shining, the temperatures are still up, the water still warm and life is still good. So why not take a moment and really enjoy it and mix in a little extra with marijuana. Here are 5 weed friendly last of summer activities to make “pre-fall” extra fun.

Hit the trail for a hike or long walk

heres what you should do if you want to hike with marijuana — Photo by Colton Duke via Unsplash

A long walk or hike can let the mind wander and observe the wonders of nature. The THC will let you relax and get exercise. Pick an easy movement right, don’t litter and settle into let you mind explore nature. The serenity of the outdoors will seep into your brain and body.

Relax at the beach or lake

5 ways to add cannabis to outdoor summer fun — Photo by Chanikarn Thongsupa via rawpixel.com

While it is warm, it is great time to be on or near the water. There is something about water, the feel, the smell, the gentle movements that are enticing. Just watching the water while high can bring a certain serenity your brain. Kick back and enjoy a vape, gummy or beverage and make sure don’t over indulge while near or in the water.

Lose yourself in a film

Losing yourself in a film is a year round activity, but if you have been busy during the summer, now is the time to plop on the couch, have a bit of a hit and watch the summer blockbusters….and maybe more the watch – really feel them. And by enjoying them know, it frees up to prep for the fall and winter movies and streaming about to hit.

Emerse yourself in art

5 Summer Activities To Do While High — Photo by Igor Miske via Unsplash

Weed makes visual experiences better and emotional ones deeper, which is why watching a movie while high can feel much stronger than if you were to watch it sober. The same applies to a visit to a museum or an art gallery. While you might annoy your friend or whoever you’re with your deep musings, you will for sure be having a great time.

Enjoy a picnic feast

Picnics are great, but high picnics are the best. Plan for a day alone or with friends spent at the park of your choosing, sharing a joint and eating delicious finger food. The more you plan it, the better, giving you the chance to bring speakers, a better selection of food, and more.

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Biden

Presidential Elections Are All Over The Board For Marijuana

Published

2 days ago

September 5, 2024

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It is an odd, odd one – this year election is all over the board, especially for marijuana

This presidential election is turning out to be one for the history books. With Biden dropping out, a Kennedy becoming a major player, AI, and a nation on edge, it is becoming a year which is flustering the public. Few expect a clear outcome the night of the election and worries abound for the results. One key group worried is the cannabis industry, the presidential elections are all over the board for marijuana.

While state legalization is increasing and consumer use is significantly growing, federal restrictions along with chaos in New York and California caused the industry to crash in 2022 and it has struggled ever since. The Biden administration’s last minute push to follow through on the 2020 campaign to help the industry has become a dud. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has delayed any action until December, guaranteeing zero industry support for 2024. While all this is bad news, the candidates positions involve and change.

In the GOP camp, the presidential nominee has been indifferent toward marijuana. While he doesn’t drink, he seems to flow with popular opinion. He just posted support of recreational legalization in Florida (against his foe DeSantis) and seems to be positive toward the industry. But his team has made it clear cannabis is bad. The GOP Vice President candidate has not be a fan, voted against in the Senate and has been quiet on his stance. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is taking the place of Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) in trying to be a cannabis killer.

The GOP has an “extra man” in Robert Kennedy,Jr who has been positioned as a top tier leader. Kennedy is pro marijuana and recently attacked the Democratic Presidential candidate for her history against marijuana.

In the Democratic team, Biden was very slow in supporting the industry. Aside from pardons, which helped some individuals, it took 3 years for him to make a move. Thousands of small mom and pop businesses in the industry placed hope in him, but have had struggled to pay bills. A seasoned policy lawmaker, it seems Biden’s team played a reschedule date game to see if they can convince younger voters. When it wasn’t needed, the DEA left the cannabis industry to twist in the wind. Harris has changed from being anti-marijuana during her time in California to being seemingly open to increased legalization. She has brought it up in her campaign, but it isn’t a major policy plank.

The only clear record is the Democratic Vice Presidential Tim Walz. As Governor of Minnesota, he has been a clear champion of legal cannabis. He seems to understand the medical benefits, the economic value to states, how it supports mom and pop businesses, can help veterans and reduces crime. He seems to be the only real champion.

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