If you're like most people, you probably don't know much about hemp terpenes. Terpenes are compounds that give plants their characteristic of different smells and flavors. They are also responsible for many of the medical benefits associated with cannabis. In this blog post, we will discuss the top seven hemp terpenes and what they do and the benefits of various terpenes.

Finally, we will answer some frequently asked questions about terpenes so that you have all the information you need.

Table of Contents

• What are terpenes?
• Where do terpenes come from?
• Top 7 Hemp Terpene and their properties
• Benefits of terpenes
• FAQ about Terpenes

• How are Terpenes different from Cannabinoids?
• How do terpenes affect the body?
• Do terpenes get you high?
• How to use terpenes?

What are terpenes?

Cannabis plants contain a wide variety of chemical compounds, including over 100s different compounds known as terpenes. Terpenes are compounds responsible for the distinct aromas of different plants, and can also be found in essential oils. Terpenes are believed to have a variety of medicinal benefits, including reducing swelling and stress.

While each cannabis strain has its unique blend of terpenes, some are more commonly found in the plant.

For example, myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis and is known for its musky scent. Another common terpene is limonene, which gives off a citrusy aroma. In addition to their impact on scent, these terpenes also affect the plant's flavor, color, and even its effects on the human body.

When consumed, these terpenes interact with our body's endocannabinoid system to produce various effects, such as reducing swelling or promoting relaxation. 

As research continues to uncover more about these fascinating compounds, it's clear that cannabis terpenes are complex and important molecules that play a vital role in the plant's overall effects.

Before we jump into the most common terpenes in hemp and their benefits, let's read about where they come from?

Where do terpenes come from?

Terpenes are produced in specialized cells called glandular trichomes, which are found on the surface of leaves, flowers, and fruits. Trichomes are small, mushroom-like structures that cover the surface of the plant. They are responsible for producing a variety of compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes.

The terpene molecules are synthesized from isoprene units, which are derived from the mevalonic acid pathway. Terpenes not only affect the smell of cannabis but also play a role in its flavor and potency. In addition, some terpenes have been shown to have therapeutic effects, making them an important part of the cannabis experience.

As our understanding of cannabis terpenes continues to evolve, we are sure to discover even more uses for these fascinating compounds.

Top 7 Hemp Terpene and their properties

Myrcene is the most abundant terpene in hemp and is also found in mangoes, lemongrass, and thyme. It has a musky, earthy aroma, and is believed to have Antiseptic, Anti-Bacterial, Anti-Fungal properties.

• Boiling point - 168 Degree Celsius
• Aromas - Musky, Herbal, and Citrus
• Effects - Sedating, Relaxing, 
• Commonly Found in - Mango, Thyme, and Lemongrass
• Health Benefits - Antiseptic, Anti-Bacterial, Anti-Fungal
• Popular strains - Grape Eraser, Tropical Blast, Lifter

Limonene is a citrus-scented terpene that is also found in lemons, limes, and oranges. It has been shown to boost energy and mood, as well as have antifungal and antibacterial properties.

• Boiling point - 176 Degree Celsius
• Aromas - Citrus, Lemon, and Orange
• Effects - Elevated Mood, Stress Relief
• Commonly Found in - Citrus Fruits, Juniper, and Peppermint
• Health Benefits - Mood Uplifting, Anti-stress, Anti-Fungal
• Popular strains - Graper Eraser, Blackberry Gleaux, Frosted Lime 

 

Pinene is a pine-scented terpene that is also found in Pine, conifers, and sage. It has been shown to improve memory and focus, as well as have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects.

• Boiling point - 155 Degree Celsius
• Aromas - Sharp, Sweet, and Pine
• Effects - Memory Retention and Alertness
• Commonly Found in - Pine Needles, Conifers, and Sage
• Health Benefits - Reduces Swelling
• Popular strains - Pumpkin Pie, Grapefruit 

 

Caryophyllene is a peppery-scented terpene that is also found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. It is a potent anti-inflammatory agent and has also been shown to potentially reduce stress and manage mood.

• Boiling point - 160 Degree Celsius
• Aromas - Pepper, Woody, Spice
• Commonly Found in - Pepper, Cloves, and Basil
• Health Benefits - Antioxidants, Pain relief Sleep aid
• Popular strains - Pacific Cooler, Electric Buffalo, Bubba Kush

 

Linalool is a floral-scented terpene that is also found in lavender. It has sedative and anxiolytic effects and is also an effective treatment for pain and swelling.

• Boiling point - 198 Degree Celsius
• Aromas - Floral, Citrus, Spice
• Effects - Sedating and Calming
• Commonly Found in - Lavender, Birch, and Rosewood
• Health Benefits - Stress Relief, Anti-stress, Sleep Aid
• Popular strains - Cashmere Kitty, Frosted Limel

 

Humulene is a woody-scented terpene that is also found in hops and coriander. It has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects and is also believed to help suppress appetite.

• Boiling point - 198 Degree Celsius
• Aromas - Woody and Earthy
• Effects - Appetite suppressant
• Commonly Found in - Hope and coriander
• Health Benefits - Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Bacterial, Pain Relief
• Popular strains - Strawberry Cake, Wedding Cake

Terpinolene: The fresh woody aroma of Terpinolene is also found in cumin, tea trees, and apples. It has numerous health benefits and Antibacterial effects and is also believed to help people with sleep disorders

• Boiling point - 186 Degree Celsius
• Aromas - Herbal, Fresh, Woody
• Effects - Relaxing
• Commonly Found in - Cumin, tea tree, apples
• Health Benefits - Sedative, Antibacterial
• Popular strains - Mustard Berry, Space Glue, Sour Suver Haze

These seven  hemp terpenes each have their unique aromas and medicinal benefits. When used together, they can provide an even greater range of therapeutic effects. If you're looking for a natural way to improve your health, consider using products that contain these hemp terpenes.

Benefits of terpenes

In recent years, terpenes have also been studied for their potential medicinal benefits. For example, studies have shown that some terpenes can help to reduce swelling, while others can act as antimicrobial agents. Additionally, terpenes are thought to contribute to the entourage effect, whereby the combined effects of all of the compounds in Cannabis are greater than the sum of their individual effects. 

As research into the medicinal benefits of terpenes continues, more uses will likely be discovered.

Thanks to their wide range of potential benefits, terpenes are likely to play an even more important role in human health in the years to come.

Here are some of the benefits of Terpenes

Reducing Swelling

Swelling is a natural response to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to serious health problems. Terpenes help to keep swelling under control by inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules. They also have analgesic properties, which means they can relieve pain.

Antiviral Properties

Antiviral drug developers are always on the lookout for new antivirals. Many terpenes, such as alpha- and beta-pinene, caryophyllene, camphor, and carvone, have the potential to destroy viruses.

This makes terpene a good substance for people who are susceptible to viral infections.

Mood enhancing Properties

Many antidepressant drugs consist of herbal extracts that contain terpenes. Two of the most popularly used terpenes in antidepressant medications are linalool and beta-pinene.

Antimicrobial effects

Terpenes may have antibacterial effects. Alpha-bisabolol, geraniol, menthol, eucalyptol, and terpinolene are some examples of terpenes that can help destroy or stop the growth of bacteria.

Helps in pain relief

Some cannabis terpenes work similarly to cannabinoids by providing relief from pain, according to researchers. Humulene, geraniol, linalool, and β-pinene are examples of terpenes that may enhance pain relief.

There are a variety of terpenes that offer different benefits. Some terpenes are more well-known than others, but all of them offer something unique. When it comes to finding the right terpene for you, it's important to do some research and figure out what you're looking for.

We recommend you consult with a medical doctor before you start consuming terpenes

We at Hemp Hop are often asked a lot of questions regarding Terpenes.

Here we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions regarding Terpenes.

 

FAQ about Terpenes

How are Terpenes different from Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are a family of chemicals that activate cannabinoid receptors in the body. Some of the most well-known cannabinoids include THC and CBD.

THC activates the receptors in the endocannabinoid system. The high or euphoric effect that people experience when they use cannabis is due to the presence of THC.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is another cannabinoid that is quickly gaining popularity for its medicinal benefits. Although CBD also affects some of the same receptors as THC, it does so differently and produces no or very minute feelings of euphoria.

The cannabis plant also contains terpenes, which are one of the most prevalent compounds in cannabis and many other plants.

Read more about What is CBD?

Most plants and some animal substances have a characteristic fragrance due to the presence of terpenes. Terpenes, however, may also influence the endocannabinoid system in the body in a similar way to cannabinoids. The major distinction is that these chemicals are absorbed and utilized by the body in very distinct ways.

 

How do terpenes affect the body?

Terpenes don't just impact our sense of smell, they affect us in other ways too. They can bind to receptors in the brain, affecting mood and cognition. They can also interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating a variety of functions, including pain and swelling.

They also affect how the body responds to THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. Research suggests that terpenes may play a role in modulating the effects of THC, making some strains more energizing while others are more relaxing. Terpenes may also interact with other compounds in cannabis, such as CBD, to produce unique effects. 

So next time you're choosing a strain, pay attention to the terpene profile to find one that matches your desired effect.

 

Do terpenes get you high?

Although certain terpenes, such as caryophyllene, appear to engage with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, there is no indication that they contribute to intoxication.

Terpenes won't give you the same high as the cannabinoids, but still, some of them are considered psychoactive because they affect your brain.

If you're looking for a specific effect from your cannabis, many experts say you should focus on certain terpene profiles rather than the cannabinoid content. Terpenes are known to “guide” the effects of cannabis.

How to use terpenes?

The most efficient way to utilize terpenes is by consuming them in CBD flower or another full-spectrum CBD product.

When consumed together with cannabinoids, terpenes have the most powerful effects, and it appears that these oils are more effective when combined with cannabinoids.

When used in conjunction with Cannabidiol (CBD), terpenes can help to improve the therapeutic effects of CBD. When selecting a CBD product, it is important to look for one that contains a variety of different terpenes. This will help to ensure that you are getting the most benefit from your CBD treatment.

Check out our collection of CBD oils