Terpenes are the aromatic compounds found in plants that contribute to the scent and flavor of your CBD product. But they’re more than just a pretty smell; they actually play a pretty major role when it comes to enhancing the effects of CBD, and they can offer their own set of benefits too. Let’s explore how limonene, myrcene, and pinene can all elevate your CBD experience!
What Exactly are Terpenes?
You’ve encountered terpenes countless times without even knowing it. Ever been struck by the sharp, fresh scent of a pine tree? Or the calming floral fragrance of lavender? That’s terpenes at work. These natural aromatic compounds are found in plants, fruits, and herbs, giving them their distinct smells and flavors.
In the world of CBD, terpenes do more than make your oil or gummies smell good—they also enhance the therapeutic properties of CBD. The interaction between CBD and terpenes is often referred to as the entourage effect.
This term describes the way cannabinoids like CBD and terpenes work together to create a more effective result than either compound could achieve on its own. Essentially, the terpenes are CBD’s sidekick, amplifying the benefits and creating a more potent experience.
How Terpenes and Cannabinoids are a Dynamic Duo
While cannabinoids, just like CBD, interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system in order to regulate things like mood, sleep, and pain, terpenes help enhance those effects by making CBD more efficient and bioavailable. You should think of terpenes as CBD’s partner in crime, making sure they can do their job properly.
Certain terpenes can help improve the absorption of CBD into your bloodstream, making the effects more noticeable. Others may have calming or energizing properties of their own, which work in synergy with CBD to give you the results you’re after—be it relaxation, pain relief, or a boost in focus.
The Role of Aromatic Compounds in CBD Products
When you buy a full-spectrum CBD product, you’re getting more than just CBD. You’re also getting a rich mix of aromatic compounds, including terpenes. These compounds don’t just influence the scent and flavor of your product, but they also play a significant role in how it interacts with your body.
While it’s definitely true that CBD alone is beneficial, when it’s paired up with terpenes the effects may be more powerful. This is because terpenes help CBD bind to your endocannabinoid receptors more effectively.
Terpenes and the Entourage Effect
The entourage effect is the reason why people may tend to prefer full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD products over isolates. While CBD isolates contain only pure CBD, full-spectrum products contain a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids—all working together to enhance each other’s effects.
Think of the entourage effect like a symphony. CBD might be the lead instrument, but without the accompanying terpenes and other compounds, you’re missing out on the full experience. Terpenes help fine-tune how CBD interacts with your body, making sure you get the most out of each amount.
Terpenes like myrcene can enhance the permeability of your cell membranes, allowing CBD to be absorbed more quickly and effectively. Others, like pinene, have additional therapeutic effects, such as improving memory retention, which can complement CBD’s ability to calm the mind.
The Common Terpenes You Can Expect to Find in CBD Products (and Their Benefits)
There are hundreds of different terpenes. And yes, each of these do have their own unique benefits. However, when it comes to CBD products, there are certain terpenes that appear more frequently because of the specific effects that they offer. Below is a list of some of the most common terpenes you’re likely to encounter in CBD products and how they enhance your experience.
Limonene
Limonene is known as the “citrus pick-me-up.” You know that refreshing, zesty scent you get when you peel a lemon or orange? Well, that’s limonene, a terpene found in citrus fruits and some strains of hemp. Plus, limonene is known for its uplifting and mood-boosting properties, making it perfect for when you need a little extra energy or a mental reset.
On top of that, when it’s combined with CBD, it actually helps in relieving stress while at the same time still providing some subtle but still noticeable mood lift. Products with limonene tend to have an energizing effect, which makes them great for daytime use when you need to stay sharp and focused.
If you’re using CBD to help manage stress or just need “a little pep in your step,” then you should definitely look for a product with limonene. Basically, you’ll be getting a bright, citrusy scent along with the added benefit of feeling more balanced and clear-headed.
Myrcene
Myrcene is more about calming you rather than pepping you up. You can expect to find these in hops, mangoes, and even in basil too. But myrcene has a more musky, earthy aroma, and it’s actually one of the most common terpenes in hemp. This terpene is known for its sedative properties, making it ideal for winding down in the evening or before bed.
When this gets paired with CBD, myrcene can enhance its ability to help you relax. It’s also been shown to have some potential pain-relieving effects and is anti-inflammatory.
Pinene
If you've ever breathed in the crisp scent of a pine tree, then you’ve definitely experienced pinene. Now, this terpene is found in—- you guessed it— pine trees! It is known for its ability to improve focus and help with mental clarity. So it’s actually a fantastic addition to CBD, especially if you need to use it during the day (like for work or school).
While yes it’s true that CBD is often associated with relaxation, pinene can add a balancing effect by keeping you alert and focused without any of the jitters you might experience from caffeine. Pinene is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects, which could make it a useful terpene for those looking for respiratory support..
Linalool
Linapool is the terpene that is responsible for that soothing, floral aroma that makes lavender such a popular choice in aromatherapy. Lavender is known for being a natural stress reliever, similar to linapool. It’s meant to work with your CBD to create a more calming effect that’s ideally used for unwinding after a long day.
Linalool is often used in CBD products designed for stress relief, sleep, or relaxation. Its anti-anxiety properties make it ideal for those looking for a calming effect without feeling drowsy or sluggish.
With a better understanding of how terpenes interact with CBD, you can be better informed when it comes to making a decision about which types of full-spectrum CBD may be best for the results you are looking for.