As we have seen, medical marijuana has proven itself to be an effective treatment for dozens of different illnesses on many occasions. The specific chemical makeup of the marijuana plant is what makes it such an incredible medicine.
Cannabis contains components called cannabinoids, specifically THC and CBD. While these two things are mainly responsible for the healing benefits of cannabis, there are a few other key parts to the marijuana flower. The role of terpenes in medical marijuana is more significant than you may think.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic oils that are secreted by the same glands that produce THC and CBD. They are not only found in cannabis, but many other plants, fruits and flowers, as well. If you've ever smelled an orange peel or a rose, than you've smelled terpenes. There are over 100 different terpenes in the cannabis plant, but they do more that just give marijuana it’s classic smell.
Why are they so Important?
Terpenes play a vital role in differentiating the effects of various marijuana strains. In fact, they work synergistically with other cannabinoids (mainly THC and CBD) to produce a wide array of effects. Terpenes bind to the same receptors in your body as THC and CBD.
The interesting thing is that in the presence of other cannabinoids, the effect of a specific terpene may change. For example a terpene can be relaxing in the presence of one cannabinoid, but energizing in the presence of another. This means that there is the potential for a plethora of added medical benefits, due to the essentially unlimited combinations of synergistic effects. This is particularly important for growers as they will be able to cultivate more strains to treat symptoms more effectively.
Main Terpenes
Myrcene
Aroma: Musky & Earthy
Vaporizes at: 322 Degrees Fahrenheit
Potential Effects: Sedating & Relaxing
Potential Benefits: Anti-oxidant, Anti-carcinogenic, Anti-Inflammatory, Pain Relief, Muscle Relaxant, Sleep Aid
Limonene
Aroma: Citrus & Lemon
Vaporizes at: 348 Degrees Fahrenheit
Potential Effects: Stress Reliever & a Mood Booster
Potential Benefits: Anti-anxiety, Anti-cancer, Anti-depressant, Anti-fungal, Gastroprotective, Relieves Heartburn.
Pinene
Aroma: Pine
Vaporizes at: 311 Degrees Fahrenheit
Potential Effects: Promotes Creativity, Alertness, Memory Retention, a Sense of Euphoria and Counteracts Some Effects of THC.
Potential Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, Treats Asthma
Linalool
Aroma: Floral & Sweet
Vaporizes at: 388 Degrees Fahrenheit
Potential Effects: Calming, Relaxing, Sedating, & Mood Enhancing
Potential Benefits: Anti-anxiety, Anti-convulsant, Anti-depressant, Anti-acne, Sleep Aid and Slows Neurodegeneration
Caryophyllene
Aroma: Woodsy & Spicy
Vaporizes at: 266 Degrees Fahrenheit
Potential Effects: Stress Relieving
Potential Benefits: Pain Reliever, Anti-Anxiety, Anti-Inflammation, Gastroprotective, Sleep Aid
Things to Keep in Mind
You may be wondering why we’ve included the boiling point of each of the terpenes listed above. Terpenes are highly effective, but can be severely damaged and lose their medical benefits, if overheated. For this reason, you must be very careful when smoking medical marijuana. In order to avoid burning the terpenes, choose a method of use that uses a low heat, like extracts and concentrates. Vaping is also a safe alternative, as you can usually set the heat to a specific degree.
Furthermore, the next time you’re in a dispensary, ask if you can smell a few of the different strains. The scents you’re drawn to may actually help treat your symptoms. In conclusion, the role of terpenes in medical marijuana is vital to its many potential medical benefits.
Are you suffering from symptoms that medical marijuana may be able to treat?
If you're a Florida resident interested in becoming a Marijuana Doctor Patient, call us at (786) 224-4005 or schedule your FREE phone consultation online today!
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