Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in the majority of plant life, including fruits, flowers, insects, and spices. Do you know the fresh scent of a pine forest or the zesty smell of a lemon? Those scents come from terpenes. In cannabis, terpenes are the natural compounds that give each strain its unique smell and, to some extent, flavor. There are more than 200 varieties of terpenes in the world, and each one has a distinct aroma and therapeutic properties.
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What Are Terpenes In Delta 8?
You’re likely aware that cannabis is known for producing compounds like CBD and THC. But it doesn’t stop there; the plant also creates terpenes. These substances are behind the different smells and tastes you notice. More than just affecting how things smell or taste, terpenes help determine the way our bodies react to and process the main components found in cannabis.
That said, terpenes are not always a “natural” component in cannabis-derived products. During manufacturing, some manufacturers might keep or re-introduce terpenes to the compound from the original cannabis plants. This is done to increase the product’s flavor and unleash the entourage effect, where cannabinoids and terpenes work together for a more mind-and-body healing experience. Some terpenes even have antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Many businesses in the beauty industry use terpenes to create essential oils, perfumes, bath products, and cleaning solutions. A growing interest in the potential medicinal value of the hemp plants and Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC products has brought terpenes into mainstream conversation and spurred research into its viability as a therapeutic for everything from muscle spasms to mood disorders.
Can Terpenes and Delta-8 THC Help with Chronic Pain?
The phenomenon of “entourage effect” posits that when THC and other cannabinoids (like CBD) and terpenes are consumed together, they produce a synergistic interaction that enhances their individual effects. For example, the terpene myrcene is thought to increase THC’s sedative effects, making certain cannabis strains more relaxing. Conversely, a terpene like pinene might counteract some of THC’s psychoactivity (known as “high”), which means it may help you feel more alert and clear-headed experience.
If you’re considering Delta-8 THC and its terpenes for chronic pain, the answer is: it might help, but it may depend on the type of pain you are experiencing. Neuropathic pain (pain coming from nerve damage) might respond better to certain terpenes (like Beta-Caryophyllene) known for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects; while musculoskeletal pain could potentially be alleviated by terpenes (like Linalool) with muscle relaxant properties.
Keep in mind that just as people respond differently to medications, the same goes for Delta-8 THC and terpenes. What works for one person’s pain might not work for another’s. Also, the specific effects you might experience can depend heavily on the quality of the Delta-8 product and its specific terpene profile. Not all products are created equal, and there’s variability in the types and concentrations of terpenes.
We always recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before trying Delta-8 THC or any cannabis product. They can offer guidance based on your specific condition, other treatments you’re undergoing, and legal considerations in your area.
Terpenes Known For Pain-Relieving Properties
There is both research and anecdotal evidence that suggest some terpenes may help with specific types of pain or health issues. While more clinical studies are still needed to fully understand these relationships, the existing data provides a basis for the potential therapeutic uses of terpenes. If you are suffering from chronic or acute pain, look for Delta-8 THC products with the following terpenes (this information should be listed on the label):
Myrcene
Pain Type/Health Issue: General pain, inflammation, insomnia.
Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis and is known for its sedative effects. If you struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep because of chronic pain, myrcene may be able to help.
Beta-Caryophyllene
Pain Type/Health Issue: Inflammatory pain, neuropathic pain.
Beta-caryophyllene is unique because it can directly interact with CB2 receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system, which play a key role in managing pain and inflammation associated with neuropathy.
Limonene
Pain Type/Health Issue: Anxiety, depression, stress-related conditions.
While not directly a pain reliever, limonene has mood-elevating properties and has been used in aromatherapy for stress relief. Many users report that it affects their pain perception by alleviating anxiety, thus preventing the pain from exacerbating.
Pinene
Pain Type/Health Issue: Inflammatory pain, respiratory issues.
Pinene has anti-inflammatory properties and has been studied for its effect on conditions like arthritis and Crohn’s disease. It’s also known for its broncho-dilatory effects, which means it can help respiratory conditions.
Linalool
Pain Type/Health Issue: Neuropathic pain, anxiety, depression.
Linalool is known for its sedative and anti-anxiety effects. Some studies have found it helpful for treating neuropathic pain. It is also used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Humulene
Pain Type/Health Issue: Inflammatory pain, appetite suppression.
Known for its earthy, woody aroma, humulene is also found in hops and coriander. It has been studied for its benefits for managing conditions characterized by inflammation. Additionally, unlike some cannabinoids that can stimulate appetite, humulene has been associated with appetite suppression.
Terpinolene
Pain Type/Health Issue: Antioxidant properties, sedation.
Terpinolene has a complex scent profile, with piney, floral, herbaceous, and citrus notes. It has been researched for its antioxidant properties and may have sedative effects when consumed in higher concentrations.
Ocimene
Pain Type/Health Issue: Anti-inflammatory, antiviral.
Ocimene has a sweet, herbal, and woody aroma. It’s noted for its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. While direct studies on ocimene’s effects on pain are limited, its anti-inflammatory properties suggest it could play a role in pain management for conditions where inflammation is a primary issue.
Eucalyptol (1,8-Cineole)
Pain Type/Health Issue: Respiratory issues, analgesic.
Eucalyptol, which has a fresh, eucalyptus-like scent, is known for its ability to aid in breathing and is often found in cough suppressants and ointments. There is some evidence suggesting its analgesic properties, so it may be able to help alleviate pain. Its anti-inflammatory effects could also help with respiratory conditions and related pain.
Geraniol
Pain Type/Health Issue: Neuroprotectant, anti-inflammatory.
Geraniol emits a sweet, floral aroma similar to roses. By potentially reducing inflammation, geraniol could help alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and lower the risk of some chronic diseases.
Do All Delta-8 Products Have Terpenes?
In many cases, delta-8 products get their terpenes added back in after they are made from CBD. This means the aromatic terpenes you might recognize from cannabis, such as myrcene, limonene, and linalool, are not usually in the mix because of the way delta-8 is produced from hemp. Instead, they are reintroduced later.
The reason terpenes are added to delta-8 products is that they enhance the experience. For instance, myrcene has an earthy scent and is appreciated for reducing anxiety. Limonene, on the other hand, brings a citrus fragrance and is valued for its ability to fight inflammation. These benefits complement delta-8’s energizing and mildly psychoactive properties well.
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Do Laughing Buddha Products Contain Terpenes?
Absolutely, every Delta-8 THC vape cartridge and hemp flower we offer is packed with terpenes. We stick to natural ingredients, and terpenes do a lot more than just add taste. Being a fundamental component of the hemp plant and bringing their own benefits, we believe it’s important to include them in both our pure and hybrid Delta 8 products. Wondering about hybrid Delta 8? It’s essentially a blend of different cannabis strains (both Indica and Sativa strains of a cannabis plant).
To give you peace of mind, we provide the latest lab reports for each batch we produce, showcasing the terpene profiles so you know exactly what you are getting when you choose Laughing Buddha.