If you’re a regular CBD user, you’ll likely have heard the word ‘terpenes’ at some point. And even if you haven’t, you’re sure to have come across them as a listed ingredient in a CBD oil or beauty product.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about terpenes, the different types and how they can impact your CBD experience.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes - or “terps” for short - are a large and diverse group of naturally-occurring compounds found in the oils of many plant species. They are commonly associated with cannabis due to the high concentration found in the plant.
These compounds are responsible for the distinct aromas and flavors in plants including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. Terpenes are also thought to produce a range of unique therapeutic qualities and medicinal benefits. For example, some have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, while others may help to reduce anxiety.
Terpenes have a unique effect on the endocannabinoid system (ECS), with each type capable of offering a different sensory experience. While more research is needed, early signs suggest that additional terpenes in CBD products can enhance the health benefits of CBD.
What Are Terpenes in CBD?
If you come across terpenes in CBD, this means that these CBD products naturally contain terpenes, or have had terpenes added to them.
CBD Oil 8% by Dutch Natural Healing is based on our proven effective and 100% organic hemp extract. Includes aromatic terpenes which give the oil a pleasant taste and support the product’s entourage effect.
Terpenes can be added to a variety of different CBD products including tinctures, edibles, capsules, vapes and drinks. In some products, they are already naturally present but it’s likely there will not be enough to fully experience the benefits.
In the cannabis industry, terpenes are widely researched for their therapeutic properties and are thought to play a crucial role in the plant's effects on the body. Some studies have suggested that naturally-occurring terpenes and cannabinoids can create synergy and enhance the overall effects of CBD.
How Do Terpenes Work?
Terpenes bind to specific receptors in the brain and body, such as the GABA and serotonin receptors. Depending on the type of terpene and the receptors they interact with, this can have a range of effects on mood, cognition, sleep, and other bodily systems.
When terpenes and cannabinoids are combined to create what’s known as the “entourage effect”, it’s possible that CBD can function more efficiently. A 2018 review supports this claim, stating that participants with epilepsy who took a CBD-rich extract had improved symptoms and fewer side effects than those who took purified CBD.
What is the “Entourage Effect”?
The “entourage effect” is where the combination of different chemical compounds, such as terpenes and cannabinoids, work together to produce a stronger effect than one compound alone.
This implies that the therapeutic benefits of cannabis are not solely attributable to CBD or THC, but also to other compounds that are present in the plant. This effect is an important concept in the development of cannabis products, suggesting that whole-plant extracts may be more effective than isolates or single compounds.
How Are Terpenes Different From Cannabinoids?
Terpenes and cannabinoids are both types of compounds found in the cannabis plant. However, there are significant differences in their molecular and chemical structures that influence how they interact with our bodies.
Cannabinoids
These compounds interact with our body’s endocannabinoid receptors, influencing the ECS and creating numerous therapeutic effects. Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the most commonly known cannabinoids, but there are over 100 more found in the cannabis plant.
Terpenes
This organic compound is responsible for the aromatic strains of cannabis. It also modulates cannabinoids (CBD and THC) to help produce therapeutic effects.
Are Terpenes in CBD Better?
With many studies showing that terpenes can enhance the effects of CBD, it’s clear that CBD with terpenes can be a better choice than CBD alone. Each terpene delivers unique effects to boost the benefits of CBD. CBD with terpenes outperforms CBD oil when it comes to aroma, effectiveness, flavor, distinctiveness and the range of effects.
Can I Add Terpenes To CBD?
While terpenes are present in most CBD products, with the exception of CBD isolate, they are not always in high volumes as they are often lost during the extraction process. As a result, many products have terpenes reintroduced during the production process to complement and improve the effects of the CBD.
It’s important to look for CBD products that have natural terpenes added during the product formulation process. Terpenes can be volatile and most start to evaporate at 100F, so it’s essential to buy from reputable producers that have added terpenes at the right time. It’s not recommended to add terpenes to CBD products at home after you have bought them.
What are the Different Types of Terpenes and Their Benefits?
There are hundreds of different terpenes, each with their own chemical structure and unique therapeutic properties. Here are some of the most common types:
Limonene - monoterpene
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AROMA: Fruity - Citrus |
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FOUND IN: Essential oils of citrus fruit rinds (lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruit) and ginger. Also found in; dill, bergamot, caraway, juniper, rosemary, peppermint oils and some strains of cannabis. |
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POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Anti-inflammatory benefits Supports gastrointestinal health |
Pinene - monoterpene
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AROMA: Pine - Wood - Earthy |
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FOUND IN: Conifers, eucalyptus, sage, rosemary and some citrus fruits. |
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POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Antimicrobial properties |
Myrcene - monoterpene
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AROMA: Herbaceous - Musky - Earthy |
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FOUND IN: Verbena or thyme, but can be extracted from mangoes, hops, lemongrass & bay leaves. |
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POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Analgesic properties |
Linalool - terpene alcohol
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AROMA: Floral - Lavender |
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FOUND IN: Lavender, jasmine, rosewood, cinnamon, mint and some strains of cannabis. |
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POTENTIAL BENEFITS: |
Caryophyllene - sesquiterpene
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AROMA: Spicy - Woody - Peppery |
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FOUND IN: Black pepper, cloves, fig, oregano and some strains of cannabis. |
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POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Helps to reduce inflammation and nerve pain |
Humulene - sesquiterpene
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AROMA: Earthy - Woody - Spicy |
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FOUND IN: Hops, Balsam Fir, Clove, Ginger, Sage and some strains of cannabis. |
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POTENTIAL BENEFITS: |
Ocimene - monoterpene
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AROMA: Floral - Sweet - Citrus |
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FOUND IN: Basil, hops, pepper, bergamot & some strains of cannabis. |
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POTENTIAL BENEFITS: |
Terpinolene - monoterpene
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AROMA: Pine - Floral - Herbaceous |
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FOUND IN: Cumin, parsnip, rosemary, sage and some strains of cannabis |
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POTENTIAL BENEFITS: |
How Terpenes Differ in Different Types of CBD
Just as each terpene is different, there are different types of CBD to consider too. Each type will contain different terpenes, or even no terpenes at all.
CBD Isolate
This type of CBD contains only CBD. This means it doesn’t have any terpenes because they have been lost during the extraction process, so CBD isolate cannot produce the entourage effect.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Several terpenes are present in broad-spectrum CBD. The most common types are pinene, linalool, limonene and myrcene, among others.
This type of CBD does not contain any THC as it has a slightly different extraction process to full-spectrum CBD. It is a great choice for people seeking the full benefits of CBD.
Full-Spectrum CBD
Like broad-spectrum, full-spectrum CBD contains a vast selection of different terpenes, including humulene, limonene, pinene and myrcene.
The difference between the two types is that full-spectrum products contain small amounts of THC - the ingredient responsible for psychoactive effects. Full-spectrum CBD is usually minimally processed, which means it often has higher concentrations of terpenes.
Learn the difference between CBD products and the synergistic relationship between active CBD ingredients.
What Should I Consider Before Buying?
Research is key when it comes to choosing the right product. We always recommend you do your due diligence before making any purchases, and consider the following factors.
Quality of CBD
Look for products that use high-quality CBD, making sure the CBD is extracted from organic hemp plants. Third-party lab tests also help to determine the quality of your product, confirming the purity and potency.
Reputable suppliers will also provide a COA (Certificate of Analysis) which provides a full breakdown of the contents.
Terpene Profile
Different terpenes have different effects on the body, so look for products with profiles that align with your desired effects. For example, if you're looking for a calming effect, you might want a product with myrcene or linalool terpenes.
Extraction Method
The method used to extract the CBD and terpenes from the hemp plant can affect the quality and potency of the final product. Look for products that use CO2 extraction as this is considered the safest and most efficient method of extraction.
Brand Reputation
Look for a brand that has positive customer reviews and a good track record of selling high-quality CBD products. Reputable brands will always make sure the COAs and lab testing results are easy to find.
Where Can I Buy CBD With Terpenes?
There are many reputable brands offering CBD with terpenes on the market today, but it’s essential to do your research before purchasing. Dutch Natural Healing has gradually developed into one of the best and most trusted ISO certified CBD producers in the world, providing our CBD products to over 50 global brands.
We’re dedicated to producing premium quality CBD products that deliver a variety of physical and mental health benefits, whilst being completely safe to use. Our products contain various cannabinoids and terpenes, resulting in an unmatched entourage effect for greater benefits.
Pinene - monoterpene
The Bottom Line
Terpenes in CBD have plenty to offer - more than simply tastes and aromas. As natural components of hemp, terpenes play an important role in delivering and magnifying the therapeutic benefits offered by CBD.
Although, the presence and composition of terpenes can vary depending on several factors, all of which will produce different effects when working with other compounds in the cannabis plant. The varying factors to consider include the strain of cannabis, the growing conditions and the extraction method.
So, whether terpenes are naturally occurring or have been added, using CBD with terpenes can give the user a more complete experience. Terpene CBD products provide all the benefits of both CBD and terpenes, delivering the best possible effects. Our CBDactive+water-soluble CBD products include various cannabinoids and terpenes, resulting in complete absorption and an effective entourage effect.
