What are the benefits of terpenes? While there is approximately 200 variations of terpenes found in plants, there are several that are common and cultivated more frequently due to their benefits: Limonene – this terpene is mainly found in citrus and conifers. It is known for its energizing effects and is known to alleviate depression symptoms. Myrcene – this is the most common terpene which can also be found in chamomile and the candeia tree. This terpene boasts sedative-like effects which can help reduce stress and anxiety. It can also reduce resistance in the blood brain barrier, which allows for an easier passage of other beneficial chemicals. Beta-Caryophyllene – this terpene has a woody, peppery distinction which can be found in black pepper, rosemary and cloves. It is known to protect the gastrointestinal system and has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Alpha-Pinene – this terpene is most commonly found in many coniferous trees like pines, but can also be found in rosemary. Not only is this terpene energizing, it can combat cognition and memory issues by increasing focus. Linalool – this terpene is floral and spicy, found in many flowers and spices like lavendar, cinnamon and ylang ylang. This terpene is anti-microbial, reduces anxiety and depression and has anti-epileptic properties. Terpenes are healthy for people as well as plants. A September 2011 report by Dr. Ethan Russo in the British Journal of Pharmacology discussed the wide ranging therapeutic attributes of terpenoids. Beta-caryophyllene, for example, is a sesquiterpene found in the essential oil of black pepper, oregano, and other edible herbs, as well as in various cannabis strains and in many green, leafy vegetables. It is gastro-protective, good for treating certain ulcers, and offers great promise as a therapeutic compound for inflammatory conditions and auto-immune disorders because it binds directly to the peripheral cannabinoid receptor known as “CB2.” In 2008, the Swiss scientist Jürg Gertsch documented beta-caryophyllene’s binding affinity for the CB2 receptor and described it as “a dietary cannabinoid.” It is the only terpenoid known to directly activate a cannabinoid receptor. It’s one of the reasons why green, leafy vegetables are so healthy to eat. Terpenoids and cannabinoids both increase blood flow, enhance cortical activity, and kill respiratory pathogens, including MRSA, the antibiotic-resistant bacteria that in recent years has claimed the lives of tens of thousands of Americans. Dr. Russo’s article reports that cannabinoid-terpenoid interactions “could produce synergy with respect to treatment of pain, inflammation, depression, anxiety, addiction, epilepsy, cancer, fungal and bacterial infections.” The role of terpenes. Various researchers have emphasized the pharmacological importance of terpenes.

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