All About Terpenes
IMPORTANT INFO
What are Terpenes?
Harnessing the Power of Plants to Enrich the Human Experience
Terpenes are organic compounds produced by a variety of plants, known primarily for their strong aromatic properties. In essence, these compounds form the basis of plant scents and flavors, contributing to the unique qualities of herbs, flowers, and fruits. Beyond their olfactory appeal, terpenes play essential roles in nature, aiding in the protection of plants by deterring herbivores and attracting pollinators. The rich diversity of terpenes enhances our experience with nature, providing both aesthetic beauty and ecological significance.
What are Terpenes used for?
Research into terpenes has revealed that these compounds may offer various therapeutic benefits for human health. Different types of terpenes possess distinct properties that can impact mood, stress levels, and wellness. For example, limonene, found in citrus fruits, is known for its uplifting qualities, while linalool, present in lavender, is often associated with calming effects. As science continues to explore the synergy between terpenes and human health, there is growing interest in harnessing their potential as natural remedies to enrich our overall experience.
Benefits of Terpenes
Chances are, you’ve already experienced the therapeutic benefits of terpenes in nature. Think of the sense of uplifting calm you feel while walking through a pine forest. It’s due in part to the fact that terpenes comprise the majority of the forest atmosphere. What you may not realize is that the benefits of inhaling the molecules go beyond relaxation.
The Entourage Effect
Terpenes are known for contributing to a phenomenon of amplified therapeutic benefit called “the entourage effect.” Simply put, when terpenes are combined with another phytochemical (or advantageous plant chemical), the benefit of each element is enhanced. This can be consciously used to optimize the benefit of individual terpenes or of other functional plants such as cannabis.
Terpenes have become popular in recent years because of the evolving cannabis industry and research that shows how terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids increasing the absorption via cannabinoid receptors in humans and animals, however terpenes are not a cannabis product or exclusive to cannabis use or applications.
Links
https://byjus.com/chemistry/steam-distillation/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steam_distillation
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/steam-distillation
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/hydrodistillation
https://www.albertvieille.com/en/glossary/hydrodistillation/
https://www.medicalterpenes.com/blog/terpene-extraction-methods/
EO’s: essential oils
Volatile:
1a: characterized by or subject to rapid or unexpected change
3: readily vaporizable at a relatively low temperature