What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that determine the smell of many plants and herbs. Examples include cannabis, cloves, lavender, fresh orange peel, pine, and sage.

In their natural element, terpenes provide plants with protection from animals as well as from infectious germs. They also attract pollinators in some plants. New research also suggests that terpenes may offer health benefits to the human body.

In the manufacturing world, terpenes are isolated to create the flavors and scents of many products including body products, foods, and perfumes.

As mentioned, the cannabis plant contains terpenes and new research suggests they may act on the endocannabinoid system similarly to cannabinoids. According to some research, terpenes may enhance the high a person gets from using cannabis in what is known as the “entourage effect”.

Some of the most well known terpenes include:

Beta-caryophyllene – This terpene can be found in herbs and vegetables such as cloves, black pepper, hops, and rosemary. Beta-caryophyllene could have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties as well as aiding in the management of anxiety and depression.

Beta-pinene – Beta-pinene smells like a coniferous forest and may have anti-cancer and anti-depression properties.

Humulene – This terpene can be found in cloves, ginger, ginseng, and hops. According to one study, humulene may help to prevent allergic reactions as well as asthma. Another study found that humulene may help guard against cancer.

Limonene – this terpene is what gives orange and lemon rinds their citrus smell. According to one study limonene has anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties. Limonene may also protect the body from many disorders and can be taken as a supplement.

Linalool – Found the most in the lavender plant and gives the flower of this plant it’s distinctive scent. Linalool is what has a calming effect on people who smell lavender. According to one study, Linalool may have anti-anxiety, anti-cancer, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and neuroprotective properties.

Myrcene – Myrcene is found in hops, lemongrass, mangoes, and thyme as well as the flowers of the cannabis plant. According to studies, Myrcene may have anti-fungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and sedating properties.

Other common terpenes include geraniol, ocimene, nerolidol, phytol, and terpinolene.

At Citrus Depot, our d-limonene orange terpenes are produced with the highest quality and purity standards and are 100% natural. It’s wide range of uses includes the manufacturing and extraction of vaping oils, edibles, and other medical marijuana and CBD industries.

For more information about our orange terpenes or other natural citrus products, visit our online store.