Terpenes: What Are They + Their Benefits and Effects

When you experience the captivating scent of an herb, flower or plant you are experiencing the magical aromatic molecules called terpenes. Terpenes are what give individual herbs, flowers and fruits their unique fragrance and taste and are also responsible for the aroma-therapy benefits of essential oils. The cannabis sativa plant, including the hemp variety, is estimated to have between 80 to 200+ distinct terpenes. Let’s explore the basics of what terpenes are as well as their benefits and therapeutic effects on human health and well being.

What Exactly Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are organic aromatic compounds made of hydrogen and carbon (hydrocarbons) found in most plants, trees, fruits and even some insects and animals. They are the source of the distinct aromas and flavors of the individual plants and are the organic molecules that are the basic constituents of essential oils. Terpenes play a role in protecting the plant itself from predators and disease as well as attracting pollinators.

Terpenes have been widely researched by the scientific community and have been proven to be safe due to a very low toxicity. Many terpenes have beneficial biological activities and have been used extensively by the pharmaceutical industry in the development of terpene-based drugs that constitute billions of dollars in worldwide sales. Terpenes are also used in many cosmetic products as well as for food additives.  

In the natural health industry, the many therapeutic properties of terpenes are utilized in the form of essential oils for aromatherapy as well as infusing various terpenes into many forms of natural health and beauty products. 

The Benefits and Effects of Hemp Terpenes

In the hemp plant, the terpenes are produced and secreted by trichomes, the tiny, sticky translucent resin glands that also produce cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC. Each strain of hemp flower is differentiated by the ratio of their cannabinoid and terpene content profile that are responsible for its unique aroma and flavor as well as the strength of effects and benefits. The botanical synergy of the cannabinoid and terpene profile, known as the entourage effect, play a pivotal role in the enhancement of the therapeutic benefits and effects of CBD hemp flower and Full Spectrum CBD products. 

The two major types of hemp strains are sativa and indica. The combinations of the cannabinoid and terpene compounds determine the overall effects of each strain. The most commonly associated effects of these two strain types are:

Sativa: known for producing an elevated, energizing ‘mind effect’ that also delivers a feeling of calm and stress reduction. Sativa dominant strains promote productive, creative activity like music, dancing and art or outdoor activities. It is also a popular strain for work-days due to its clear-headed feeling of elevation that brightens up your experience of even the most mundane daily tasks.

Indica strains are mostly preferred for those times that you just want to chill. Indica strains produce a deeply relaxing effect that promotes feelings of inner and physical release and calm. Indica is the perfect end of day strain that allows you to slip into a restful night’s sleep.

The unique terpene and cannabinoid combinations present in the various sativa and indica hemp strains provide a profile of exclusive desired effects, benefits and experience. You can explore the individual combinations of terpenes and cannabinoids in each cultivated strain to discover the different possibilities of aromas, flavors, effects and benefits that suit your desired experience.

At Organic Green Roots we provide a clear guide to the unique combinations of terpenes and cannabinoids along with the aromas, flavors and effects of each of our strains. We invite you to browse through our collection of pure USDA Certified Organic Hemp Flower strains to find the perfect terpene aroma and effect for your individual preferences and needs. Also check out our new High Potency Hemp Infusions which feature extra terpene infused hemp flowers. 

And don’t forget to share your experiences in the comment section below or drop us a line. Our Organic Green Roots community of hemp lovers and first time users benefit by hearing about your experiences with various strains and products that might help them refine their choices. We all would love to hear from you!