What is the Entourage Effect? Well, two Israeli scientists coined it to describe something fascinating they’d observed in cannabis. Some compounds found in cannabis have no significant effect on their own, but when combined with other components, can affect the human endocannabinoid system – this is the Entourage Effect. So, when it comes to cannabis use, especially for medical purposes, it’s an essential part of the picture.  Most testing and trials are done on just one component, isolated from the rest of the plant.  In order to work effectively, the best results come from the whole plant, which actually hosts approximately 400 organic compounds.

What are Terpenes?

Quite simply, terpenes are essential oils from plants.  There are over 120 different terpenes that can be found in cannabis plants alone.  In cannabis, they are what provide the variety of smells and tastes that you experience from one strain to the next.  This is key because it opens a near endless number of possible customizations one can apply. The terpenes  present by default will depend on a number of factors.  Maturity, soil conditions, and climate can all affect the production of terpenes within each plant.

Terpenes are key in the “Entourage Effect”.

Combined with the other parts of the cannabis plant, these terpenes can heighten the effect of the other components that make up cannabis products.  Certain terpenes also have the ability to diminish certain effects.  Terpenes themselves have individual healing properties that will add to the benefits of consuming the plant.  They are heavily involved in producing the “entourage effect”.

Terpenes are Good For You!

As previously mentioned, terpenes have medical value on their own.  The concentrated fragrances found in essential oils are thanks to terpenes.  Terpenes are found in all plants, not just cannabis.

A-Pinene, the most common terpene in the world.  It gives off the smell of rosemary or pine needles and is known for its anti-cancerous, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties.  It also has a reputation for helping brain function and improved breathing.

Linalool is a terpene found in spices and flowers.  Lavender and coriander give off a sweet floral scent due to linalool, and when you’re looking for natural remedy for stress relief, you will most likely find an aromatherapy product that features it, too.  Its common uses include relief from depression, anxiety, and stress.  It’s also known to help with epilepsy, inflammation, and has anti-cancerous properties.

Myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis.  In fact, Myrcene alone sometimes makes up half of the terpene content in a cannabis plant.  It can emit a citrus or tropical smell, but has an earthy base smell of spices and cloves.  It’s the terpene that causes you to relax when you ingest cannabis.  It can help with brain function, and has anti-oxidant powers.  It’s an anti-carcinogenic terpene, and can  grant relief from pain, insomnia, and stress.

I Use CBD Oil… How Can I Take Advantage of Terpenes?

With those healing properties in mind, consider the possibility of easily adding them to your cannabis. Terpenes are such an important component in medicinal cannabis use for this very reason.  Standard CBD oil will not contain THC or terpenes, meaning that you are completely free to customize your experience if you purchase terpenes separately.  You’ll simply need to drop a very miniscule amount into your CBD oil, seal, and shake. Terpenes will boost the effectiveness when combined with your oil, and they will give off a delightful scent as well.  Start having fun with terpenes today!