Key Takeaways
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In addition to cannabis and hemp plants, terpenes can be found in many herbs, plants, and spices.
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Some of the most common types of terpenes include linalool, alpha-humulene, beta-caryophyllene, beta-myrcene, and alpha-bisabolol.
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Terpenes are believed to contribute to the potential benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) in addition to providing unique benefits.
Cannabis and hemp plants are well known for cannabinoids like CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but there are actually many more components that contribute to CBD’s potential benefits. In addition to containing over 100 naturally-occurring compounds—or cannabinoids—such as CBD and THC, cannabis and hemp plants also contain more than 150 terpenes. But what exactly are terpenes? What are the types of terpenes? If you’ve ever looked at a CBD lab report for a full- or broad-spectrum product, you may have noticed a section of the report specifically for types of terpenes found in the plant. If you’re new to the world of CBD or are just looking to understand more about terpenes, we’ve provided basic information on what they are, their potential benefits, and some of the most common types of terpenes you might see in a CBD lab report.
Terpenes 101
Do you ever wonder what gives lavender plants their sweet, floral aroma? That's terpenes. The main terpene responsible for the lovely smell and taste of lavender is called Linalool. Terpenes are naturally-occurring compounds that are found in herbs, plants, spices, and even some animals. They provide the unique aromas, flavors, and sometimes colors associated with many plants.
In terms of cannabis and hemp, terpenes are the reason that some strains smell and taste different from others. They are believed to contribute to CBD’s potential benefits, such as reducing mild anxiety, alleviating everyday aches and pains, and promoting restful sleep, in addition to providing their own potential benefits.
Terpenes are also thought to contribute to the entourage effect—the thought that multiple cannabinoids and terpenes work together to improve the overall effectiveness of CBD.
Types of Terpenes
Some of the most common terpenes you’ll find in full- and broad-spectrum CBD products include linalool, alpha-humulene, beta-caryophyllene, beta-myrcene, and alpha-bisabolol.
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Linalool: Also found in lavender, mint, coriander, and cinnamon, linalool is a type of terpene that is largely responsible for the floral and slightly spicy aroma and flavor in cannabis. Linalool is known for its calming, mood-altering, and sedative effects on the body.
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Alpha-Humulene: Alpha-humulene—known for its woody, earthy, and spicy aromatic notes—is found in cannabis, sage, clove, and black pepper. Like many other terpenes found in cannabis plants, it’s believed to help fight infection and reduce the normal inflammatory response, contributing to CBD’s potential to reduce everyday aches and pains.
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Beta-Caryophyllene: In addition to cannabis plants, beta-caryophyllene can be found in cinnamon, black pepper, oregano, basil, and rosemary. Beta-caryophyllene is believed to be the only terpene that directly interacts with the endocannabinoid system—it can bind to endocannabinoid type II (CB2) receptors and contribute to reducing minor aches and pains.
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Beta-Myrcene: Beta-myrcene is the most abundant terpene in cannabis. Beyond cannabis, beta-myrcene is found in mangos, lemongrass, and hops and is responsible for the earthy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. Like many other terpenes, beta-myrcene may reduce inflammation and help manage mild aches and pains.
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Alpha-Bisabolol: Also referred to as levomenol, alpha-bisabolol is found in cannabis plants as well as chamomile flowers. It’s known for its pleasant floral aroma and flavor in addition to its potential to fight infection and reduce inflammation.
Do All CBD Products Contain Terpenes?
While hemp and cannabis plants naturally contain many terpenes, not all CBD products will. Hemp- or cannabis-derived full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD products will contain terpenes. Full-spectrum CBD products retain all naturally-occurring compounds from the plant, including all cannabinoids like CBD and THC in addition to terpenes. Broad-spectrum CBD products retain all compounds except for THC.
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At Feals, we’re dedicated to providing you with a better way to feel better. Our full-spectrum CBD oil and CBD mints are made with only the purest ingredients and are designed to help you find balance and feel at your best.
If you’re new to CBD or are looking to learn more about the types of terpenes and how they contribute to the potential benefits of CBD, our CX team would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
