Terpenes vs Cannabinoids

People often confuse terpenes and cannabinoids because plants like hemp and cannabis contain a large number of them. However, it’s important to note that generally terpenes and cannabinoids are distinct compounds with different roles and effects.

• Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give plants their characteristic smells.  Almost all plants contain terpenes, including our food.  Although, cannabis contains a large amount of terpenes (around 150) that add to its effect on the body, terpenes can also be found throughout nature in other plants. For example, anyone who’s dabbed lavender oil—which contains linalool—behind their ears knows that it can potentially help you relax (see image below).
• Cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, interact directly with your Endocannabinoid System (ECS), producing mood-altering or physical effects.  To learn more about the ECS click here. 

But… one terpene stands out from the crowd, and that’s our beloved Beta-caryophyllene (BCP).  BCP is a unique terpene found in plants such as black pepper, cloves, lavender, hops, hemp and cannabis (it’s actually found in thousands of plants). 

The reason BCP stands out is that even though it is technically a terpene, it acts similarly to cannabinoids. It’s almost like BCP forgets that it’s a terpene and decides to do the job of a cannabinoid 🙂

BCP binds directly to CB2 receptors in the ECS. This makes BCP particularly interesting for its potential therapeutic benefits.  So basically BCP is the only terpene that activates receptors of the ECS, whereas other terpenes are more like building blocks.

While both terpenes and cannabinoids are bioactive, meaning they affect the human body, your body processes them differently. BCP, for instance, can contribute to physical effects such as pain relief and anti-inflammatory responses, similar to CBD found in cannabis. This terpene’s ability to engage with the ECS sets it apart from other terpenes.

In conclusion, terpenes offer more than just mood-boosting and stress-relief benefits. They are now being recognised as an important part of medicine. While most attention has been on cannabis cannabinoids like THC and CBD, new research is showing that terpenes also have significant medicinal potential. As we learn more about them, it’s clear that these aromatic compounds play a powerful role in health and wellness, with BCP as a stand-out hero!

Check out the range of Canna Oils BCP products.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terpene; https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-are-terpenes#terpenes-vs-cannabinoids; https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/terpenes-the-flavors-of-cannabis-aromatherapy; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22963623/

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Disclaimer:  The information in this post is for reference purposes only and not intended to constitute or replace professional medical advice or personal research. Please consult a qualified medical professional before making any changes to your diet, medications or lifestyle. Effects are provided as a guide only.  Statements have not been evaluated by the TGA.