Terpenes in Cannabis: More than just fragrances – What the entourage effect really means

Cannabis is more than just THC and CBD. The plant contains a variety of chemical compounds that work together to produce its unique effects. A key factor here are terpenes —aromatic compounds that are not only responsible for the characteristic aroma and taste, but also play an important role in cannabis's medicinal properties.

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are natural compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They give the plant its distinctive aroma—from citrus notes to earthy tones to spicy flavors. But terpenes do much more than just smell good. In combination with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, they contribute significantly to the medicinal efficacy of cannabis. This occurs through the so-called entourage effect .

The Entourage Effect: More than the sum of its parts

The entourage effect describes the synergy between cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD) and terpenes. Rather than acting in isolation, these compounds work together to produce a more enhanced medicinal effect. This means that a strain with a specific ratio of terpenes to cannabinoids may offer more therapeutic benefits than isolated compounds.

For example, limonene, a terpene found in citrus fruits, is known for its mood-enhancing and stress-reducing effects. Combined with CBD, which has a calming effect, the combination of these compounds can provide greater anxiety relief than either compound could alone.

What terpenes are there and what are they used for?

Here is an overview of some of the most important terpenes in cannabis and their medicinal effects:

1. Limonen

   • Fragrance: Citrus
   • Effect: Mood-enhancing, anxiety-relieving
   • Use: Ideal for stress, depression and anxiety

2. Myrcen

   • Fragrance: Earthy, musky
   • Effect: Calming, pain-relieving
   • Use: Helpful for insomnia, inflammation and chronic pain

3. Caryophyllen

   • Fragrance: Spicy, peppery
   • Effect: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic
   • Use: For the treatment of pain and inflammation

4. Linalool

   • Fragrance: Floral, lavender-like
   • Effect: Relaxing, anxiolytic
   • Use: Good for anxiety disorders and to promote sleep

5. Pinene

   • Fragrance: Pine-like
   • Effect: Anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator
   • Use: To support the respiratory tract and in cases of inflammation

New studies and findings on the entourage effect

Research on the entourage effect is still relatively new, but there are already many exciting studies demonstrating how terpenes and cannabinoids interact. A recent study published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology examined the interaction between terpenes and cannabinoids and found that terpenes have the ability to influence the absorption and effects of cannabinoids in the body. This may explain why certain strains are better suited for certain medical conditions.

Another 2021 study shows that terpenes may also play a role in reducing the psychoactive effects of THC. This means medical patients can benefit from the therapeutic advantages of THC without experiencing its strong psychoactive effects.

Conclusion: Terpenes and the Entourage Effect – The Future of Cannabis Medicine

The importance of terpenes in cannabis is increasingly recognized, as they not only influence the aroma and flavor of the plant but also enhance its medicinal effects. Thanks to the entourage effect, we can expect even more specific and individualized cannabis therapies in the future, tailored to the patient's needs.

It remains exciting to see how research develops and what new insights we will gain in the coming years. Until then, it's worth taking a closer look at the different terpenes in cannabis strains to achieve the best therapeutic results.

Have you had any experience with certain terpenes? Which terpene helps you the most? Share your experiences in the comments!