Cannabinoids and terpenes are routinely referred to by both cannabis consumers and sellers nationwide. They are two of the hundreds of chemicals generally found in cannabis plants and products. These chemicals are all fairly similar in terms of structure, but their effects on a human body are entirely different.

Whether you are a long-time cannabis user or new to the field, it is important to assuage the curiosities and questions you might have about this wonderful plant and its many chemicals. Read on to learn more.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are chemicals in hemp and cannabis plants that interact with receptors in the human body known as the cannabinoid receptors, which are part of the cannabinoid system. As the cannabinoids interact with this system, different reactions are produced all throughout the body.

Cannabinoids comprise about 60% of the chemicals found in cannabis plants, and they form in trichomes or resin glands on the leaves and flowers of hemp and cannabis plants.

Two of the most common types of cannabinoids are THC and CBD. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the chemical responsible for the boost in energy after consuming cannabis products. It is also responsible for the familiar high feeling cannabis users enjoy.

CBD (cannabidiol) and its homologs, such as cannabidivarin (CBD-V), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabinol (CBN), are responsible for the relaxing and calming effects associated to cannabis products, such as our very own CBD teas.

Terpenes

Terpenes are compounds in cannabis plants and products known for their fragrant aromas. They are generally found in a wide array of plants, naturally occurring in their essential oils.

In the cannabis plant, there are roughly 200 terpenes that are secreted in the plant’s resin glands. While THC and CBD are responsible for the effects on a human body, terpenes are responsible for the flavour. Terpenes also help facilitate the passage of cannabinoids into the bloodstream.

Some of the most common terpenes in cannabis are the following:

  • Myrcene, which makes up 6% of cannabis. It is also found in citrus fruits, lemongrass, bay leaves, eucalyptus, and mango. It is characterised by its earthy, musky scent that can be likened to cloves.
  • Limonene. This is the second most abundant terpene in cannabis. Its aroma is very citrusy, and it is found in oranges, limes, and lemons. It is also one of the most easily absorbed chemicals into the bloodstream, as a simple whiff can do the trick.
  • Pinene, which is also found in pine trees. It is what gives pine trees their distinctive smell. This chemical is also commonly used in Chinese herbal medicine.
  • Caryophyllene is a terpene also found in black pepper, cloves, cinnamon leaves, and Thai basil. It is known for its spicy, peppery, and woody flavours.
  • Phellandrene is a chemical common to both cannabis and eucalyptus. Its aroma can be described as similar to peppermint with a slight note of citrus. It is also found in ginger parsley, cinnamon, dill, and garlic.

These chemicals are also key to making CBD teas delicious and aromatic.

In conclusion

Hemp and cannabis are wonderful and incredibly useful plants, and many of their uses are due to the plethora of cannabinoids and terpenes present. All of these chemicals act in tandem with each other, creating that unique and wonderful experience cannabis users are familiar with.

While studies are still in the progress of showing how these chemicals can help the body, great headway has already been made with regards to their benefits, both medicinal and recreational.

If you’re looking for a supplier of cannabis products, send us a message at Quintessential Tips. We have a great selection of CBD teas and the like for whatever you need.