The world is seeing more uses for terpenes, and people are slowly getting to know how they can help in their everyday lives. Read on to know some of the benefits of terpenes to give you an in-depth look.
Terpenes Used for Medicinal Purposes
Terpenes are the natural chemical compounds responsible for the different aromas and tastes found in nature. Terpenes have been used by many for their medicinal properties. They show promise as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, anticonvulsive, antidepressant, anticancer, and more.
As an anti-inflammatory
Some types of terpenes have anti-inflammatory properties, such as linalool. Linalool is a natural compound found in the essential oils of several aromatic plants. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties that exhibit antifungal properties to help with swelling and redness.
As an anticancer
Some terpenes have been found to possess anticancer properties by acting on different stages of tumor development. Some of these phases affected by terpenes are during cell cycle arrest, tumor cell differentiation, late stages, suppression of angiogenesis, and even metastasis.
As an analgesic
In medicine, terpenes have been an alternative to analgesic or pain relief for many years now. CB1 and CB2S receptors are activated upon terpene use, making this possible. The type of terpene can affect the intensity and effectiveness of pain relief. Some variants include pinene and limonene.
Photo by Evelyn Mostrom on Unsplash
How Terpenes Help You Relax
However, apart from the medicinal benefits terpenes have, they have also been highly regarded for their significant effect on our mind and body, helping us relax and alleviate stress. This is because terpenes have unique natural extracts that cause different chemical reactions when exposed to the human body.
These responses can result in various psychological effects, including stress relief, anxiety management, and improved focus. Here are some ways how terpenes affect the body through relaxation.
Anxiety management
Terpenes have been identified as one of the natural treatments that can help with anxiety. This works because certain kinds of terpenes like limonene, myrcene, and pinene can alter the chemical flow within the nervous system, helping to lower both physical and psychological signs of anxiety, such as shaking and muscle tightness.
Stress relief
Studies have shown that terpenes can improve mood by triggering the CB2 receptors, leading to a more relaxed state.
Aromatherapy
Terpenes can be found in different products but more commonly in essential oils. These essential oils enhance the impact of the scent as brought about by terpenes and boost the effects of the products.
Aromatherapy has been constantly used to activate specific brain areas through scent profiles. Some affected areas include your limbic system (emotions) and hypothalamus (hormones), so you’re able to create feel-good chemicals like serotonin.
Focus improvement
It is said that several terpenes can help provide users with improved focus. These include pinene, limonene, and beta-caryophyllene. Limonene, alpha-pinene, and beta-caryophyllene are generally safe for consumption, but you may also find other varieties in food that you eat almost every day. These foods include herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables.
Terpenes for Your Mind and Body
There have been claims to how terpenes work within the body, and with the years of research conducted and more trials underway, terpenes are making a name as a multi-beneficial asset to healthcare today.
From physical to mental and psychological benefits, it’s safe to say that terpenes still have a long way to go, and their full potential is yet to be discovered. Despite the advantages that have been discussed, make sure to take terpenes moderately.
Kalki Henrietta is one of the master flavor chemists at Sauce Terps and Medical Terpenes and is the director of sales and marketing at Sauce Terps and Medical Terpenes. He is also a major contributor to research and development. Amongst creating new and exciting dank strains, he also manages the quality control of the manufacturing process in an ISO 9001:2015 and GMP compliant lab. He enjoys spice and pungent aromas with a heavy nose.
