Delta 8 THC has gained a lot of popularity lately because of its legal status (Farm Bill 2018), unique psychoactive effects, and several health benefits. Delta 8 THC is one of the 100+ cannabinoids found in hemp plants. The compound is known for its milder psychoactive effects compared to Delta 9 THC, making it a popular option for those who do not desire the intense ‘high’.
With its growing popularity and increase in consumption, people are starting to realize its essentiality in their daily life as it helps people concentrate, relax, feel focused, and lower anxiety. If you are a regular Delta 8 products user then we guess you might have heard of terpenes as well. If not, then we will explore terpenes and how terpenes and Delta 8 go hand in hand.
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What are Terpenes?
Have you ever imagined how mangoes have a fruity aroma? How do cloves have a spicy scent? Where do pine trees get their fresh smell from? Terpenes are a class of organic compounds found in plants, including cannabis and hemp. They are aromatic chemicals responsible for the flavor and aroma of plants, hemp, pine, and lavender. There are over 200+ terpenes in the world and each terpene has its own unique aroma and flavour. Some terpenes have therapeutic benefits such as anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, while other terpenes may have synergistic effects.
How Do Terpenes Work?
When we consume terpenes, they interact with our endocannabinoid system which regulates the body’s many physiologicalcal processes such as mood, pain, and appetite reception. Each terpene has its unique chemical structure which decides how it interacts with the body’s ECS(Endocannabinoid System). For example, Myrcene is a terpene considered to have potential mind-relaxing and sedative effects.
Read More: The Role of Cannabinoids in the Endocannabinoid System
Why do we add Delta 8 and Terpenes?
Delta 8 THC can be consumed in several ways including Delta 8 gummies/delta 8 Edibles, disposable vapes, vape cartridges, tinctures, delta 8 oils, and more. These products are man-made and contain flavors and aromas. Without terpenes, it’s very difficult to have any flavor or aroma. However, it’s not necessary to add terpenes in delta-8 products since terpenes have flavors along with many medicinal properties as we had discussed earlier in this post.
How do terpenes and Delta 8 THC work together?
When cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC and terpenes are combined together, they can produce what we know is the entourage effect. They can work together synergistically to produce more potent and beneficial effects than if used individually.
For example, Delta 8 THC individually produces mind-relaxing and euphoric effects which can complement the effects of some terpenes like limonene and pinene, which are considered to have mood-enhancing and energizing effects. Here are some therapeutic effects that these compounds produce when used together:
- Pain Relief: Some terpenes such as caryophyllene and myrcene have pain-relieving properties.
- Neuroprotective: A combination of Delta 8 THC and pinene or myrcene can have neuroprotective properties.
- Reduces anxiety and depression: Some terpenes such as linalool and limonene have mood-lifting properties whereas Delta-8 THC has anxiolytic properties. If combined together can reduce anxiety and depression.
- Anti-inflammatory: Delta-8 THC has anti-inflammatory properties and some terpenes, such as beta-caryophyllene and humulene also have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Appetite Stimulation: Delta8 THC, when combined with terpenes such as humbleness and caryophyllene can have potential appetite-stimulation effects which enhance appetite.
Along with the potential therapeutic benefits, terpenes can also improve the taste and aroma of delta-8 THC products, making them more enjoyable to consume. For example, limonene is a terpene found in various citrus fruits. It can provide a citrusy flavor and aroma.
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Types of Terpenes
As mentioned, there are over 200+ terpenes, each has its own unique flavors, aromas, and chemical structure. Let’s explore the most common terpenes found in hemp:
- Humulene: This terpene has a woody and earthy aroma and has anti-inflammatory and appetite-stimulating properties.
- Limonene: Citrusy Aroma which is found in citrus fruits has potential energizing effects.
- Myrcene: This is one of the most abundant terpenes in hemp plants and has an earthy, musky aroma. Myrcene has potential sedative and relaxing effects.
- Pinene: This terpene has a piney aroma and has potential energizing and focus-enhancing effects.
- Beta-caryophyllene: This terpene has a peppery, spicy aroma and the terpene is also found in pepper and clove. Beta-caryophyllene has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
- Linalool: Linalool has a floral aroma and is found in lavender and other plants. This terpene also has mind-relaxing, stress-reducing, anti-anxiety, and sedative effects.
- Terpinolene: This terpene has a woody, piney aroma found in cumin and other plants. Terpinolene has sedative effects along with potential antioxidant properties.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This terpene has a spicy, woody aroma and has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Norilodol: This terpene has a woody, floral aroma found in Jasmin, tea trees,s, and other plants. Norilodol has mind-relaxing and sedative effects and may also have anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties.
- Geraniol: This terpene has a sweet, floral aroma found in roses, lemongrass, and other plants. Geraniol has pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and may also have anti-cancer properties.
Read More: How to Know when your Delta-8 Disposable is done?
Do D8 GAS Delta 8 Products Contain Terpenes?
Yes, all of our Delta-8 THC products include vape cartridges, disposables, and gummies contain terpenes. We strive to deliver quality and keep things natural. At D8 Gas, We carry top-notch quality D8 Products(terpenes included). If you are unsure about the terpene profile of any of the products, do reach out to our excellent customer support.