How To Harness The Therapeutic Potential Of Terpenes

If you’re new to the wide world of aromatic terpenes, let me introduce you. Terpenes are compounds present in all sorts of plants, including cannabis.

Many consumers can recognize certain strains just based on their terpene profile. The dead giveaway is the strain’s unique aroma, emitting scents reminiscent of distinct plants, fruit, and vegetables. These aromatic terpenes aren’t just present in cannabis but in any natural plant, fruit, or vegetable with a distinctive aroma.

Take lemons, for example. The main terpene is limonene. When it comes to softer aromas like lavender, the main terpene is linalool. Turns out, terpenes have their own therapeutic benefits as well. Great for anxiety, mood elevation, and general relaxation, we’ve listed the 5 most common ways to use terpenes and harness their full potential.

The most obvious way to use terpenes is by smoking or vaping cannabis. As mentioned, terpenes are naturally occurring in cannabis and hemp plants, so smoking or vaping them is an excellent way to experience their therapeutic properties.

By inhaling them, they promote almost instant effects. Their aromas also lend themselves to the flavor of the smoke or vapor, providing a pleasant experience on the palate. Most cannabis users adore terpenes not just for their aromas but for relaxation, stress relief, and mood elevation.

Yes, terpenes can also be present in various edibles and beverages. Even if they’re not infused with cannabis, terpenes can be added to various dishes and drinks to improve their flavor while also promoting beneficial effects.

As mentioned, terpenes are present in all sorts of plants, especially herbs. Adding them to dishes or beverages for garnish is a great way to experience their therapeutic properties.

If you have essential oils, you’re one step ahead. Essential oils are exactly that, oils that are extracted from various aromatic plants like lavender, rosemary, eucalyptus, lemongrass, etc.

Using these essential oils for aromatherapy is one of the easiest ways to harness the therapeutic potential of terpenes. That’s because your oils are loaded with them! The aroma emitted from each oil is the result of terpenes. When inhaled, they can elevate the mood, promote relaxation, and generate a sense of well-being.

Terpenes don’t just promote therapeutic benefits when inhaled but also when applied directly to the skin. While you can use essential oils for this, there are many skincare products on the market already containing them.

Here’s a tip: look for products that are marketed as “naturally fragrant” or “no artificial fragrances.” That means no artificial fragrances have been added. Instead, a naturally fragrant product will most likely have terpenes. When applied directly to the skin, terpenes can relieve pain, soothe irritation, and reduce inflammation.

Would it surprise you that terpenes are also sold in supplement form? I was surprised to see them at my local drugstore, inspiring me to write this brief guide. Terpene supplements either come in the form of a pure terpene blend or mixed with other beneficial compounds like amino acids.

When taken in supplement form, their therapeutic properties take a tad longer to kick in, roughly 1 to 2 hours. However, their benefits also last longer, so taking a terpene supplement in the morning is an excellent way to maintain a good mood and general well-being throughout the day.