What is CBD? Terpenes and their effects.
What is CBD? What is under these three letters? How does this organic chemical found in cannabis affect our body, and how do we use it properly? Can we extract even more benefits for the human body with the right combination of it with other compounds? What are terpenes and how do they affect our body? You will get the answers to these questions by reading our latest blog below.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is an organic chemical compound derived from a variety of hemp called Cannabis sativa L. Together with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), they are the most popular and widespread cannabinoids, but they are characterized by a completely different action. THC is primarily responsible for the psychoactive stimulation of the brain and leads to the release of dopamine, which in turn leads to a euphoric mood. CBD, on the other hand, is the complete opposite of THC, because it does not have an intoxicating effect, and moreover, it is able to positively affect the basic human life functions, or eliminate all kinds of diseases, which I will talk about later in the text. As a curiosity, it is worth paying attention to a dependency – THC cannot work without CBD, while CBD is fully self-sufficient and we will experience its effects also without the participation of another cannabinoid.
It is worth noting, however, – these two cannabinoids, when properly used, can be very effective in the fight against many serious diseases in humans, which is already applicable and confirmed in global medicine. Agonists of the endocannabinoid system are effective in treating diseases such as Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, AIDS and some stages of epilepsy. Unfortunately, the form in which cannabis has been used, and which is currently the most common form of using this plant, has meant that for many people it is still associated with a drug whose purpose is delay and focus on psychoactive effects.
CBD, the endocannabinoid system and its effect on the human body
As research shows, CBD also has a positive effect on the endocannabinoid system, which is found in the body of all mammals, including humans. This system is responsible for the proper functioning of many human physiological processes, it regulates, among others. energy management, neurohormonal and neuroimmune connections, motor activity, mood, control of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, as well as sleep quality.
The endoannabinoid system itself consists of CB1 and CB2 receptors, of which CB1 is located primarily in the brain, adipose tissue, skeletal muscles and the liver. CB2, on the other hand, is mainly found in cells of the immune system. As it is easy to see, the system in question is found in almost every part of our body, so its proper functioning is necessary to maintain the proper condition of each organ of the human body.
The proper functioning of the endocannabinoid system is therefore essential for the human body to function properly and for all its basic life functions to remain undisturbed. CBD supplementation has a direct impact on the proper functioning of this system, which is why it is recommended not only for those who face a health problem, but for everyone who wants to take care of their health and improve the quality of their life.
Terpenes and their synergy with cannabinoids
Terpenes in the simplest language can be described as essential oils, they occur as natural chemical compounds in plants and flowers, so far over 20,000 have been identified. terpenes, while others are constantly being defined. More than 140 of them are also found in hemp plants and, with proper use, they have a very positive effect on the human body. Terpebnes, despite not belonging to the group of cannabinoids, are secreted by the so-called trichomes, which are the same resin glands that are responsible for the production of cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids. These compounds are characterized, above all, by very distinctive and characteristic aromas, the most intense of which are emitted by pollinated female hemp flowers (Cannabis sativa L.), the vast spectrum of which is found in the trichomes. Terpenes, in addition to the presence in hemp plants, are also found in many cultivated plants known to us, such as: hops, cinnamon, lemon peel, lavender and peppermint.
Unfortunately, as is the case with CBD, terpenes are often overlooked and underestimated by being paired with the plant’s psychoactive cannabinoids and used for non-medical purposes. The development of research and continuous exploration of knowledge about these naturally occurring chemical compounds allows us to see how important and helpful in improving the condition of the body can be isolated and properly combined with cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids. As it was shown in the work entitled “The Entourage Effect”, cannabidiol and other cannabinoids are able to show enhanced therapeutic and health effects by acting in synergy with other chemical compounds, such as terpenes.
Terpenes also help the plant itself, because they have a so-called defense function for it, as plants, due to their inability to move, are unable to escape when threatened, it is terpenes that effectively deter predators. However, this has the other side as well, as the terpenes and the compounds they secrete are able to bring insects to pollinate the plant, which then translates into their reproduction.
Terpenes and their types :
Mircen
it is the most common terpene in cannabis, it is as much as 80-90% in cannabis and approx. 20% in cannabis. According to various claims, it is responsible for increasing the permeability of cell membranes, which makes it easier for other terpenes and cannabinoids to access the cells of the human body. It is characterized by a calming and relaxing effect, it is definitely helpful in the treatment of sleep disorders and pains, among others. muscle. It is also found in hops, lime and mango.
Limonene
it is almost as popular as Mircen, often used in conjunction with other terpenes to improve their absorption levels. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-stress properties, which is why it is used in the treatment of depression, chronic pain, inflammation and cancer. It is distinguished by a citrus scent, it is also found in citrus fruits and mint.
Terpineol
is definitely one of the most multidimensional cannabis terpenes, it is characterized primarily by a sense of calmness and a hypnotic effect, and also has a high antibacterial effect. It is used in the case of a lack of motivation and mood, and in the prevention of neoplastic changes. Its aroma is dominated by floral and herbal notes, resulting in a very fresh and refreshing aroma.
Beta-Caryophyllene
is a terpene directly related to CB2 receptors which leads to a direct influence on the organism’s cannabinoid signaling. As this receptor plays a key role in reducing inflammation, alleviating neuropathic pain and is associated with anxiety and depression, Beta-Caryophyllene is able to alleviate nerve inflammation and be helpful in the treatment of emotional disorders. It is a terpene that definitely leads to a feeling of peace and tranquility.
Humulen
Its most interesting properties include, first of all, the prevention of the multiplication of cancer cells, besides, it is characterized by antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which allows it to act like an antibiotic. The use also leads to an increase in strength, among others. sexual. The aroma is dominated by a strong spicy and earthy smell, its presence can also be observed, among others. in hops, coriander or cloves.
Alpha-pinene
it participates in the creation of CB2 cannabinoid receptors, it accounts for 10 to 20% of cannabis. It supports concentration, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and interestingly, it is able to combat some of the negative effects of taking THC. It is characterized by a fresh pine-coniferous aroma. in sage, parsley, rosemary or pine needles.
Linalool
leads to the stimulation of the neurotransmitters glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid, its effect is felt primarily in the sense of peace and alleviation of pain, which is why it is ideal for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, depression and joint pain. It is characterized by floral aromas, and its presence can be observed, among others. in lavender.
Bisabolol
this terpene has high antioxidant properties, which protects against damage caused by free radicals. Its action makes it ideal for preventing skin irritation, accelerating wound healing, and preventing or combating infections. In cosmetics, it is used to improve the condition of the skin and restore its firmness. It is characterized by a floral aroma, it is present, among others. in chamomile.
Caryophyllene
belongs to the group of bicyclic sesquiterpenes, it is characterized by a complex structure consisting of humulene, alpha-caryophyllene and beta-caryophyllene. Its main properties include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, pain relieving properties and a positive effect on improving mood. It is effectively used in the treatment of depression, anxiety and all kinds of pain. Its aroma is dominated by a peppery character, it is present, among others, by in cloves, cinnamon, rosemary or pepper.
Nerolidol
It is characterized by a multitude of therapeutic effects, but the most important are anti-ulcer, anti-fungal, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. In addition to reducing inflammation, it shows great potential in the effective treatmesnt of cancer. The aroma is dominated by a floral-citrus aroma, nerolidol is also found in jasmine, ginger or lemongrass.
Karen
Its action is invaluable for medicine, because karen has extraordinary abilities leading to bone healing, e.g. after fractures, because it effectively stimulates their growth. In addition, it positively influences the improvement of memory, and therefore it is effectively used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, its action is also beneficial for people suffering from diseases of the skeletal system. Its aroma includes lemon, musk and pine, it is also found naturally in English herb, rosemary and basil.
Ocymen
it is one of the most common terpene in nature, interestingly, its smell is able to effectively repel insects. It is mainly characterized by anti-cancer properties. The aroma has a herbal character, it is also found in mint, pepper and parsley.
Anethole
has a high antiparasitic and antifungal activity, therefore it is used primarily to eliminate diseases such as salmonella or parasites. Its aroma is mainly characterized by herbs and flowers, it is also found in fennel and magnolia.
In summary, terpenes have a direct and quite significant impact on the effectiveness of cannabis-based supplements and products, and they are also a very important factor in the use of medical marijuana and the treatment of diseases associated with it. However, it is very important to properly secrete and synchronize these compounds with other cannabinoids. The spectrum of terpenes found in cannabis is very large, and as I mentioned earlier, we are currently able to extract over 140 of them.
