What are terpenes and why are they important?
Terpenes are the part of any plant that give it a unique scent and flavor. For example, the unique scent of lavender brings a sense of calm, or the unique scent and flavor of citrus, making us feel energized.
More than just aromatherapy, terpenes provide protection for plants in nature. These distinct scents and flavors of plants and fruits attract pollinators and repel predators. Some terpenes even have strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties, protecting the plant from potential pathogens.
Terpenes serve a variety of functions in a wide range of industries:
- They create pleasant fragrances in perfumes, soaps and cleaning products.
- They provide distinct flavors in herbs and spices for cooking and baking
- They provide anti-inflammatory , analgesic and anti-anxiety properties for alternative medicine use..
- They work synergistically with cannabinoids to enhance therapeutic effects.
By understanding the terpene profile of a cannabis strain, you can choose one that aligns with your desired effects or potential health benefits.
Aroma and Flavor: Terpenes contribute to the overall sensory experience and can greatly influence personal preferences. Whether you prefer citrusy, piney, earthy, or floral notes, terpenes determine the unique scent and taste of cannabis.
Entourage Effect: Terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, to enhance their effects. Different terpenes may interact with cannabinoids to produce various effects, such as relaxation, focus, or uplifted mood.
By exploring different terpene profiles, you can find strains that align with your specific preferences and needs such as desired effects, flavor preferences, and potential therapeutic benefits.
This is most applicable if you’re utilizing flower to vape, smoke or infuse. However, some of the newer gummies and edibles on the market are promoting the terpenes used as consumers’ knowledge becomes more sophisticated.
TERPENES, FITNESS & NUTRITION:
While terpenes are primarily known for their aromatic properties, they may also offer various benefits related to fitness and nutrition. Here are some major terpenes and their potential benefits in these areas:
Pinene: Known for its piney aroma, pinene may have bronchodilator properties, which could help improve respiratory function during exercise. It may also have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially aiding in post-workout recovery.
- Strains high in pinene that would enhance your workout and recovery include: Lavender Haze, Jack Herer, Lemon Pepper
Limonene: With a citrusy scent, limonene is believed to have mood-enhancing properties. It may help reduce stress and anxiety, which can be beneficial for mental well-being during workouts.
- Strains high in limonene that will help motivate you to workout and reduce stress that might lead to overconsumption and food noise include: Sour Diesel, Kush Mintz, Mac 1, and Dosidos.
Myrcene: Myrcene, found in hops and mangoes, is known for its relaxing effects. It may help calm the mind and body, making it useful for promoting relaxation and recovery after intense physical activity.
- Strains high in myrcene that will help with exercise recovery include Godfather OG, Blue Dream and White Widow.
Caryophyllene: This terpene, found in black pepper and cloves, is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce exercise-induced inflammation and support muscle recovery.
- Strains high in caryophyllene that will help you speed recovery post exercise include: Northern Lights, Girl Scout Cookies, Bubba Kush, Wedding Cake.
Terpinolene: Terpinolene, found in nutmeg and apples, has a sedative effect and may promote relaxation. It could be beneficial for post-workout recovery and sleep quality.
- Strains high in terpinolene that will help bring you calm and rest after exercise include Durban Poison, Super Lemon Haze, and Trainwreck.
Linalool: Linalool, commonly found in lavender, has calming and stress-relieving properties. It may help reduce exercise-induced cortisol levels and promote a sense of relaxation.
- Strains high in linalool that will help you recover faster after your exercise and stay calm through life’s stressors include Red Haze, Xena, Chem Dawg, and Amnesia Haze.
Humulene: Humulene, found in hops and basil, has potential appetite-suppressing effects. It may aid in weight management and control cravings, supporting overall fitness goals.
- Strains that will help you fight cravings and reduce food noise include: Candyland, Death Star, Sour Diesel, Girl Scout Cookies, Super Sour Diesel and Sour Kush.
Ocimene: Ocimene, present in mint and basil, has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory effects. It may help reduce exercise-induced inflammation and support recovery.
- Strains that will help you reduce soreness and recover faster include: Pink Lemonade, Pineapple Upside Down Cake, and Pure Pineapple Express
It’s important to note that the benefits of terpenes related to fitness and nutrition are still being researched, and individual experiences may vary. In my program CannaFit, I help you select the right strain, type and dosage of cannabis to achieve your desired goals. As research continues to uncover the potential benefits of terpenes, their significance in our everyday lives becomes increasingly evident. Whether it’s energizing, stress reducing, or speeding recovery, the therapeutic benefits of terpenes offer exciting possibilities for the future.
If you’re interested in more personalized information or want to explore this topic further, feel free to reach out to me directly at Beth@Cannafitnessnutrition.com.
You can discover more about my comprehensive 12 week program, CannaFit, which helps you integrate cannabis as a tool into your fitness and nutrition to overcome obstacles such as stress or emotional eating at www.cannafitnessnutrition.com.
