What are Terpenes, and Why Do They Matter?

What are Terpenes, and Why Do They Matter?

Here at Proleve, we’ve introduced a new collection of gummies that incorporate terpenes for targeted purposes. Terpenes are naturally-occurring botanicals found in hemp, and alongside cannabinoids, they can influence the overall experience you get from a cannabinoid product. No matter which terpene gummy you choose, you’ll still  get to enjoy the therapeutic impact of our active cannabinoids. But which terpene and strain you should choose will depend on what you’re looking for from your cannabinoid experience--whether you’re seeking a more relaxing outcome, or whether you’re seeking a more energizing, invigorating experience. 

That’s just a fraction of what terpenes can do when added to hemp products. But you may be wondering: what exactly are terpenes? How do they impact hemp products? And which terpene gummies are right for you?

Here at Proleve, we’ve got the answers to all of the most common questions about terpenes. Read on to learn everything you need to know about these empowering botanical compounds.

Terpenes & Strains

Generally speaking, our terpene gummies can be classified in terms of energizing or sedating effects based on the type of cannabis strain they’re modeled after. 

There are three different types of cannabis strains:

Indicas,  a name given to cannabis strains containing high amounts of myrcene and other sedating terpenes. These strains are characteristically relaxing, and are associated with effects that are felt more in the body than in the mind. Indicas are great for relaxation, sleep, stress reduction, and discomfort. If indica terpenes sound right for you, check out our calming Watermelon Zkittlez gummies.

Sativas are cannabis strains with higher concentrations of energizing terpenes. The opposite of indicas, sativas are generally uplifting, invigorating, and deliver effects that are felt cerebrally. This makes sativas great for daytime use, energy, exercise, creativity, socializing, and other occasions where you need a lift. Together with Barney’s Botanicals, Proleve offers various sativas including Orange Dreamsicle and Pineapple Express.

Hybrids strike a balanced sweet spot between Indicas and Sativas. These strains have a balanced ratio of energizing and relaxing terpenes, and are perfect for those seeking something in-between the indica and sativa sides of the spectrum. Barney’s Botanicals offers hybrid gummies including Blue Dream and Cherry Pie.

Terpenes' Therapeutic Potential

The hemp plant produces over one hundred terpenes, each with its own, specific set of therapeutic properties. Since we can’t cover all terpenes in hemp in just one article, we’ve focused, for now, on the terpenes that play a major role in determining the effects of our infused gummies--and in determining the effects of cannabis in general.

Below, we cover the research-backed effects of six major cannabis terpenes: myrcene, limonene, pinene, caryophyllene, humulene, and linalool. These are some of the most common  dominant terpenes in popular cannabis strains, and in Barney’s Botanicals terpene-infused gummies.

Myrcene

Myrcene is one of the most prevalent terpenes in cannabis, especially in indica strains. Myrcene, which is known for its relaxing and sedating properties, is responsible for indicas’ calming, soothing effects. Sativas, on the other hand, are more energizing because they have lower myrcene levels.

Myrcene combats anxiety, while soothing the body as a muscle relaxant. Studies suggest that this terpene could soothe inflammation and pain, especially in the tissues, muscles, and joints. Like many terpenes, myrcene is also a powerful antioxidant.

Limonene

Limonene is an uplifting, energizing terpene found in many sativa strains. Limonene is thought to support mental health by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain, and may help replenish the body’s supply of mood-boosting, stress-reducing neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. Limonene’s ability to boost dopamine, in particular, can make strains with this terpene especially helpful for focus, mood, cognition, and productivity. In addition, researchers suggest that limonene could offer longer term wellness support as an antioxidant and neuroprotectant.

Limonene is also suggested to combat inflammation and discomfort, and some researchers suggest that it could be particularly helpful for GI issues caused by inflammation in the digestive tract.

Pinene 

Another uplifting, mood-boosting terpene, pinene can contribute to the invigorating, energizing effects of certain cannabis strains. In studies, pinene has been suggested to improve alertness, focus, and mood, while boosting cognition, memory and overall mental clarity. In addition to sharpening the mind, pinene may also support mental health by quelling feelings of anxiety and lifting low moods. Pinene is characteristically energetic, and has been suggested to help ward off physical and mental fatigue. And like many other cannabis terpenes, pinene is said to function as a neuroprotective and antioxidant.

Caryophyllene 

Caryophyllene is a terpene known to reduce pain and inflammation, while supporting mental health and cognitive function. Research shows that caryophyllene may help to combat issues with mood and anxiety, while soothing the mind by regulating the way that the brain reacts to stress. Caryophyllene also contributes to physical well-being by reducing inflammation, easing sore joints from arthritis, and reducing nerve pain. Research shows that caryophyllene can also support long-term health as an antioxidant with neuroprotective properties.

Humulene 

A more relaxing terpene, humulene is found in hops as well as cannabis plants. Humulene is a potent anti-inflammatory, and it can also suppress appetite--an point of appeal for individuals seeking the psychoactivity of THC without the associated “munchies.” This energizing terpene invigorates the sinuses, while strengthening the body’s defenses as an antibacterial and antifungal agent.

Linalool

Found in lavender and indica strains, linalool is known for its soothing, relaxing properties. This calming terpene is thought to help with sleep, stress, and mood. Meanwhile, linalool works to soothe the body by reducing pain and inflammation. In addition, linalool has been shown to boost the immune system, strengthening the body’s defenses against threats.

How Terpenes Impact The Way You Experience Our Gummies

  • Orange Dreamsicle is a sativa strain, meaning that these gummies are filled with energizing, uplifting terpenes.
  • Blue Dream. Blue Dream is a euphoric hybrid that combines indica’s soothing effects for the body with sativa’s positive impact on mood, creativity, and stress. 
  • Watermelon Zkittles uses a terpene profile derived from this calming indica strain. If you’re seeking full relaxation in body and mind, stress reduction, and help sleeping, these may be the right gummies (and terpenes) for you. 
  • Cherry Pie, a hybrid known to induce feelings of happiness and creativity. These THC gummies are perfect for boosting mood and achieving mental clarity.
  • Pineapple Express, a sativa strain known for its uplifting, energizing properties. These gummies are a perfect go-to if you’re in search of a mood and energy boost.