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May 2, 2023 0 Comments

Mapping Terpenes and THC to the Human Body

Cannabis is a powerful plant with numerous potential therapeutic benefits. Recently, technological advances have allowed us to tap into the power of cannabis more precisely than ever before by mapping terpenes and THC to the human body. In this article, we’ll explore the scientific evidence for the health benefits of cannabis, various technologies being used to map terpenes and THC, and what the future holds for cannabis technology. By leveraging technology, we can unlock the power of cannabis in ways never before possible and understand its potential impact on our health.

Understanding the Basics of Terpenes and THC

Cannabis is a powerful plant with numerous potential therapeutic benefits, and two of its main components are terpenes and THC. It’s important to understand the differences between these two compounds to unlock the power of cannabis through technology.

Terpenes are organic compounds found in plants, including cannabis, that give them their distinct aromas and flavors. Some common terpenes found in cannabis plants include myrcene (a musky scent), pinene (a pine scent), and caryophyllene (a spicy pepper scent). Not only do terpenes provide pleasant smells, and tastes for the user, but they also have therapeutic effects such as stress relief, anti-inflammatory properties, mood elevation, and so on.

15 Most Common Terpenes in Cannabis and What They Do

Myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis and can make up as much as 65% of the total terpene profile in some strains. Myrcene terpenes contain an earthy and musky aroma similar to cloves. Depending on the strain, they can also have hints of fruity or citrusy flavors.

Strains with high levels of myrcene are usually indicas with sedative effects, making it a popular choice for those who use cannabis for pain relief or sleep. Myrcene is also helpful in reducing inflammation and chronic pain, which is why it’s frequently used as a supplement during cancer treatments.

Some of the cannabis strains that are rich in myrcene are: Mango Kush – 0.5-0.8%; Skunk XL – 0.5-0.7%; and White Widow – 0.4-0.7%

Limonene is a secondary terpene, meaning it presents in smaller amounts than primary terpenes like myrcene, and caryophyllene. Limonene is a citrusy terpene found in cannabis, lemons, oranges, limes, and grapefruits. It is responsible for the characteristic citrusy smell and flavor profile found in many cannabis strains.

Limonene has many potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatoryantioxidantantifungal and antibacterial properties. One study found that limonene plays a role in reducing tumor size. The pungent terpene also carries mental health benefits and is thought to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Strains that have “lemon” or “sour” in their name are usually rich in limonene and may include: Sour Diesel – 0.4-1.0%; Super Lemon Haze – 0.6-0.9%; Durban Poison – 0.5-1.5%; and Jack Herer – 0.4-1.2%

Linalool has spicy and floral notes responsible for the recognizable marijuana smell. Linalool is also present in lavender, mint, cinnamon, and coriander. Interestingly, just like these aromatic herbs, Linalool has powerful relaxing properties and offers a variety of health benefits.

Due to its anti-inflammatoryanalgesic, and anxiolytic properties, patients suffering from arthritis, depression, seizures, insomnia, and cancer have all found aid in this unique terpene.

If you’re looking for cannabis strains with linalool, you should look for strains with high levels of CBD. Some well-known linalool strains are: Amnesia Haze – 0.3-1.1%; Lavender – 0.3-1.1%; LA Confidential – 0.3-2.0%; and Pink Kush – 0.2-1.0%

Caryophyllene is a spicy and peppery terpene found in cannabis, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and spices like oregano, basil, and rosemary. It is abundant in strains high in THC and acts as a cannabinoid, binding directly to the body’s CB2 receptors.

These CB2 receptors are primarily located in the immune system and regulate inflammation and pain, making caryophyllene a key ingredient in anti-inflammatory topicals and creams. Additionally, studies have shown it is helpful for arthritis and Crohn’s disease and may also help treat alcoholism and the depression-like symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal.

You can benefit from caryophyllene’s terpene effects by consuming strains like Girl Scout Cookies – 0.5-1.4%; Sour Diesel – 0.3-0.9%; and Super Silver Haze – 0.3-0.6%

Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene These two cannabis terpenes get their name from their pine-like aroma and flavor. They exist in strains with high THC levels. Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene are also heavily concentrated in pine trees (hence the name), rosemary, orange peels, basil, and parsley.

Like many others, pinene terpenes have an anti-inflammatory effect on humans and are often used to treat arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. They also carry bronchodilator properties, making them helpful in treating respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis.

You can find pinene in strains like: Jack Herer – (0.5-1.5%) A-pinene, (0.2-0.8%) B-pinene; Blue Dream – (0.3-1.2%) A-pinene, (0.1-0.8%) B-pinene; and Dutch Treat – (0.2-0.8%) A-pinene, (0.1-0.5%) B-pinene

Alpha-bisabolol, also known as levomenol and bisabolol, has a pleasant floral smell and can be found in several plants, including cannabis, chamomile flowers, and Candeia trees. This terpene rose to popularity through the cosmetics industry, but recent studies on cannabis terpenes suggest alpha-bisabolol is packed with medicinal benefits.

One of the fascinating things about alpha-bisabolol is that it has been found to enhance the absorption of other compounds when applied topically. Alpha-bisabolol has also been demonstrated to be effective in treating bacterial infections and wounds and is an excellent antioxidant with anti-irritation and analgesic properties.

If you’re interested in trying a strain high in alpha-bisabolol, check out: Harle-Tsu – 0.1-0.3%; Pink Kush – 0.1-0.2%; OG Shark – 0.1-0.2%

Eucalyptol, also known as cineole, is the primary terpene of the eucalyptus tree. This cannabis terp has a refreshing minty smell and is known to have a cooling effect on the body. Eucalyptol is found in marijuana strains with high THC, but most do not contain large amounts. It usually makes up around 0.06% of a strain’s complete terpene profile.

When it comes to eucalyptol’s medical value, eucalyptol relieves pain and slows the growth of bacteria and fungus. Additionally, its cooling effects can help reduce inflammation and promote relaxation. Although it is still in the early stages of research, this terpene has demonstrated the ability to enhance memory and cognitive energy, making it promising for Alzheimer’s patients.

Eucalyptol is highly concentrated in the following strains: Super Lemon Haze – 0.1-0.4%; Girl Scout Cookies – 0.1-0.3%; Headband – 0.1-0.3%

Trans-nerolidol is a secondary terpene found primarily in flowers. It is a natural component of essential oils derived from plants like jasmine, lemongrass, and tea tree oil. The smell of trans-nerolidol is a mixture of rose, citrus, and apples with a hint of wood.

Trans-nerolidol is best known for its antiparasiticantioxidantantifungalanticancer, and antimicrobial properties. Because of its widespread occurrence in nature, trans-nerolidol is a vital terpene with many potential uses in various industries, including fragrance, cosmetics, and medicine.

For those looking to reap some of the befits of trans-nerolidol, check out these strains: Sweet Skunk – 0.1-0.3%; Island Sweet Skunk – 0.1-0.2%; and Skywalker OG – 0.1-0.2%

Humulene was the first terpene found in hops. It’s also commonly found in ginseng, sage, cloves, black pepper, and cannabis. Humulene contains earthy and woody notes with a hint of spice and, like most terpenes, carries potential medical and therapeutic properties.

Early research has shown humulene to be anti-proliferative, meaning it prevents cancer cells from growing. It has also been demonstrated as an effective tool in suppressing appetite, making it a potential weight loss aid. Furthermore, like many other cannabis terpenes mentioned above, humulene reduces inflammation, relieves pain, and fights bacterial infections.

Some strains that are high in humulene cannabis terps are: Sour Diesel – 0.5-1.5%; Girl Scout Cookies – 0.5-1%; Headband – 0.5-1%; and White Widow – 0.2-1%

Delta 3 Carene This terpene is present in plants like rosemary, basil, bell peppers, cedar, and pine. Delta-3-carene has a sweet, earthy aroma and a flavor reminiscent of pine and cedarwood with subtle hints of citrus and spice. When consumed, it can leave a refreshing and cooling sensation in the mouth, making it an enjoyable experience for many.

Regarding the medical side of Delta-3-carene, research suggests it may aid in healing broken bones, promote bone growth and improve cognitive function. Delta-3-carene gives hope to patients who have osteoporosis, arthritis and even fibromyalgia.

Incorporating Delta-3-carene into your cannabis consumption can provide a delightful and flavorful experience while offering various health benefits. Some strains high in delta-3-carene include: Arjan’s Ultra Haze – 0.1-0.4%; Bubba Kush – 0.1-0.3%; and Amnesia Haze – 0.1-0.3%

Camphene is a terpene that offers potential health benefits with a delightful and unique flavor experience. It has a sweet and earthy aroma, with subtle hints of pine and musk reminiscent of a forest walk on a crisp autumn day.

The flavor of camphene is similar, with a slightly herbal and floral note that will leave your taste buds watering. Camphene is often mistaken for myrcene which carries the trademark marijuana smell as most of us know it. Interestingly, camphene is often synthesized from pinene, which may explain their similar flavor profile and health benefits.

From the medical point of view, camphene has excellent potential. When mixed with vitamin C, it becomes a powerful antioxidant. It’s widely used in conventional medicine as a topical for skin issues like eczema and psoriasis, but its greatest potential lies in its ability to lower the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, further reducing a consumer’s risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Camphene is present in the following cannabis strains: Ghost OG – 0.3-0.5%; Strawberry Banana – 0.1-0.3%; Mendocino Purps – 0.1-0.2%

Borneol terpenes are locked and loaded with refreshing, minty, herbal scents and flavors. This terpene is common in herbs like rosemary, mint, and camphor. On average, most cannabis strains contain anywhere from 0.01% to .5% borneol. However, some strains (such as Kali Mist) can hold up to 1% of borneol.

Thanks to its citrusy nature, borneol is an excellent natural insect repellent, which can help prevent diseases often passed by ticks, fleas and mosquitoes. Borneol is also widely used in Chinese traditional medicine and acupuncture. But its most impressive potential is killing breast cancer cells.

If you want to try out the borneol terpene effects, here are some cannabis strains high in borneol: Kali Mist – 0.5-1.0%; Hindu Kush – 0.2-0.4%; Golden Pineapple – 0.1-0.3%, K13 Haze – 0.1-0.6%

Terpineol provides a delightful and refreshing flavor, aroma, and cannabis experience. It has a sweet, floral scent with hints of lilac, apple blossom and pine that will transport you to a vibrant garden filled with blooming flowers. Similar to anise and mint, terpineol flavors are sweet, and piney and leave a smooth sensation in the mouth.

This terpene provides a relaxing, calming experience when combined with other cannabis terps and is notorious for the couch lock effect. Terpineol includes anti-depressant and neuroprotective properties, providing its users with terpene effects that may help reduce anxiety and depression.

You can find high levels of terpineol in the following strains: Jack Herer – 0.1-0.5%; White Widow – 0.1-0.4%; and OG Kush – 0.1-0.5%

Valencene is a terpene that offers a delightful and stimulating experience for cannabis enthusiasts. Its sweet, citrusy aroma with notes of oranges and grapefruits can instantly lift your mood and instill feelings of a tropical paradise. The flavor of valencene is zesty with slightly tangy notes that leave a pleasant sensation in the mouth.

Similarly to borneol, valencene is rich in citrus, making it a highly effective bug-repellant. Valencene also has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties as well as the potential benefit of treating cancer. These terpene effects are ideal for those struggling with skin-related conditions such as dermatitis and melanoma.

The following strains have high levels of valencene: Tangie – 0.1-0.4%; Agent Orange – 0.05-0.2%; and Pineapple Express – 0.01-0.1%

Geraniol is a rare terpene in cannabis and is primarily found in strains with high levels of CBD. The terpene exists in geraniums, roses, peaches, oranges, lemons, and tobacco. Geraniol has a sweet and floral scent with notes of rose grass, peaches, and lavender. It is primarily used in aromatic bath products and body lotions but has recently demonstrated significant medical properties.

Geraniol has shown a lot of potential as a neuroprotectant and antioxidant. It may also improve cognitive function and memory by promoting the growth of new brain cells, making it a potential therapeutic agent for Parkinson’s Disease.

Some examples of strains with high levels of geraniol are: Afghani – 0.1-0.4%; Amnesia Haze – 0.05%-0.2%; and Lavender – 0.03-0.1%

Different Ways Technology is Helping to Unlock the Power of Cannabis

As medical and recreational use of cannabis grows, so does the need for technology to unlock its potential. By understanding the components of cannabis — particularly terpenes and THC — we can use technology to create tailored products with powerful therapeutic benefits. Here are some of the ways in which technology is unlocking the power of cannabis.

The first way is by mapping terpene combinations to their effects on the human body. Combinations of different terpenes have been found to produce specific effects, such as heightened alertness or relaxation. By understanding these combinations, researchers can create cannabis products that target specific needs and chosen effects. Machine learning algorithms are being used to predict how different terpene combinations will affect users based on their individual characteristics and preferences.

Another way technology can help unlock the power of cannabis is through wearable devices that detect and measure cannabinoids in our bodies. These devices track changes in cannabinoid levels over time, allowing users to better understand how their bodies react to different types of cannabis products. Additionally, an automated system for tracking, testing, and verifying cannabis products helps ensure safety and quality standards are met when producing products for sale or consumption.

Finally, AI-driven apps are helping consumers find the right product for them by analyzing their needs and recommending personalized options tailored just for them. Using predictive analytics software allows consumers to make informed decisions about what type of product might work best for them based on their unique needs and preferences — from CBD oil tinctures to edibles — ultimately providing a more customized experience with cannabis use.

By leveraging technology in these ways, we can unlock more powerful benefits from cannabis than ever before while making sure that users stay safe while they explore its potential therapeutic uses.

How to Use Technology to Map Terpene and THC Profiles to the Human Body

Using technology to map terpenes and THC profiles to the human body is allowing us to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the effect of cannabis on users. Through the implementation of machine learning algorithms, wearable devices, AI-driven apps, and more, we can measure cannabinoid concentrations in our bodies over time and create customized cannabis treatments for individual needs. This technology can also be utilized by researchers for future studies into the effects cannabinoids have on different individuals or illnesses. In all, this technology unlocks powerful therapeutic benefits from cannabis that can be tailored specifically for each user’s unique situation.

What the Future Holds for Cannabis Technology

The future of cannabis technology is full of exciting potential. As emerging technologies continue to advance in the industry, researchers are uncovering new ways to unlock powerful and therapeutic benefits from this plant-based medicine. Through machine learning algorithms, artificial intelligence, and other innovative methods, manufacturers can create more consistent cannabis products with specific terpene profiles tailored to individual needs. Newer methods of delivery without smoking or vaping – like ingestible oils or transdermal patches – could make it easier for people to access these products’ medicinal benefits. The possibilities that lie ahead appear truly promising!

John Lewis

John Lewis

John Lewis is a frequent contributor to our blog and a proponent of marijuana as medicine.

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