What are Terpenes and Cannabinoids?
Both are chemical compounds that are closely linked. In cannabis, THC and CBD are the dominant cannabinoids and account for most of the effects. THC in particular can be clearly identified as the psychoactive substance of the plant, i.e. what gives a high. But that is pretty much it when it comes to unambiguity, because the other countless combinations of cannabinoids and terpenes can produce completely different effects.
Terpenes
Terpenes are the volatile, gaseous molecules that can be identified using a gas chromatograph and the chromatogram generated from it. They give the individual cannabis varieties their unmistakable scent and taste. Terpenes each have their own pharmacological effect, which is also used, for example, in essential oils. For example, myrcene is a trailblazer for other substances by lowering the blood-brain barrier and thus enabling a more intensive effect of other substances.
Limonene is effective against fungi and can penetrate proteins, linalool is soothing and pinene lets the lungs breathe. Almost all terpenes are anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. The combination of the different substances in different potencies makes each individual plant a unique active ingredient. This interaction of chemical compounds is also called the entourage effect.
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are terpenophenolic substances, i.e. a combination of terpenes and phenols. These chemical compounds are not so volatile and are identified by liquid chromatography. These cannabinoids couple to endogenous receptors called CB1 and CB2. These receptors belong to a system called the endocannabinoid system and are spread throughout the human body.
CBD, the second most common cannabinoid in the cannabis plant, is currently experiencing a worldwide boom, as it does not cause a high but has many positive effects. Especially today in our fast-paced world, many people are looking for relaxation, peace and tranquillity, and not to get excited about everything. CBD is perfectly suited for this and it doesn't have any side effects. Besides that, CBD is anti-inflammatory and has a positive effect on homeostasis. CBD is a wonder substance for the whole family.