The 10 most important facts about terpenes?
Terpenes are one of the most fascinating and versatile groups of chemical compounds in nature. They are not only responsible for the characteristic aromas and scents of plants, but also play a crucial role in the interaction between plants and their environment. In addition, terpenes have significant effects on the human body and mind, making them an important area of research in medicine, aromatherapy, and food science. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the world of terpenes, shedding light on their chemical structure, their functions in nature, their therapeutic properties, and their applications in various fields. A special focus is on the gentle drying of hemp and its influence on the terpene profile.
1. Chemical structure and classification of terpenes
Basics of terpene chemistry
Terpenes are organic compounds made up of isoprene units (C₅H₈). These units can come in different combinations and structures, resulting in an enormous variety of terpenes. Terpenes are classified based on the number of isoprene units:
- Monoterpenes (C₁₀H₁₆): Consist of two isoprene units. Examples: Limonene, myrcene, pinene.
- Sesquiterpenes (C₁₅H₂₄): Consist of three isoprene units. Examples: caryophyllene, humulene.
- Diterpenes (C₂₀H₃₂): Consist of four isoprene units. Examples: Cafestol, Taxol.
- Triterpenes (C₃₀H₄₈): Consist of six isoprene units. Examples: squalene, lanosterol.
Biosynthesis of terpenes
Terpenes are synthesized in plants by the mevalonate pathway or the methylerythritol phosphate pathway (MEP pathway). These biochemical pathways produce isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP), which serve as building blocks for terpene biosynthesis. Enzymes such as terpene synthases catalyze the formation of specific terpenes from these precursors.
2. Functions of terpenes in nature
Defense against pests and pathogens
Terpenes serve plants as chemical defenses against herbivores (herbivores) and pathogens (pathogens). For example, conifers produce terpenes such as pinene and limonene to deter insects. Some terpenes also have antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Attracting pollinators
Terpenes play an important role in attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other insects. The fragrant terpenes in flowers signal the presence of nectar, thus promoting pollination.
Adaptation to environmental conditions
Terpenes help plants adapt to environmental stresses, such as heat, drought, or UV radiation. For example, terpenes can serve as sunscreens by absorbing harmful UV rays, thus preventing oxidative damage to the plant.
3. The most famous terpenes and their properties
Myrcene
- Occurrence: Mango, thyme, hops, hemp
- Aroma: Earthy, spicy, with a hint of citrus
- Effect: Calming, relaxing, anti-inflammatory
- Scientific background: Myrcene interacts with GABA receptors in the brain, which explains its calming effects. It also boosts blood-brain barrier permeability, which promotes the absorption of other cannabinoids such as THC.
Limonene
- Occurrence: citrus fruits, peppermint, hemp
- Aroma: Fresh, citrusy
- Effect: Mood-enhancing, stress-reducing, antibacterial
- Scientific background: Limonene activates serotonin and dopamine receptors, which explains its mood-enhancing effects. It has also been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in vitro.
Pinene
- Occurrence: pine, rosemary, hemp
- Aroma: Pine-like, resinous
- Effect: Anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator, promotes concentration
- Scientific background: Pinene inhibits the activity of inflammatory mediators such as COX-2 and thus reduces inflammation. It also acts as a bronchodilator by dilating the airways.
Linalool
- Occurrence: lavender, coriander, hemp
- Aroma: Floral, sweet
- Effect: Calming, anxiolytic, sleep-inducing
- Scientific background: Linalool interacts with GABA receptors and increases the release of serotonin, which explains its calming and anxiolytic effects.
Caryophyllene
- Occurrence: Black pepper, cloves, hemp
- Aroma: Spicy, peppery
- Effect: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic
- Scientific background: Caryophyllene binds to CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which explains its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
4. Terpenes and the Entourage Effect
What is the entourage effect?
The entourage effect describes the synergistic effect of terpenes, cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD), and other plant compounds. Terpenes enhance and modulate the effects of cannabinoids, resulting in a holistic effect.
Scientific evidence
Studies have shown that terpenes influence the effects of cannabinoids through various mechanisms:
- Myrcene: Increases the permeability of the blood-brain barrier, which improves the absorption of THC and CBD.
- Limonene: Enhances the mood-boosting effects of CBD.
- Caryophyllene: Has an anti-inflammatory effect and can enhance the pain-relieving properties of cannabinoids.
5. Terpenes in medicine and therapy
Pain relief and anti-inflammatory
Many terpenes, such as caryophyllene and myrcene, have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that can be used in the treatment of chronic pain and inflammation.
Anxiety and stress reduction
Terpenes such as linalool and limonene have calming and anxiolytic effects that can be helpful in treating anxiety disorders and stress.
Antibacterial and antiviral properties
Some terpenes, such as pinene and limonene, have antibacterial and antiviral properties that are used in medicine and in the development of disinfectants.
6. Terpenes in everyday life
Aromatherapy
Terpenes are an important part of aromatherapy. Essential oils rich in terpenes are used to relieve stress, improve mood, and promote sleep.
Food & Beverage Industry
Terpenes give many foods and beverages their characteristic aroma. For example, limonene is responsible for the fresh scent of citrus fruits.
Cosmetics and perfumery
Terpenes are used in the cosmetics and perfume industries to create natural fragrances and develop products with soothing or invigorating properties.
7. Terpenes and Hemp
The Role of Terpenes in Cannabis
Terpenes are an essential component of cannabis and contribute significantly to its aroma, taste, and effects. They interact with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD to create the entourage effect.
Popular terpenes in hemp:
- Myrcene: Gives many cannabis strains an earthy aroma and a calming effect.
- Limonene: Responsible for citrusy aromas and mood-lifting effects.
- Caryophyllene: Gives a peppery flavor and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
8. Gentle drying and its influence on the terpene profile
Why is gentle drying important?
Drying hemp is a critical step that significantly affects the terpene profile and therefore the aroma, taste, and effects of the plant. Improper drying can cause volatile terpenes to evaporate or decompose, affecting the quality of the final product.
How does gentle drying affect the terpene profile?
- Temperature control: Terpenes are volatile compounds that evaporate easily at high temperatures. Gentle drying at low temperatures (15-21°C) helps to preserve the terpenes.
- Humidity: Too much humidity can lead to mold growth, while too low humidity dries out the terpenes. The optimal humidity is 45-55%.
- Ventilation: Good ventilation ensures that the humidity is evenly distributed and that mold growth is prevented.
Scientific evidence
Studies have shown that gentle drying significantly improves the terpene profile of hemp. For example, the content of limonene and myrcene remains significantly higher when dried at low temperatures and controlled humidity than when drying at fast, hot temperatures.
9. How to Preserve and Preserve Terpenes
Extraction of terpenes
Terpenes can be extracted through various methods, including:
- Steam distillation: A common method of extracting essential oils.
- CO₂ extraction: A gentle method that keeps terpenes intact.
Storage of terpenes
Terpenes are volatile compounds that can evaporate easily. To preserve them, they should be stored in dark, airtight containers at cool temperatures.
10. Terpenes and Sustainability
Natural alternatives to synthetic flavors
Terpenes offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic flavors and fragrances. They are biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Use in agriculture
Terpenes can be used as natural pesticides to repel pests and reduce the use of chemical pesticides.
Conclusion: Terpenes – versatile compounds with great potential
Terpenes are not only responsible for the aromas and scents of plants, but also play an important role in medicine, aromatherapy, and everyday life. Their diverse effects and applications make them a fascinating field of research with great potential. Whether you’re interested in the flavors of hemp or want to take advantage of the therapeutic benefits of terpenes, these compounds have a lot going for them. 🌿
Dive into the world of terpenes and discover their fascinating properties!
Sources:
• Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: Potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects.
• Booth, J. K., & Bohlmann, J. (2019). Terpenes in Cannabis sativa – From plant genome to humans.
