Terpenes the Same
If you’re like most people, you’ve probably wondered: Are all terpenes the same or are some more distinctive than others? The answer to that question depends on your source. Terpenes are produced from isoprenes and follow the biogenetic isoprene rule, first discovered by Leopold Ruzicka in 1953. The C5 rule specifies the amount of biogenetic isoprene units per unit of mass. Biogenetic isoprene units come from dimethylallyl pyrophosphate or isopentenyl pyrophosphate, which are produced in the mevalonate and non-mevalonate pathways, respectively. These two pathways are largely exclusive in most organisms. Archaea and eukaryotes mostly follow the MEP pathway
Monoterpenes are simple molecules with a molecular formula of C10H16. They include geraniol, limonene, and linalool. Monoterpenoids are found in plants and are classified as a class by their chemical structure. Monoterpenes are those with only two isoprene units, while polyterpenes have three or four isoprene units.
Terpenes are a large class of organic compounds produced by plants and some insects. Some of these molecules give off distinct aromas. For example, pinene smells like pine trees, and is used as a local antiseptic and expectorant. Pinenes also improve energy. Others, called borneol, smell like camphor or mint and may work as an insect repellent.
Limonene is a common terpene, which gives citrus fruits their citrusy flavor. It is known to modulate immune cells and may protect against a wide range of disorders. Because of its beneficial effects, limonene can be safely supplemented. Pinene, on the other hand, is a natural terpene. Pinene is abundant in many plants and provides the fresh scent. Pinene also may have therapeutic benefits.
The cannabis industry calls non-cannabis terpenes botanical terpenes. However, both types of Buy terpenes serve specific roles in cannabis manufacturing. This distinction has caused controversy among self-proclaimed cannabis aficionados, who claim that one terpene is better than the other. There are no reliable studies that show which is the best and which are inferior.
Are All Terpenes the Same?
While there is a certain amount of natural variability in terpenes, the vast majority are derived from cannabis sativa. Plant-derived terpenes are organic and solvent-free. Manufacturers also artificially reconstruct terpenes using synthetic substances. However, these synthetics are not considered safe and cannot replicate the terpene profiles of specific Cannabis sativa strains. This has made preservation of terpenes a priority in the cannabis market.
Some terpenes are bioactive. Their effects depend on their concentration and how the individual uses it. They produce vibrant aromas and are an integral part of many essential oils. They are even used in alternative medicine as an aid for mood or stress management. Moreover, some people claim that terpenes enhance the high from cannabis, a notion known as the entourage effect. Despite these differences, there is no single terpene that is better than another.
Cannabis terpenes are also present in other plants. Pinene, for instance, is found in pine trees and orange peels. While these terpenes are not as potent as cannabis terpenes, they can still impart flavor. If you can’t find any cannabis-derived terpenes, you can try botanical terpenes instead. They’re generally less expensive, and are made from the same chemical compounds.