Difference Between Cannabinoids and Terpenes
As the legality of marijuana has started to become more widespread, so does the research regarding its properties and components. For years, people have focused on topics like CBD and THC, which are cannabinoids. Now that there have been more types discovered, it is not surprising that a new component has been encountered - the terpenes. In this article, we will list the differences between cannabinoids and terpenes in lieu of marijuana.
Cannabinoids are components that can be found in the cannabis sativa and is primarily responsible for its different effects such as reduction of pain, anxiety, depression, and stress. They can be divided into several classes, including CBD who is valued for its wide range of medical benefits and THC who is more known because of its “high.” When applied, a human’s central nervous system reacts to cannabinoids and thus experiences the various effects.
Terpenes are a component found in marijuana. However, it can also be found in other plants. Terpenes is believed to be responsible for the different aroma profiles and flavor notes in various cannabis strains. It is also believed that it has synergistic elements with cannabinoids - meaning that terpenes, when taken with cannabinoids, work in greater conjunction together as opposed to separate use. This phenomena is known as the ‘entourage effect.’
| Cannabinoids | Terpenes | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Components in cannabis sativa that react to receptors in the brain, resulting to various effects | Volatile, unsaturated hydrocarbons in essential oils of various plants ; believed to enhance the effects of cannabinoids in the system |
| Can be found in | Cannabis sativa plant | Various plants, especially conifers |
| Source | Throughout the plant, mostly in the roots and flowers | In the resin glands of plants |
| Benefits | Depends on the type, includes stress relief, reduction of pain and inflammation, reduction of stress and anxiety | Depends on the type; includes anti-inflammatory properties, muscle relaxing effect, pain relief, and nausea relief |
| Side effects | Depends on the type, includes impaired judgement, memory problems, reddened eyes, and dry throat | Can affect the psychoactive effects of THC |
| Types | THC, THCA, CBD, CBDA, CBG, CBC, CBN, CBL, and many more | Myrcene, Limonene, Linalool, Caryophyllene, Eucalyptol, Humulene, and many more |
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