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What are terpenes and why do they matter?

What are terpenes and why do they matter?

In the world of CBD, there are many different words and phrases you may have stumbled across. One of these is 'terpenes'. Some CBD products have them, and others don't. So, what are they? Why do they matter and should you be focused on buying CBD products with terpenes in?

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are in almost all plants and provide protective properties to keep the plant alive. They keep pathogens away, and play a vital role in complex biological interactions within the plant itself. Furthermore, they are responsible for the smell and taste associated with plants. So, we hear you asking, why does that matter to us as humans? 

We have found other uses for terpenes - for example, sometimes they can be processed to into produce products like pesticides and cleaning solvents. But studies have shown that terpenes are medicinal in the human body, especially in relation to mood and mental health

Cannabis plants have more than 400 terpenes in them, some of which are also found in other plants. We know the following about terpenes found in cannabis:

Rosemary, cloves and hops contain a terpene that is also found in cannabis called beta-caryophyllene. Studies in complimentary medicine have shown that this terpene plays a role in reducing the symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

In folk medicine, the terpene humulene has been used for improving energy levels, and this terpene is also present in the cannabis plant. Similarly, the terpene linalool is present, which is also found in lavender - a popular remedy for reducing stress and regulating mood and sleep. 

So how do you know which terpenes are in your CBD product? Well, any properly regulated and tested CBD product will come with a third party lab test report, which should include the terpene profile within that product. 

What does the research say?

Research into terpenes is ongoing but so far promising. We already know that there is a strong correlation between CBD exposure and reduced anxiety and depression. Further research in this area suggests that terpenes can enhance the effects of CBD in psychiatric symptoms, giving mental health sufferers even more relief. Saying that, research is also conflicted on this. When looking specifically at bipolar disorder, some people seem to benefit more from CBD than others. One possible explanation for this is that CBD does not influence the brain centre that controls behaviour, but it does impact the way a person experiences external stimuli. Therefore, environment plays a role in the effectiveness of terpene rich CBD in these cases. Still, what's evident is that when terpenes are added to CBD, the positive effects of CBD on mental health are enhanced. 

Another study supports existing research that CBD is good for reducing chronic pain, and that the role of terpenes gives an 'entourage effect', meaning that different compounds from the cannabis plant work in unison to give added medicinal benefit to the user. The same research found this also to be true of those withdrawing from opioid addiction, which can cause unpleasant symptoms if not properly managed. So, if you are a chronic pain sufferer or struggle with addiction, terpene rich CBD could be the best product to choose. Of course, it's worth noting research is ongoing and findings change all the time, so keep your eye on the JM Distro blog for more information as it comes in. 

What do terpenes taste like?

Those who vape CBD will tell you that terpene rich CBD has a different taste to CBD isolate. You will be able to sense a cannabis-like taste with every puff, which is delightful for some, and off-putting for others. You may also get hints of rosemary, thyme and oregano, which all contain the same terpenes as cannabis. For this reason, terpenes have a unique, savoury taste, which doesn't always sit well with customers. 

The trick here is to find a complimentary flavour. Flavours that do not enhance or offset the cannabis flavour, but clash with it instead, will be quite unpleasant. This is why it's a good idea to buy a few flavours at once, or experiment with them in a shop offering samples, to ensure you get the right mix. 

Best terpene rich CBD products 

If you'd like to try terpenes yourself or wish to sell them to your customers, we can recommend a number of products.

Here are some great ideas for those who enjoy the taste and medicinal effects of terpenes:

Splyft Lite Disposable Vape Bar 300mg - This easy, stylish and lightweight full spectrum CBD disposable vape bar contains 300mg of terpene rich CBD. You can choose from a number of flavours including biscotti, gelato, mango kush and stardawg. 

Pure 95% Terpene Isolate - Select from a few different terpene profiles to add an extra dimension to your CBD usage. This is great for more experienced CBD users who like to create their own blends, customised to their preferences. 

Cannatech Terpene Infused CBD E-liquid - This e-liquid can be added to your vape device, giving you 250mg of broad spectrum CBD, and a 70PG/30VG ratio for a strong throat hit. 

Dropshipping CBD

If you are currently selling CBD products, it is a wise idea to add terpene rich CBD to your inventory. Sought after by many CBD users, terpenes are known to be healthy, medicinal and psychologically beneficial. Those wishing to vape CBD to reduce chronic pain or help with mental health difficulties will be keen to try terpenes. When dropshipping with JM Distro, you can rest assured that all CBD products are scrutinised to ensure they offer what they say on the tin - no more, no less. Third party lab testing is always recommended, which will give you the exact compounds within any CBD product. 

If you have not yet added terpene rich CBD products to your inventory, you can do this via your JM Distro account. If you need any help, please get in touch with one of our members of staff who will be glad to assist you further. 

Not yet dropshipping with us? You can learn how to make money selling CBD products on our dropshipping page. 

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