Terpenes, the aromatic compounds found in plants, offer far more than just pleasant scents. With over 20,000 distinct chemicals identified, these secret weapons of the plant world possess an astonishing array of biological effects. From reducing pain and stress to boosting brain health and combating cancer and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, terpenes have become a subject of growing interest in the field of herbal medicine. This article explores the latest findings on medicinal terpenes and their potential benefits.
Recent advancements in the study of terpenes have revealed their significant impact not only in the cannabis world but also across various herbal medicines. A groundbreaking study by Project CBD challenges the assumption that cannabis strains labeled as Sativa or Indica represent distinct genetic lineages. Instead, the study highlights the role of a few key terpenes, such as farnesene, myrcene, and eudesmol, along with lesser-studied flavonoids, in shaping the flavor and effects of cannabis. As scientists delve deeper into the realm of terpenes, captivating discoveries about these fascinating plant compounds continue to emerge on a weekly basis.
Among the diverse terpenes, beta-caryophyllene stands out for its broad spectrum of effects. This sesquiterpene, present in black pepper, cannabis, cloves, and other plants, gained scientific attention after its discovery as the first known “dietary cannabinoid.” Recent studies have shed light on its potential healing powers, including its role in inducing cytotoxicity in triple negative breast cancer cells when combined with CBD and CBC. Additionally, research conducted by Vidya Herbs revealed that beta-caryophyllene extracted from black pepper seeds showed promise in enhancing cognitive function and exerting anti-inflammatory effects in animal models of dementia.
Unveiling Terpene Potential: Exploration into terpene-based pain relief has led to significant breakthroughs. A study published in the Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research demonstrated how kahweol, a diterpene found in coffee, can effectively reduce pain sensations by interacting with the endocannabinoid system. Another study highlighted the analgesic properties of alpha-bisabolol, present in cannabis and chamomile, and camphene, known for its pungent aroma. These terpenes showcased their ability to modulate T-type calcium channels in the brain, providing relief from inflammatory and neuropathic pain.
In the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, terpenes have emerged as a promising solution. Researchers from the Czech Republic and Italy discovered two previously unidentified diterpenes in the Coleus blumei plant, demonstrating potent antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Remarkably, this plant, commonly used for ornamental purposes, has a historical background of psychoactive usage among indigenous people in Mexico, drawing intriguing parallels to Salvia divinorum and its psychoactive diterpene Salvinorin A, which acts on kappa opioid receptors.