Understanding the diverse compounds within the cannabis plant is important as public interest grows. Many people encounter terms like CBD and terpenes and often wonder about their relationship and distinct properties. This article clarifies how they contribute to the plant’s overall effects and how they differ fundamentally.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is one of over a hundred identified cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with cannabis use. It is a phytocannabinoid, naturally produced by plants, and can account for a significant portion of the plant’s extract.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a complex network that regulates various physiological processes such as mood, sleep, and appetite. CBD has garnered attention for its potential to interact with receptors in this system. Most over-the-counter CBD products are extracted from hemp, a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant containing very low levels of THC.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are a large and diverse class of organic compounds produced by a wide variety of plants, not exclusively cannabis. These volatile molecules are primarily responsible for the distinct aromas and flavors of plants, giving pine its characteristic scent or citrus fruits their zesty fragrance. More than 30,000 different terpenes exist across the plant kingdom, playing various roles in plant biology.
In plants, terpenes serve functions such as attracting pollinators and defending against predators or infectious germs. They are major constituents of essential oils, which explains their widespread use in perfumes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy. While highly aromatic, terpenes are distinct from cannabinoids in their chemical structure and primary function.
The Relationship Between CBD and Terpenes
CBD is a cannabinoid that primarily interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, while terpenes are aromatic compounds responsible for scent and flavor. Therefore, CBD is not a terpene; they are distinct classes of molecules. Both cannabinoids and terpenes are produced in the glandular trichomes of the cannabis plant and are found together in its resin.
Their co-occurrence in the cannabis plant leads to the “entourage effect.” This concept suggests that cannabinoids, such as CBD, and terpenes work synergistically, meaning their combined effect is greater than the sum of their individual effects. Specific terpenes can modulate or enhance the therapeutic benefits of CBD, potentially influencing mood, stress levels, or even physical discomfort. This intricate interaction highlights why the complete chemical profile of the plant is often considered more beneficial than isolated compounds.
Why Understanding This Matters
Understanding the difference between CBD and terpenes, and their synergistic relationship, is important for consumers navigating the diverse market of cannabis products. This knowledge allows for more informed choices, particularly when selecting between different types of CBD extracts. Full-spectrum CBD products, for instance, retain the full array of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds, enabling the entourage effect.
Conversely, CBD isolate products contain only pure CBD, without the accompanying terpenes or other cannabinoids, meaning they do not offer the benefits of this synergistic interaction. Knowing about terpene profiles allows consumers to select products tailored to specific desired effects, as different terpenes contribute unique properties, such as calming or energizing effects. This appreciation of the plant’s diverse compounds empowers individuals to make choices that align with their wellness goals.