Terpenes are organic compounds found in nearly all plants, from pine to citrus and, for our purposes, the cannabis plant. These terpenes are responsible for giving plants their characteristic scents, flavors and pigments.
Terpenes and the Entourage Effect
The various terpenes in the cannabis plant work together in what is known as the “entourage effect.” The entourage effect is a term coined by S. Ben-Shabat and Raphael Mechoulam in 1998 to represent the biological synergy of cannabinoids and terpenes. This phenomenon occurs when different terpenes interact with each other and with other compounds in the plant, such as cannabinoids, to produce a more potent and synergistic effect than when each compound is used alone. Think about the magic of the Rolling Stones vs the allure of each single artist.
Overall, the entourage effect is an important concept in the world of cannabis and plant-based medicine. It highlights the importance of using whole-plant extracts rather than isolated compounds for therapeutic purposes.
Hello Again products are made from distillate of THC and CBD which allows for customization and consistency in our product. Understanding the importance of the entourage effect, we build up the terpene profile by adding other specific botanicals to address targeted symptoms. THC and CBD are not terpenes, they are cannabinoids. The cannabis plant has well over 100 different cannabinoids and their effects are just now being studied and understood. Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters made by the human body which send nerve impulses to the brain to trigger different effects in the body. Because cannabinoids (from cannabis) look and act like endocannabinoids (from the body), the body’s cannabinoid receptors recognize them and allow cannabis to affect behavior, mood, coordination and more.
Additionally, terpenes also have therapeutic properties and are responsible for the medicinal effects of the cannabis plant.
Photo from THC Design
Terpenes in the Cannabis Plant
In the cannabis plant itself, there are about 400 known terpenes, and terpenes alone do not get you high. They are the primary constituents of essential oils and are responsible for the aroma. The synergistic combinations of terpenes in cannabis have been known for centuries to contain medicinal properties like anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antiparasitic among others.
Carophyllene
Carophyllene is generally the most abundant terpene in cannabis. It has been shown to have a wide range of medicinal uses and health benefits. Studies suggest carophyllene carries analgesic, or pain relieving, properties comparable to many non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This terpene has also been shown to protect the lining of the stomach, relieve itchy skin, treat malaria and play a role in the treatment of addiction.
Limonene
Another very common terpene, limonene, is known to boost energy and increase focus by increasing serotonin levels. Studies have suggested it has high bioavailability, and many health improving properties, including as an antiseptic, immunostimulant, gastric protectant and limonene may aid in cancer prevention or treatment. It has been shown in multiple studies to be an effective treatment for acne and gastric ulcers. Limonene is found in plants such as rosemary, peppermint and lemon all of which can be found in Hello Again Everyday, Period and Hangover.
Linalool
Linalool is another common terpene, known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties as well as an impetus for relaxation, It acts as a mild sedative and is also found in Hello Again products through added botanicals like bergamot, rose geranium and lavender. It’s no surprise that lavender adds to the relaxation effects of our Sleep product.
Myrcene
Myrcene can increase cell permeability and allows for cannabinoids to be absorbed faster than they would on their own. It works synergistically with THC and promotes anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. You can find myrcene in botanicals such as juniper berries, sweet thyme and hops.
Pinene
And last but not least, Pinene has unique attributes that contribute to the overall benefits in our products. The benefits of pinene include anti-inflammation, anti-anxiety and pain relieving terpene that also helps reduce mental fog or forgetfulness. Rosemary, pine needle and bergamot all contain pinene and are key players in Hello Again products.
Hello Again’s mission is to help women feel like themselves again. We can’t feel like ourselves if we are high or have to worry about any inconsistency in effects of the products we use. As a vaginal suppository, Hello Again accesses the endocannabinoid system without the psychoactivity that other more common cannabis products produce.
-Patty Pappas
