Guide to CBD Terpenes in the UK
As the CBD industry develops in Britain, many people are discovering the immense benefits of CBD terpenes for therapeutic use. People use CBD terpenes to reduce stress, anxiety and depression.
They also consume CBD terpenes to improve their immune system, decrease inflammation, remove nausea and improve sleep. In addition, CBD terpenes add unique scents and aromas to British CBD products.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to use CBD terpenes, the most common terpenes, their benefits, if they’re safe to consume, and whether they’re legal in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re new to CBD or a prevalent user, this guide will help you understand CBD terpenes.
What Are CBD Terpenes?
CBD terpenes are aromatic compounds found in marijuana plants that can offer medicinal side effects. Experts believe terpenes work with other cannabinoids—such as CBD—to offer immense health benefits, including anxiety relief and inflammation reduction. They also provide a distinctive flavour and scent that defines the CBD product.
There are over 100 different terpenes offering unique aromas and health benefits. The most common terpenes include myrcene, limonene, pinene and linalool. Reputable CBD products often state which cannabis terpenes are in the products, enabling you to choose the best product for your requirements.
How To Use CBD Terpenes
Although CBD is a booming industry in the United Kingdom, it’s still relatively new. Therefore, many people don’t understand CBD terpenes or know how to use them. There are various ways you can use CBD terpenes to receive the full health benefits. Here are some of the most common ways:
1. Inhalation
One of the most popular ways to consume CBD terpenes is through inhalation via a diffuser or vaporiser. The primary advantage of this consumption method is that it enters the bloodstream faster because it enters through the lungs instead of your digestive system. You may also add CBD terpenes to other cannabis strains for faster effects.
Nonetheless, it’s essential to use a top-quality vaporizer or diffuser when consuming CBD terpenes. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and start with a small dose before working up. That way, you’ll decrease the chances of adverse side effects.
2. Topical Application
Another superb way to consume CBD terpenes is through topical application. You can apply it with a lotion, balm, or oil by gently massaging it into your skin. In turn, CBD terpenes can penetrate your skin and repair damaged skin, sore joints and achy muscles. Many athletes now use topical CBD for recovery.
In addition, you can also mix CBD terpenes with other natural ingredients—such as shea butter or coconut oil—which are both superb for your skin. You must apply a small amount of CBD terpenes topically when starting. After that, apply more if you don’t receive the desired benefits.
3. Oral Consumption
You can add CBD terpenes to edibles or tinctures to orally consume them. As a result, you’ll expose the CBD terpenes to your digestive system, which can provide robust, long-lasting side effects. Likewise, you can mix CBD terpenes with your favourite food or drink to make it an enjoyable experience.
However, you should always begin with a small dose when consuming CBD orally. It can take longer to feel the desired side effects compared to inhaling or applying CBD topically. So remain patient and start slow.
4. Combine With Other CBD Products
You may also combine CBD terpenes with other CBD products, including oils, gummies and capsules. In turn, you can significantly enhance the effects.
Remember, start small and work your way up. If you’re taking any medications, consult an NHS or private doctor before using CBD products.
What Are Common Cannabis Terpenes?
There are over 100 cannabis terpenes offering a myriad of side effects. Here are some of the most common CBD terpenes found with CBD, CBG, CBN, CBDA, CBC, CBGA, CBDV and CBL:
1. Myrcene
Myrcene is one of the most popular cannabis terpenes in British CBD products, and it’s present in cannabis plants and many non-cannabis plants. Cannabis fans often describe myrcene as having an earthy, musky aroma that provides immense relaxation and the ability to use it in various applications.
Myrcene has analgesic properties, meaning it’s excellent for reducing the most common cause of chronic pain: inflammation. Myrcene inhibits the creation of inflammatory cytokines that produces inflammation throughout your body.
Likewise, myrcene can also offer anti-oxidant properties that protect the body from damage created by free radicals, which are molecules that damage cells and cause various diseases.1
2. Pinene
Pinene is one of the most common cannabis terpenes in the British cannabis market. You can find pinene in many plants, including cannabis plants. The CBD terpene offers a piney aroma and many excellent health benefits—such as anxiety reduction, stress relief and inflammation minimisation.
One of the most known benefits of pinene is its potential to be a bronchodilator that can open your lungs and make it more straightforward to breathe. As a result, pinene can be a useful treatment for respiratory diseases like asthma.2
Furthermore, scientists believe pinene has antimicrobial properties, meaning it can fight off viruses, bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. Like most CBD terpenes, pinene can also reduce inflammation throughout your body.
3. Limonene
Limonene is another common terpene in British CBD products. You can find limonene in many different plants, including peppermint, citrus fruits and cannabis. Cannabis users suggest that limonene has a bright, citrusy aroma with incredible health benefits, including inflammation and anxiety reduction.
One of the main advantages of limonene is its antidepressant properties, making it superb for improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression like anxiety and insomnia.3 Experts also believe that limonene has antimicrobial properties, giving you a solid defence from harmful bacteria and viruses. If you’re also looking for terpenes for nausea, limonene is your best option.
4. Linalool
Linalool is a prevalent CBD terpene in various plants, including rosewood, cannabis and lavender. Cannabis users suggest the linalool CBD terpene has a floral, sweet aroma that provides many health benefits.
Linalool can act as an excellent natural sedative, helping you to reduce stress and anxiety. Linalool achieves this by interacting with the GABA receptors in your brain, which help to regulate your levels of stress and anxiety.4
Like many CBD terpenes, experts believe that linalool has anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for treating conditions like IBD, acne and arthritis.
5. Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is a CBD terpene found in cannabis, black pepper and cloves. With its spicy and peppery aroma, the terpene has many health benefits, including anxiety, stress and inflammation reduction.
Many people use caryophyllene terpene to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Experts also believe that caryophyllene can improve digestive disorders that cause cramping, bloating and diarrhoea.5
What Are The Benefits of CBD Terpenes?
CBD terpenes can offer many health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety and analgesic effects. In addition, they might also enhance the therapeutic effects of other cannabis compounds, leading to more health benefits.
What Are CBD Terpenes Used For?
People use CBD terpenes for their therapeutic benefits. These include pain, stress and anxiety relief. Likewise, people use CBD terpenes to reduce inflammation, improve sleep and boost their overall mood.
Can I Get High From CBD Terpenes?
No, you can’t become high from CBD terpenes. When many people think of cannabis, they think of the psychoactive high created by the THC. However, there’s one big difference: CBD products often contain little to no THC, meaning you can’t become high when using them.
However, CBD terpenes may enhance the effects of CBD, including the relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Are CBD Terpenes Safe?
Yes, experts generally consider CBD terpenes to be safe. However, CBD terpenes oil may interact with specific medications, such as sedatives and blood thinners. So you should always consult your GP if you’re considering using CBD products.
Consult your doctor if you’re taking any medication and considering trying CBD terpenes for health benefits.
CBD Terpenes Vs Essential Oils
One of the most significant questions is the differences between CBD terpenes and essential oils. Although both are natural plant-derived substances, they aren’t entirely the same thing.
For instance, CBD terpenes are responsible for the flavours and scents in cannabis plants, and they work alongside other cannabinoids to boost the therapeutic effects of cannabis. You may find CBD terpenes in oils, topicals and tinctures to provide additional health benefits like pain relief and improved mood.
Essential oils come from many plants, including peppermint, tea tree and lavender. People use essential oils in aromatherapy to reduce stress and promote relaxation, and you can consume essential oils topically or ingest them.
Are CBD Terpenes Legal in the U.K?
Yes, CBD terpenes are legal in the United Kingdom if your CBD products contain less than 0.2% THC.6 CBD terpenes may include small amounts of THC, but most U.K. CBD products have less than 0.2% THC to ensure legality.
How Are CBD Terpenes Extracted?
Cultivators extract CBD terpenes using various methods, including CO2 extraction, solvent extraction and steam distillation. These methods each have advantages and disadvantages, but the specific terpene extracted may determine the extraction method.
Final Thoughts
CBD terpenes may be an excellent option if you’re looking to solve various health issues. In the United Kingdom, the CBD industry is growing fast and it’s the best time to try CBD terpenes for your health.
Try different CBD products with various terpenes to find your preferred taste, aroma and side effects for maximum health benefits.
References
1. Surendran, Shelini, Fatimah Qassadi, Geyan Surendran, Dash Lilley, and Michael Heinrich. “Myrcene-What Are the Potential Health Benefits of This Flavouring and Aroma Agent?” Frontiers in nutrition. U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 19, 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8326332/.
2. Salehi, Bahare, Shashi Upadhyay, Ilkay Erdogan Orhan, Arun Kumar Jugran, Sumali L D Jayaweera, Daniel A Dias, Farukh Sharopov, et al. “Therapeutic Potential of α- and β-Pinene: A Miracle Gift of Nature.” Biomolecules. U.S. National Library of Medicine, November 14, 2019. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6920849/.
3. Eddin, Lujain Bader, Niraj Kumar Jha, M F Nagoor Meeran, Kavindra Kumar Kesari, Rami Beiram, and Shreesh Ojha. “Neuroprotective Potential of Limonene and Limonene Containing Natural Products.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 27, 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8348102/.
4. Linck VM, da Silva AL, Figueiró M, Caramão EB, Moreno PR, Elisabetsky E “Effects of Inhaled Linalool in Anxiety, Social Interaction and Aggressive Behavior in Mice.” Phytomedicine: international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Accessed April 4, 2023. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19962290/.
5. Scandiffio, Rosaria, Federica Geddo, Erika Cottone, Giulia Querio, Susanna Antoniotti, Maria Pia Gallo, Massimo E Maffei, and Patrizia Bovolin. “Protective Effects of (e)-β-Caryophyllene (BCP) in Chronic Inflammation.” Nutrients. U.S. National Library of Medicine, October 26, 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7692661/.
6. “Consumer Cannabidiol (CBD) Products Report (Accessible Version).” GOV.UK. Accessed April 4, 2023. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/acmd-advice-on-consumer-cannabidiol-cbd-products/consumer-cannabidiol-cbd-products-report-accessible-version.