Terpenes 101 Part II: Benefits & Background of Limonene & Humulene
Terpenes are fascinating plant particles that are produced by and are present in every vegetative species on Earth. In addition to their aromatic scents and distinguishable tastes, terpenes have profound effects on emotional and physical health.
More and more studies are concluding that hemp-derived terpenes, when combined with phytocannabinoids like CBD and CBG, produce a powerful entourage effect that enhances the therapeutic impact and health benefits of hemp extracts and oils.
In Terpenes 101 Part I we describe what terpenes are, their primary sources and begin our introduction of the seven active terpenes used in RECEPT broad spectrum hemp extract. In this chapter we’ll cover a couple more of RECEPT’s terpenes including humulene and limonene. Although many of the same terpenes are produced in a variety of plants, shrubs, and trees, all terpenes in RECEPT are hemp-derived.
To learn more about what terpenes are and the benefits of the terpenes myrcene and linalool visit Terpenes 101 Part I.
Humulene [Hew-Ma-Lene]
Background & Plant Sources
Humulene is one of ten primary terpenes. It’s been identified as an essential compound in hops plants and is a source of that distinct hoppy taste many beers, like IPAs, are known for. Humulene is also commonly found in ginseng, sage, ginger, and of course cannabis. Coincidentally, cannabis and hops belong to the same plant genus. Humulene holds many of the same characteristics as beta-caryophyllene (a terpene in RECEPT we’ll discuss in Terpenes 101 Part III) and is known in many scientific circles as alpha-caryophyllene.
Aroma & Flavor Profile
If humulene had a wardrobe choice, it would probably be a woodsy flannel, as it exhibits musky, earthy aroma tones rather than a robust citrusy smell like that of terpene’s limonene or geraniol. Although humulene’s aroma composition is subtle, its presence is tasted often as a food and drink spice addition. The combination of humulene and the terpene pinene is the main source of pine forest scents. Aside from its many therapeutic health effects, humulene plays a significant role as a scent component of the cannabis plant. That pungent cannabis-y scent, heightened by humulene, serves as a defense mechanism for hemp plants against insects and pests and also prevents fungal infections.
Humulene Benefits & Its Role In Hemp
As a primary terpene, humulene—in partnership with beta-caryophyllene—binds effortlessly to the body’s endocannabinoid system’s receptors. It has a knack for moving phytocannabinoids through the body and connecting them with the endocannabinoid system.
Humulene’s role in health and wellness seems to be growing by the year. Having a long history in holistic medicine, humulene has been used in Eastern medicine practices for centuries. Modern research has concurred that humulene supports gut and immune health as the compound holds antibacterial properties. Humulene is also known to suppress physical discomfort and aches and improves air and breathing flow issues caused by allergies.
Limonene [Lime-O-Neen]
Background & Plant Sources
Ahhhh limonene. Probably the most recognizable terpene, limonene is produced abundantly in many of our favorite citrus fruits, including oranges, lemons, grapefruit, and limes.
Limonene oil is used often in fragrances, household cleaners, and as a natural flavoring addition to many foods and drinks. In addition to the citrus family, limonene is also present in cannabis, mint, rosemary, pine, and juniper.
Aroma & Flavor Profile
Think of the first bite of a freshly peeled orange. That burst of citrusy sweetness is due in large part to limonene. Limonene also holds tangy and sour flavor compositions depending on other terpenes and plant properties it mingles with.
Limonene Benefits & Its Role In Hemp
Aside from myrcene, limonene is the most abundant terpene in industrial hemp. Limonene plays a crucial role in hemp’s entourage effect, as it’s known to activate the interaction between phytocannabinoids, other terpenes, and receptors of the body’s endocannabinoid system. You could consider limonene that friend who always makes an effort to get everyone together. Limonene also increases cell absorption of essential nutrients.
As a component in essential oils and RECEPT broad spectrum hemp extract, limonene promotes energizing and uplifting effects on mood and demeanor. Daily use of limonene is known to help reduce physical discomfort and works as a recovery agent after workouts or strenuous activity. A 2011 study found that limonene positively modulates the body’s immune system. Limonene’s benefits list continues with its ability to promote cellular regeneration and it also helps rejuvenate damaged skin cells.
In our final Terpenes 101 chapter, we’ll cover the remaining terpenes present in RECEPT including beta-caryophyllene, geraniol, and terpinolene. To learn more about the health benefits and formulation of RECEPT broad spectrum hemp extract visit primemybody.com.
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