If you’re a cannabis aficionado, you’ve probably heard the science surrounding cannabinoids: CBD is good. THC is bad. Class dismissed. Well, not so fast – because the benefits of terpenes and flavonoids have been largely overlooked. Today, we’re going to take a closer look…
Just when you thought the world’s most notorious plant couldn’t be any more misunderstood – allow us to introduce you to the flavonoids and terpenes in cannabis.
But first, let’s clear one thing up: these two chemical compounds are found in thousands of other plants, fruits and vegetables – only people commonly associate them with cannabis because of the plant’s high concentration of them.
If you’re a plant enthusiast, you’ve probably heard about cannabinoids like CBD and THC. But what about the unsung heroes of the plant world—terpenes and flavonoids? These compounds are everywhere, and they do more than just add scent and color.
Just when you thought plants couldn’t get any more interesting—allow us to introduce you to the world of terpenes and flavonoids.
First, what’s the tea with terpenes?
What Are Terpenes?
Put simply, terpenes are the reason your favorite plants and fruits smell the way they do. They’re found in an array of species, from pine trees to citrus fruits, and they serve an important role in nature by attracting pollinators and repelling pests.
The Different Types of Terpenes
- Myrcene – Found in mangoes, hops, and basil, this terpene is known for its earthy and musky scent.
- Limonene – If you’ve ever peeled an orange and enjoyed that burst of citrusy freshness, you have limonene to thank.
- Linalool – The floral, calming scent of lavender? That’s linalool doing its thing.
- Humulene – Found in hops and coriander, humulene adds a unique spice to the mix.
Types Of Terpenes In Cannabis
There are approximately 20,000 different types of terpenes found in nature (that we’re aware of) but there are a few types that are particularly prevalent in the cannabis plant – ready to jump in?
Myrcene
Studies on mice have confirmed what many humans have long believed to be true: myrcene can have pain-killing properties. Not only that, it is believed to contribute to the relaxing and sedative effect of cannabis. Myrcene is also found in many other fruits and hops. In other words, it’s what helps to give beer and mango its delicious flavour – so it’s kind of a big deal.
Limonene
Limonene is one of the most common terpenes in nature – think lemon, mandarin, orange and grapefruit. And just like these brightly coloured citrus fruits, limonene is believed to brighten your mood. Not only that, studies show it could stimulate immune function and prevent cancer.
Linalool
Another study on mice investigated the effects of the linalool terpenes, which is commonly found in plants like lavender, jasmine and rosewood. The mice that inhaled linalool experienced calming effects and induced sedation – and it is also believed to have antiseizure effects.
Humulene
Humulene is believed to be an effective anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial agent, as well as contribute to pain relief. Oh, and once again, it also contributes to the taste of hoppy beers. Let’s all take a moment to thank our friend, humulene.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. There’s over 100 different types of terpenes in Cannabis, such as Caryophyllene, Pinene, Alpha-Bisabolol, Eucalyptol, Camphene and more – and each compound contains its own unique benefits that interact in different ways with cannabinoids and endocannabinoid system.
Now, what about the lesser known compound, flavonoids…
What Are Flavonoids?
Flavonoids are the pigments that give fruits, vegetables, and flowers their stunning colors. But they’re not just about looks—they help plants survive by protecting them from UV rays and pests.
The Different Types of Flavonoids
Anthocyanins – These are responsible for the rich reds, blues, and purples in berries and grapes.
Flavanols – Found in tea, apples, and cocoa, these bring subtle but distinct flavors.
Flavones – Present in parsley and celery, they contribute to pigmentation and plant health.
Flavonoids for longevity
We all want to live a long, healthy life – don’t we? Well, the good news is that flavonoids can help us to do just that. Studies show that flavonoids can reduce inflammation, boost immunity and prevent common diseases.
So you know that age-old saying, an apple a day keeps the doctor away? Well, it’s actually the quercetin flavonoids in an apple each day that keeps the doctor away – it just didn’t quite have the same ring to it.
Flavonoids for weight maintenance
Did you know that diets rich in flavonoids could also help to maintain your weight, or even contribute to weight loss? One study concluded that foods rich in flavonols, flavan-3-ols, anthocyanins, and flavonoid polymers could help to prevent obesity and the negative side effects that come with it.
Flavonoids to boost your mood
It’s no secret that what we eat can impact how we feel. And more research is starting to look into the impact that flavonoids have on our mood and mental health – revealing it could increase our cognitive performance and decrease our chances of developing depression.
And while we still have so much to learn about flavonoids and their impact on our health – they could just hold the secret as to why fruit, veggies and plants are so good for us.
Eat those vegetables – Mum was right all along.
Terpenes, Flavonoids And Cannabis: Let’s Bring It All Together
So let’s circle back: Cannabinoids are good for you. Terpenes are good for you. Flavonoids are good for you. But when we bring them all together? Well, that’s when the magic happens.
So what happens when you mix terpenes and flavonoids together? Well, that’s when the magic happens. These compounds don’t just exist on their own; they interact in incredible ways, influencing the way we experience plants.
At Hemp Collective, we blend natural ingredients rich in terpenes and flavonoids—like black pepper, lemongrass, lavender, and citrus fruits—with our own organic hemp. This combination brings a sensory depth that’s worth exploring.
So there you have it—terpenes and flavonoids are more than just scents and colors. They’re nature’s way of making plants even more fascinating.
You see, terpenes and flavonoids can impact how cannabinoids work within our body.
This astonishing finding is called the entourage effect, which is the belief that consuming the whole cannabis plant (rather than a single aspect of it) could increase the overall effects and benefits.
And what’s more, here at the Hemp Collective, we blend a number of natural ingredients that also contain terpenes and flavonoids with our own organic hemp. These include black pepper, myrrh, lemongrass, copaiba oil, lavender, orange and grapefruit – to name a few.
So terpenes and flavonoids do more than colour and flavour our world. They interact with cannabinoids, and ultimately, our endocannabinoid system. Like one big happy family – they’re all better together.