History
Terpenes are volatile aromatic molecules found in essential oils that give plants their unique aromas and flavors. They are used in the plant’s physiology to lure pollinators and to protect from insects and animal predators, fungus, and microbes. The terpenes used in the Botanical Terpene blend are extracted from a variety of plants using steam distillation and are tested to be free of solvents. Alpha-Pinene, found in Rosemary, Pines, and Conifers, offers an invigorating woodsy aroma of fresh pines and Christmas. Myrcene, found in Bay, Thyme, and Lemongrass, has a musky and clove-like smell. Spicy and woody-smelling Beta-Caryophyllene is found in Black pepper, Cloves, Hops, Basil, Rosemary, and Oregano. Citral and D-Limonene, both refreshing and invigorating, are found in Citrus fruit; Citral is also found in Lemongrass and Lemon Myrtle. Linalool has a fresh floral smell and is found in Lavender, Basil, Hops, and Bay leaf. Eucalyptol smells like menthol and is found in Eucalyptus.
Function
Many culinary spices such as Cloves, Black pepper, Oregano, Basil, Lemon, and Lavender are sought after for their terpene content. Terpenes are FDA approved as safe for use as flavoring in food and candy. Botanicals used to make incense and perfumes such as Pine, Frankincense, and Citrus also contain terpenes. Each terpene has unique properties and interactions with the nervous system and the human body, and terpenes as a whole are responsible for many of the immediate actions of aromatic herbs. Alpha-Pinene may support healthy mental focus and energy levels.* Beta-Caryophyllene, Citral, D-Limonene, and Linalool may support a healthy nervous system response to stress and a healthy mood.* D-Limonene is also energizing and may support digestive function.* Eucalyptol is invigorating and may support healthy respiratory function.* Linalool and Myrcene are found in herbs that have traditionally been used to support sleep and a healthy inflammatory response.* Beta-Caryophyllene is known as a cannabinomimetic, as it has the ability to bind to CB2 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system and thus may support a healthy inflammatory response.* Myrcene also has the ability to interact with CB1 receptors and enhances the cannabinoid activity in the body.* Researchers hypothesize that terpenes commonly found in Hemp work synergistically with the full spectrum of cannabinoids in their interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system, creating what is known as an ‘entourage effect’.*
Uses of Botanical Terpene Blend
This information in our Herbal Reference Guide is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.