Terpenes Wiki

Terpenes are diverse class of organic compounds which are produced by variety of plants. Terpenese are used to combat parasites in plants. The name terpene is derived from turpentine. The terpenes in marijuana have given the plant an evolutionary advantage. These essential oils are strong enough to repel insects and animal grazers and some also help prevent fungus. Organic pot growers spray terpene-rich oils to prevent disease and infestation.

Alpha-pinene (essential pine oil), the most common terpene in the plant world and one often found in cannabis, is helpful for asthmatics. Pinene also promotes alertness and memory retention by inhibiting the metabolic breakdown of acetylcholinesterase. Myrcene is a terpene which is a sedative, a muscle relaxant, a hypnotic, an analgesic (painkiller) and an anti-inflammatory compound.

Limonene, a major terpene in citrus as well as in cannabis, has been used clinically to dissolve gallstones. Limonene terpene also improves mood and relieve heartburn and gastrointestinal reflux. This terpene in studies have shown to destroy breast-cancer cells, and its powerful antimicrobial action can kill pathogenic bacteria.