Are you looking to brush up on your CBD knowledge? Then welcome, reader – you have come to the right place! Terpenes can often be an often-overlooked subject when it comes to CBD oil research, and this only makes it all the more interesting to examine. In this article, we will uncover everything that you need to know about terpenes and the fantastic benefits that they bring to CBD oil use. We will also give you some brilliant examples of how you can add CBD oil to your life, and how at VAAY, we pride ourselves on creating wholly natural and organic CBD with you in mind.
What is CBD oil?
Before we get sucked into the beautiful-smelling world of terpenes, let's kick things off by answering the all-important question: what is CBD oil? CBD oil is made from hemp plants, otherwise known as cannabis Sativa plants. Cannabidiol is the full name for CBD (for those of you wishing to impress), and it makes up one of over 100 compounds residing in the plant. It's likely that you have also heard of a compound called Tetrahydrocannabinol, known as THC for short. This compound holds psychotropic properties; therefore, it can influence a person's mood. However, you can rest easy – CBD itself holds no psychotropic qualities. This is why it's found in many different products, from coffee and gummies, all the way to shampoo and bath bombs. The CBD is extracted from the cannabis plant (typically cannabis Sativa), and then it's diluted using a carrier oil; popular varieties include avocado oil, coconut oil, and hemp seed oil.
The VAAY way
Here at VAAY, we adore getting creative with our CBD products, but no matter the product you choose, the quality of our CBD oil remains the same. Your safety and enjoyment of CBD oil is our priority, with all our products being lab-tested and certified, and all of our hemp plants are grown in the EU. This means that we have followed the strict agricultural laws and cultivation guidelines. All VAAY products are entirely natural and vegan, meaning that you can enjoy CBD guilt-free, as you are not only choosing better for you, but for the planet as well. What more could you want? Take our CBD Mouth Spray, for example. It contains our organic CBD, using MCT oil from coconut as a carrier oil and it contains full-spectrum hemp extract, meaning all of the natural goodness is retained from the hemp plant. What's more, it's stupidly simple and easy to use on the go, thanks to its discreet application pump. All you need to do is pump twice into your mouth, twice per day, holding the liquid underneath your tongue for a moment, as this allows you to feel the effects of the CBD oil quicker.
What are terpenes?
'Terpenes' is a bit of a strange word, right? You're probably expecting some significant scientific explanation to lie behind the word, but that's not the case! Interestingly (unless you live in the Arctic), you will have been surrounded by terpenes before and not even realised it, but the chances are that you will have definitely appreciated them from time to time- even without knowing them by name.
We have kept you in suspense for too long, so what are terpenes? Put simply, terpenes are natural oils found in plants, and these can give off wonderful, beguiling smells. There are over 100 official terpenes that have been identified in the cannabis plant so far, and they are all unique. Fun fact: just like other flowers and plants, terpenes were developed naturally in order to repel predators and to attract creatures to make pollen. Terpenes are especially useful in therapeutic products, as they produce scents, and they may also hold the power to influence how we feel. For example, lavender has long been thought to be associated with calm and relaxation – therefore, it's included in the ingredients of many bathing products.
Why are terpenes important?
Sure, terpenes can give off stunning smells, but what's their significance when it comes to the realm of CBD? Well, it's all about teamwork! CBD itself holds many potential benefits, such as promoting feelings of calm, aiding in sleep, balancing skin health, and more. However, combining this with terpenes only helps CBD to work better. Are you a coffee drinker? If yes, just think of it as terpenes as kicking you into focus and helping you to be able to work more productively! The point is that terpenes allow CBD to really shine. This is known as the entourage effect. This refers to all of the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids working together in collaboration to increase its therapeutic potential. This is why some people prefer to consume full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD, as it is the least artificially-influenced type of CBD.
Types of terpenes
As we previously mentioned, some types of terpenes are more famous than others, and they can be found in many wellness products. These famous terpenes are sometimes called 'The Great Eight', and we can sure see why! Let's introduce you to them, shall we?
Limonene
We're kicking things off with limonene, as this terpene is super famous – think of it as the Beyoncé of the terpenes world. Think this word sounds like 'lemon'? Then gold star to you, as this is one of the most citrus-scented terpenes out there. It comes from citrus fruits, and it is often linked to lemons, oranges, and limes. It's particularly prominent in the rinds of these fruits, while also being an essential oil. This scent is super popular in a range of wellness products, such as body scrubs, bath scents, and skincare products, thanks to its refreshing and rejuvenating fragrance. You can also find it in many cleaning products – as it leaves behind that clean and fresh smell. This terpene does more than just smell good though, as there's been a great deal of research dedicated to its possible benefits. For example, in animal studies, it has demonstrated its potential anti-inflammatory effects. One study, published in 2017, found that limonene treatment for rats with the disease ulcerative colitis significantly reduced their symptoms of inflammation. What's more, it could possibly help to aid in healthy digestion by protecting the stomach against ulcers. Another rat study examined this and found that citrus aurantium oil (97% limonene) had the potential to help protect the large majority of rats against symptoms of stomach ulcers. Finally, limonene may help to ease stress and feelings of anxiety in a natural manner, particularly when it's used as an aromatherapy agent.
Myrcene
Myrcene is regarded as the most dominant terpene found in the cannabis plant, and it sure has a dominant smell! It produces intense earthy aromas, not unlike cloves, leaves, the ground after rain – the list goes on! You can also find it in lemongrass and mangos, in addition to the cannabis plant. Myrcene should never be overlooked in the possible benefits that it may bring to your life, as, like limonene, it should be regarded as a multi-talented terpene. Myrcene is helpful due to its holding antioxidant properties, as it has demonstrated a potential ability to protect the brain (in mice) from symptoms of oxidative damage after a stroke. Its potential anti-inflammatory properties could also help to prevent cartilage cells from symptoms of damage. This means that myrcene could have a possible effect upon inflammation. Myrcene could also help to supplement mainstream treatment of pain naturally, and this warrants further investigation.
Linalool
It's no surprise that you'll find linalool in many beauty and wellness products, as it gives off the wonderful and calming scent of lavender. No doubt you already have a product sitting in your bathroom rich in linalool and don't even realise it – go and check now! It's present in many essential oils, such as rose, cinnamon, spearmint, and plenty more. Lavender is no new phenomenon, as people have been using it for many centuries to help promote relaxation. Linalool deserves to be recognised for more than this though, as it also has potential neuroprotective effects, possible antioxidant benefits and purported anticonvulsant effects.
Caryophyllene
We enjoy the unique and powerful scent that caryophyllene can bring to your life. It's located in cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper – and isn't a smell that you'll forget in a while, thanks to its abundant and powerful scent- potent, with a hint of spice. This is a crucial terpene, as so far researchers deem this to be the only terpene to bind with CB2 cannabinoid receptors directly. This means that the body of research into this terpene is always growing, and researchers have already identified plenty of possible benefits that it may bring. It has the potential to help to manage symptoms of pain, mood, has purported antibacterial properties and even possible anti-inflammatory effects.
Pinene
There's another gold star up for grabs here if you guessed that this terpene is related to pine trees! This terpene is intrinsically linked with nature, and therefore the smell that accompanies it is (you guessed it) an earthy, pine tree-like scent. It's basically like stepping into a pine forest! It's also worth noting that it is the most prevalent terpene that occurs in the natural world. This means that there's pretty much no way you haven't smelt it at least once in your life! So, what possible benefits can pinene bring? Plenty, if the studies are anything to go by! Research has indicated that pinene may hold potential antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. What's more, animal studies have suggested that it may hold possible anti-anxiety effects, after they inhaled the terpene for a period of time. It also holds the potential to help supplement short-term memory loss when used in conjunction with THC, as they hold the ability to work synergistically.
Ocimene
Ocimene deserves some recognition! It certainly isn't the most prominent terpene in the cannabis plant, but it does come with plenty of possible benefits, in addition to a soft and gentle herby scent. It's also present in black pepper seeds, basil, lavender, orchids, and kumquats. One study, published in 2014, suggested that ocimene possessed potential highly effective anti-inflammatory properties. Another study backs this conclusion, as an analysis of the essential oils contained in the terpene proved significant. You see, the black pepper seeds aid in the potential anti-oxidative properties of the terpene and can help to inhibit enzymes linked to diseases like hypertension and diabetes (Type 2). So, it's an all-round talented terpene!
Terpinolene
Similarly to ocimene, terpinolene isn't one of the most prevalent terpenes in cannabis, but it should never be overlooked, as it has plenty to offer you! So, what does it smell like? It gives off a gentle scent profile, full of floral and citrus notes; therefore, it will come as no surprise that it's a popular ingredient in many wellness products. It's also found in sage, lilac, apples, and tea tree oil. While it has a gentle scent, it's in no way limited when it comes to our health. One study published in 2013 reported that terpinolene had the potential to be effective at reducing unwanted or harmful cell growth in the brain. What's more, other studies have demonstrated that it may help to decrease the growth of harmful proteins within the body. It's not just your physical health that this terpene can have a helping hand in, as research demonstrates that it may potentially have a calming effect, too. This is useful for people suffering from symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Humulene
Humulene (combined with pinene and myrcene) helps to contribute to the distinctive scent of cannabis. This is thanks to its earthy and woody scent, as it is prevalent in wood and hops. It has plenty of potential benefits. One study published in 2003 reported that, when humulene works in conjunction with cannabinoids and terpenes, it has the potential to interact with cancer cells. What's more, it has been shown to possess strong possible anti-inflammatory properties. Not one to stop there, humulene has also demonstrated a potential ability to act as an appetite suppressant, although more research is needed before this can be ultimately confirmed.
Choosing the right CBD product for you
So, 'where do I begin?' we hear you wondering. The CBD oil market can feel overwhelming at times, as there are a ton of options to choose from. This can make some people feel too overwhelmed and end up mistakenly avoiding it entirely! Here at VAAY, we offer a range of organic CBD oil products, naturally infused with terpenes to potentially heighten your experience. We like to keep things simple, whilst getting a little creative! Here are just a few examples of how you can add to your wellness routine in a stress-free and straightforward manner.
Massage Oil
You can't beat our CBD Skin & Massage Oil after a long, stressful day. Simply apply the oil to your aching muscles (or have a loved one do it for you), close your eyes, and relax. Use light, circular motions for the best application, although it can be used in conjunction with a variety of massage styles. For example, if you prefer the rougher pressure of a sports massage, then go for it! The skin is our body's largest organ, and topical CBD application is rising in popularity as more and more people are beginning to add CBD to their self-care routines. Our product is not only infused with 200mg of organic CBD oil, but also almond oil and jojoba oil. These oils have many possible wellbeing benefits. For example, almond oil may be able to help reduce the appearance of scars, help reduce the overproduction of sebum oils, and it's also purported to be an anti-inflammatory agent. Jojoba oil comes with plenty of potential benefits, as it holds possible antioxidant and antibacterial properties while also anecdotally helping to soothe skin. Our massage oil also contains a warming ginger extract that helps to soothe and calm your muscles, in addition to being full of antioxidants that can help to keep your skin healthy.
CBD oil also comes with many potential wellness effects for both your body and mind. Research has demonstrated the calming properties it may have. For example, it can have a positive influence on serotonin levels in your body. Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression and anxiety. One review, published in 2018, reported that CBD oil has possible anti-stress effects, and another published in 2019 concluded that CBD holds potential antidepressant effects. These natural ingredients (ginger, almond, jojoba) create beautiful and beguiling smells that can aid in natural relaxation and detoxification. Combining this with the potential calming benefits of our organic CBD oil, and you're onto a winner! Plus, a massage can bring you closer to your loved ones, so what's not to love?
Bath Bomb
Do you dream of the end of the day, where you can finally soak all of your cares away in a luscious bubble bath? If so, then you're certainly not alone! There's nothing better, right? At VAAY, we always keep you in mind, and this is why we created our CBD Lavender Bath Bomb. So, how do you use a CBD bath bomb? It's all straightforward – simply run yourself a nice, warm bath, and place the bath bomb into the water. When the fizzing has stopped, the core of our bath bomb is released, it's packed full of oils, butter and, of course, CBD – 100mg to be exact. Allow yourself to sit back, smooth the foam all over your body, and breathe in deeply as the relaxing lavender scent is released. Allow yourself to sit back and take a moment while the CBD core sinks in and moisturises your skin. When you are ready to get out of the bath, you can wash the core off of your skin, though we recommend that you allow it to sink into your skin for a minimum of five minutes.
So, why combine CBD oil and terpenes with bath time? Well, the linalool in our bath bomb (as we have already learnt) smells of fields of lavender, and this can potentially work wonders for your mental health. The smell that it gives off allows you to create an oasis of calm with our bath bomb, and can possibly help you to soothe your anxious thoughts and worries away. CBD oil is also known to help some people curb symptoms of their anxiety. One study, published in 2011, reported that CBD oil had the potential to help individuals suffering from generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), and another study found that CBD oil may play a part in helping to manage anxiety-related insomnia.
This is excellent news for people suffering from anxiety, as searches on the internet for 'CBD oil for anxiety' have been on the up recently, as people are preferring to seek out more natural supplements for their problems. Even if you don't suffer from anxiety, you, unfortunately, can't escape the everyday stresses of life. So, taking a relaxing, CBD-infused bath can only be a good idea – especially if it can potentially help you to get some much-needed shut-eye!
Another common search is 'CBD bath bomb for pain', for people who are seeking a form of natural pain relief. The good news is that there's a great deal of research into CBD for pain. Thanks to CBD's purported anti-inflammatory properties, it may potentially help some people to manage their symptoms of pain associated with their health conditions, as well as in the management of symptoms of chronic pain. In turn, this can also improve your sleep, as you are not being constantly distracted by your pain. So, if you're seeking a possibly calming experience, then look no further than a CBD-infused bath, as you can sit back and let the comforting smells of the linalool terpene surround you and astound you.
Mouth Spray
Our CBD Mouth Spray is infused with our organic CBD, and naturally-occurring terpenes for your wellbeing. We have used coconut-based MCT oil for the carrier oil, as coconut holds many potential natural wellness benefits. For example, it is purported to affect the health of your skin, brain function, and potentially impact seizures and to appetite. What's more, there's evidence that using coconut oil as a mouthwash can help to keep your mouth healthy by killing the dangerous bacteria that can accumulate there. This can also help to minimise bad breath – and that's always a plus! Although there does need to be further research conducted into this, things look promising for coconut oil's potential to act as an antimicrobial.
What's more, consuming CBD oil in this manner is one of the fastest ways for you to reap the possible benefits. This is great for those of you seeking a possible quick relief from symptoms of stress, anxiety, and pain, and wanting a more traditional method of consumption. Plus, it's great for on-the-go use, as it's super discreet, much more so than using an oil that comes with a pipette. So, if you're seeking a fresh CBD experience with naturally-occurring terpenes and flavonoids – look no further than our mouth spray.
Hemp Candle
Finally, one of the best ways to completely immerse yourself in terpenes in all their glory is by lighting a candle! We have created our Hemp Candle with your relaxation in mind. It's made up of essential oils from the cannabis plant, and soy wax entirely free of any herbicides or pesticides. It contains one of our favourite terpenes – linalool, as well as other essential oils like hemp, cedarwood, geranium, and lavender oil. These all contribute to a beautiful, unique scent that you can enjoy again and again. We already know the purported benefits of lavender, but what about cedarwood and geranium?
Cedarwood is known for its possible sedative qualities when used as an aromatherapy treatment, meaning it has the potential to naturally send you off into a blissful night's sleep. What's more, it may also help to manage and restore your mood by reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. Geraniums potential calming effects were reported in one animal study on mice, as it was effective at reducing stress and promoting relaxation. One trial examined the effects of inhaling the oil on women in labour for the first time. Interestingly, it concluded that it had the potential to reduce their feelings of anxiety and worry! We suggest that you combine a warming CBD-infused bath with our Hemp Candle, to fully surround yourself with naturally calming and beautiful smells. Or, you could light a few of these candles and commit yourself to a session of yoga or meditation. Do you prefer to keep things simple? If so, then maybe you would prefer to simply sit in bed and read your favourite book - the possibilities are endless! Simply light the candle and inhale to ignite your inner peace and mindfulness.
So, there we have it! We hope that you have enjoyed your terpene-full education and that you now feel ready to put your new-found knowledge to the test. You can choose one or a combination of the options that we have provided for a serious selection of calm, tranquillity, and inner peace-full potential. Enjoy!
