Q) OK … so myrcene for example is said to increase bioavailability and efficacy. Beta-Caryophyllene is the only terpene discovered to date that binds with our endogenous cannabinoid system. Would I be on the right track to think that these two terpenes combined in the right ratio or mix in theory could be instrumental for delivery methods including edibles and beverages?
reminiscence that occurs when considering positive past experiences with a certain product.
A) There are over 100 additional mono- and sesquiterpenes that have been reported to accumulate in Cannabis and it is the strain-specific blend of these specific terpenes that determines their unique bouquet, and ultimately drive consumer preference. When ingested, these volatile terpenes readily cross the blood-brain barrier and it is widely believed that these terpenes have the potential to participate in herbal synergy along with THC and various CBDs to influence the user outcome. For instance, when the monoterpene limonene is added to THC, users report the experience to be more ‘cerebral and euphoric’, while in comparison, the addition of another monoterpene myrcene afforded users a more ‘physically mellow or sleepy’ sensation. While not experimentally verified, this so-called ‘entourage effect’ that Cannabis terpenes possess does however have biochemical/neurological precedence: The sesquiterpene β-caryophyllene, which accumulates to high levels in a variety of Cannabis strains, selectively binds to the Cannabinoid receptor type II (CB2) and acts as a CB2 agonist, which means that it activates the receptor to create a biological response. The CB2 receptor has been linked to a therapeutic target to relieve inflammation, pain, atherosclerosis, and osteoporosis. So the question is absolutely relevant, it just needs to be experimentally verified.
Q) Ok … could an LP use terpenes as a work around the 35% THC Cap – I mean if myrcene when combined with cannabis increases the efficacy … or is the amount of myrcene needed for any material effect just to substantial?
A) It’s unclear right now if myrcene (or any other terpene for that matter) has the potential to function as a herbal synergist for THC delivery. The question is complicated by the fact that there are dozens of other terpenes that are present in Cannabis that could contribute to this observation. Due to complex blend of terpenes
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