Terpenes & Flavonoids

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds found in many plants, vegetables and fruits, including hemp. These aromatic compounds are mainly responsible for producing distinctive scents and also have important functions for the plants, including protection against infectious bacteria and pests.

References: Terpenes

What are flavonoids?

Like terpenes, flavonoids are another type of naturally occurring compounds found in hemp, fruits and vegetables. Flavonoids vary depending on the color of the plant and are most commonly found in the outer part of the plant, especially in or just under the peel. For example, when you peel an apple, you lose a significant part of its antioxidant content because it is concentrated in the peel. The same applies to the white skin around the orange cloves.

Active flavonoids found in plants such as hemp include Orientin, Quercetin, Silymarin and Kaempferol, which have anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antioxidant properties. Further research is needed to understand their full potential.

References: Parkinson's and Flavonoids

The Difference Between Terpenes & Flavonoids

Both terpenes and flavonoids contribute to the aroma and taste of the hemp/fruit. The main difference lies in their functions: terpenes are mainly responsible for the aromas, while flavonoids contribute to the color of the plant.

Different Types Of Terpenes

There are many terpenes in the hemp plant, some of the most common include:

Limonene
Gives a fresh citrus scent and is also found in citrus fruits such as lemon and orange, and in herbs such as rosemary and cumin. Has anti-inflammatory and stimulating properties.

Effects: Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Relaxing, Invigorating
Also found in: Lime, Lemon, Orange Peel, Rosemary and Peppermint

Pines
Provides a fresh scent found in plants such as pine, citrus fruits and basil. Claimed to have therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties.

Effects: Anti-inflammatory, Relaxing, Antiseptic, Anti-depressant
Also found in: Pine, Citrus and Basil

Myrcene
A common terpene that gives hemp its earthy aroma and is also found in lemongrass, thyme and mango. Has muscle relaxant and sleep-promoting properties.

Effects: Muscle relaxant, Helps with insomnia, Anti-inflammatory.
Also found in: Thyme, Cardamom, Mango and Hops

linalool
Common in lavender and provides a calming effect. Also found in mint and cinnamon and widely used in aromatherapy.

Effects: Soothing, Strengthens the immune system
Also found in: Lavender and Cinnamon

caryophyll
Provides an intense, spicy scent and is found in herbs such as black pepper, rosemary and cloves. Has anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties.

Effects: Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Relaxing
Also found in: Black pepper, Rosemary, Cloves