Cannabis Terpenes and Pain Management

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are naturally occurring aromatic compounds found in most plants. They contribute to the distinctive scents and flavors of plants, such as sage, lavender, eucalyptus, and citrus. Most plants have only two dominant terpenes; however, approximately 400 terpenes are found in cannabis.

Cannabis terpenes and pain management

Research into the role of terpenes in pain management is still developing, but several promising avenues have been explored.

• Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects
  Some terpenes have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain associated with chronic inflammation.
• Pain perception modulation
  Terpenes may influence pain perception through various mechanisms, including interaction with the endocannabinoid system (which plays a role in regulating pain, inflammation, and mood).
• Synergistic effects
  The “entourage effect” theory suggests that terpenes and cannabinoids may work together synergistically to enhance therapeutic effects. This means that the combined action of terpenes and cannabinoids might be a more effective pain management tool than cannabinoids or terpenes alone.

Terpenes in cannabis

Research suggests that certain terpenes may offer relief from chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain, either alone or in combination with cannabinoids (e.g., THC and CBD). A few terpenes commonly associated with pain relief include the following:

• Myrcene gives cannabis its musky, earthy smell; it has sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Limonene is a citrus-scented terpene. Studies show that it has anxiety-reducing and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Beta-pinene is a pine-scented terpene. Studies show that it may have anti-inflammatory and antidepressant effects.
• Beta-caryophyllene emits a spicy or peppery scent; It is a unique terpene because it interacts with cannabinoid receptors, potentially reducing pain levels and improving mood.

Side effects and safety

One of the advantages of using terpenes for pain management is their relatively mild side effect profile. Studies show that side effects of terpenes tend to be few and easily manageable.

Unlike some pain medications, which can have significant side effects and addiction potential, terpenes generally have a low risk of addiction (as they do not produce euphoria). Euphoria is a common side effect of many pain medications, especially those that have addictive potential. The absence of such effects suggests that terpenes could provide pain relief with a lower risk of addiction and other negative effects compared to conventional pain medications.

Studies show that certain terpenes may enhance the pain-relieving effects of opioids. Because of the non-addictive nature of terpenes, they may not only enhance the pain relief effect of opioids but also reduce the abuse potential of opioids. It is possible, also, that the same amount of pain relief could be achieved with lower doses of opioids and fewer side effects when opioids and terpenes are combined.

The bottom line

Initial studies on the use of terpenes for chronic pain management are promising. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of terpenes and the optimal dosages and methods of administration to achieve the best therapeutic outcomes.

Additional source: University of Arizona Health Sciences