Are Terpenes Bad for You: Potential Adverse Effects

Published on October 8, 2024

Terpenes are organic compounds found in cannabis and other plants, contributing to their flavor, aroma, and color.
While terpenes can enhance mood and well-being, concentrated terpenes can be harmful.
High doses of concentrated terpenes can lead to skin irritation, respiratory issues, and other health problems.
To use terpenes safely, they should be diluted with carrier oils and handled with protective gear.

Terpenes are organic compounds that are naturally present in cannabis plants and other beneficial plants across the globe. When purchasing cannabis-based items, you will almost always hear about terpenes, such as how they make the product “better, more flavorful, and more aromatic.” Many people are unaware of the potential dangers of improper terpene usage. It would be ideal to always dilute terpenes before using them. You can use terpenes safely by following these guidelines.

Terpenes Are Exactly What they Sound Like

Terpenes are produced by all plants, including the ugliest weeds and the most appetizing fruit-bearing trees or gorgeous floral plants. People know terpenes as the aromatic compounds found in every species of plant.

These are said to be the essential oils naturally produced by plants that give them a distinct flavor, aroma, and color.

Terpenes come in a wide variety of forms, each distinguished by their size and distinct chemical composition. Either monoterpenes, diterpenes, triterpenes, alcohols, or ketones make up the majority of terpenes.

Terpenes are tiny molecules with a low boiling point. At comparatively low temperatures, they evaporate into the atmosphere. Then, they can be detected by the nose’s olfactory receptors, giving rise to the sensation we associate with an aroma.

Are Terpenes Bad For You?

Terpenes provide many advantages. Eating terpene-rich fruits and plants may improve one’s mood and energy levels while also promoting physical and mental well-being.

But, there are risks associated with terpene use as well, particularly when they’re pure and concentrated.

At high doses, terpenes can relax blood vessel walls, leading to hypotension (low blood pressure) and vertigo. Concentrated versions may be harmful to cells, resulting in discomfort, inflammation, and other side effects.

Always dilute terpenes before use. When terpenes are diluted (to 5% or less), they are harmless and non-toxic.

In short, while terpenes can pose health risks at higher concentrations, consuming the natural amount of terpenes in food or cannabis is generally considered safe.

Which Terpenes Are Most Common, and What Effects Do They Have?

Though over 30,000 distinct terpenes are produced by nature, only a small number have received extensive research to date.

1. Limonene

This common terpene smells slightly flowery with lemony and spicy undertones. Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and limes, are plentiful there. The energizing scent makes you feel more rested, awake and invigorated.

When limonene is consumed undiluted, it can irritate the skin and lead to dermatitis.

2. Myrcene

Myrcene smells earthy and musky, with hints of fruit and herb. It can induce drowsiness and relaxation.

High myrcene dosages can lower blood pressure, which can make people feel lightheaded or dizzy.

3. Camphene

This earthy, musky terpene has a refreshing impact. However, extremely high doses can result in skin blistering, redness, and allergic responses.

3. Eucalyptol

This terpene is also well-known for having a cooling, energizing, and refreshing impact. In sensitive people, high eucalyptol concentrations can cause asthma episodes.

4. Caryophyllene

This terpene lifts your spirits and increases your energy levels while emitting a woodsy, spicy, and peppery scent.

Caryophyllene in extremely concentrated dosages can lead to blisters and rashes on the skin or mucous membranes.

5. Pinene

This terpene gives pine needles their energizing and refreshing scent. Its refreshing aroma helps support renewed attention and energy.

Extremely high pinene concentrations can make you feel lightheaded and unwell overall.

How to Safely Use Terpenes

For millennia, humans have consumed terpenes. Terpenes are present in both the foods we eat, such as fruits and vegetables, and the herbal remedies we use.

Terpenes have only ever been found in the plant sources where they are created. These days, terpenes are more potent due to our availability of ultra-pure, concentrated forms, but they also carry a higher risk of injury if misused.

Always wear gloves and safety glasses when handling concentrated terpenes, and make sure the area you’re working in has enough ventilation.

This is specific to working with concentrated terpenes. Terpenes can be used safely once diluted.

1. Reducing Terpene Levels

Terpenes should always be diluted before use by combining them with carrier oils such as hemp, coconut, olive, or cannabis oil.

Examine the suitable dilution, which is often less than 5% of the entire volume, prior to incorporating into food, base extract, or oil.

Speak with a certified herbalist if you have any questions about the safety of the terpene and the appropriate dilution. They can assist you with dilution and safe terpene consumption with food.

2. Wear Protective Gear

Cannabis-derived terpenes are a necessary component of many topical treatments. In addition to adding scent, they can also help moisturize the skin to keep it smooth and healthy.

Make sure you use safety eyewear and gloves if you plan to add terpenes to topical products.

Pure terpenes have the potential to harm skin cells, trigger skin allergies, irritate the skin, including contact dermatitis, and even harm the mucous membrane of your eyes.

If your skin or eyes are irritated, rinse them well with clean, warm water. If symptoms worsen, seek professional medical attention immediately at the emergency hospital.

3. Refrain from Directly Inhaling Concentrated Terpenes

As with any work involving concentrated terpenes, ensure sufficient ventilation. Pure, concentrated terpenes can irritate and injure the lungs when inhaled, and they can do more harm if they enter the bloodstream.

Certain terpenes, like methacrolein and benzene, are also directly poisonous.

Even though none of our blends have any harmful terpenes, it’s still imperative that you avoid using them in small spaces with inadequate ventilation.

4. Verify Independent Laboratory Reports Before Purchasing

Terpenes themselves are not necessarily harmful, but products that are contaminated or of low quality can pose health risks. To ensure that your terpenes are both potent and pure, follow these guidelines.

Purchase only tested terpenes; to ensure purity, look for independent lab findings.
Read consumer comments and reviews to learn more about the source, the product, and the business. Above all, select only items that have been evaluated in laboratories.
Avoid using off-label products since you cannot guarantee their efficacy, safety, or quality.

What differentiates Terpenes From Cannabinoids?

Terpenes and cannabinoids. Many times, individuals mistakenly believe the two are interchangeable.

They’re not.

Cannabinoids and cannabis terpenes are found in the trichomes, or resin glands, on flowers and leaves. Every cannabis strain has a different amount of terpene, which gives it its own distinct flavors, aromas, and effects. Similar to terpenes, cannabinoids aid in the growth and development of plants and act as a defense mechanism.

Cannabinoids are only found in a cannabis plant; no other plants produce them.

Another difference between the two is their interaction with your cells.

Certain cell receptors are impacted by terpenes and cannabinoids, which can change how those receptors respond to stimuli.

Cannabinoids, on the other hand, activate the endocannabinoid system by binding to receptors, but terpenes, with the exception of one, do not. THC and delta 8 THC are examples of psychoactive cannabinoids that have intoxicating, mind-altering effects when they bind to the CB1 receptor.

However, terpenes are unable to connect to cannabinoid receptors. This is the reason why conventional terpenes won’t make you feel high.

Final Thoughts: Are Terpenes Bad for You?

In general, the terpenes found in food are safe. But when they’re concentrated and pure, they can be harmful. When they come into touch with the skin or eyes, they can irritate the skin and trigger allergic reactions. When present in large enough quantities, they can also harm organs.

But if you utilize pure terpenes safely and properly, they offer a number of beneficial health effects.

When handling full-strength terpenes, it is advised to always wear gloves and goggles and ensure enough ventilation. Terpenes should always be diluted to a volume of no more than 5% for the finished product.

Are Terpenes Bad - Shop Cannabis BioWellnessX

Legal Disclaimer:
By reading this information presented, you agree to release the author of any liability that comes from using this data. This post does not constitute legal advice. Claims about cannabinoids have not yet been approved by the Food and drug administration FDA. Read the full legal disclaimer here.

Other Articles That May Interest You

Resources:

FAQs About Terpenes and Potential Risks

How do terpenes affect the flavor and aroma of plants?

Terpenes affect the flavor and aroma of plants by contributing distinct scents and tastes. They play a key role in the sensory experience of various plants, influencing how humans perceive them.

How do terpenes differ from one another?

Terpenes differ in their chemical structures, which results in unique aromas, flavors, and effects. For example, limonene has a citrus scent, while pinene has a piney aroma. These differences affect how each terpene interacts with the human senses and other compounds.

What are some common terpenes found in plants?

Common terpenes found in plants include limonene (citrus), pinene (pine), linalool (lavender), and myrcene (earthy). Each of these terpenes has distinct characteristics and potential benefits.

How do terpenes enhance the effects of cannabis or other plants?

Terpenes enhance the effects of cannabis and other plants by interacting with cannabinoids and other compounds. This interaction can modify or amplify the overall effects, such as altering mood or improving therapeutic benefits.

Why do plants produce terpenes?

Plants produce terpenes primarily as a defense mechanism against pests and pathogens. They also attract pollinators and can help plants adapt to their environments by influencing their interactions with other organisms.

stay informed!

Never miss an article again! We'll send you a notification whenever a new article is published.

Our Latest articles