Terpenes are compounds produced by plant species that are responsible for determining their distinct scents. They play a protective role in plants and are known through comprehensive research to have multiple health-promoting properties in humans. Studies show that specific terpenes may be used as anticancer agents, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidants, antiallergic, neuroprotective, sedative, analgesic, and more. These findings become especially meaningful when considering conditions that are highly debilitating and often incurable or current pharmacological therapies have unwanted side effects. 

Over 100 million ambulatory care visits annually in the United States are due to digestive diseases. In recent years, natural products have been studied as alternative therapies for disorders that affect the gastrointestinal tract, due to their wide structural diversity and biological activities. The potent anti-inflammatory actions of terpenes make them promising candidates for those gastrointestinal disorders that are characterized by inflammation, such as Irritable bowel diseases (IBD). Several terpenes have been evaluated in models of IBD and have shown to have intestinal anti-inflammatory activity. 

Specific terpenes may help by preventing oxidative stress, combating dysbiosis, restoring intestinal permeability, and improving the inflammation process in different signaling pathways. 

Among those researched terpenes are:

Alpha-Phellandrene/Phellandrene

This common monoterpene is found in several essential oils for a good reason. It shows extensive biological activity to include anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antidepressant, and analgesic properties. Historically used in Chinese medicine for digestive issues, this monoterpene is also found in turmeric and eucalyptus. 

Borneol 

Used in traditional Chinese medicine, Borneol has shown pharmacological activity as an anti-inflammatory, vasorelaxant, and neuroprotectant. 

B-Carotene

Often found in the human diet metabolically converted to Vitamin A, B-Carotene is known as an effective antioxidant. 

Carvacrol

This monoterpene has several pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, antinociceptive, and gastroprotective. Findings from one study indicated that administration of carvacrol reduced inflammation and oxidative damage in the model studied. 

Geraniol

Found in essential oils of aromatic plants, including Cinnamomum tenuipilum and Valeriana officinalis, Geraniol holds antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, gastroprotective activity, and gastric healing. Results from a study showed that when administered daily, Geraniol was a powerful antimicrobial agent, able to prevent dysbiosis associated with colitis and reduce the inflammatory profile of colictic animals. 

Limonene

Limonene is one of nature’s most common terpenes, found in orange, lemon, mandarin, lime, and grapefruit, it can decrease oxidative stress and inflammation, has potential benefits for colon cancer, antibacterial activity, and anti-nausea properties. 

Menthol

A major constituent in the essential oils of Mentha canadensis L. (mint) and M. x piperita L. (peppermint), Menthol’s pharmacological activities include analgesia, limiting bladder hyperactivity, and as an antioxidant. 

Nerol

Nerol is a major component of essential oils from spices such as neroli, rose, and lavender with antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. The therapeutic potential of Nerol can be seen in one study that showed a beneficial effect in colitis, involving tissue protection, antinociception, and immune system modulation. 

Paeoniflorin

This monoterpene is purified from the Chinese herb Paeonia lactiflora. Biological activities include its potential to have anti-cancer activity, reduced blood viscosity, anti-inflammatory activity and to reduce oxidative stress.

Thymol

Thymol is found in plant species such as thyme with pharmacological activities as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal, and antitumor. It has also been studied for its ability to modulate the endocannabinoid system (ECS).  Results from one study showed that Thymol can be a promising agent for improving ulcerative colitis. 

Reported data for certain terpenes is promising and suggests therapeutic potential. However there is still a lot of research to be done. Before beginning any alternative therapies, consulting with a medical professional is always recommended. 

There is a lot to consider when starting cannabinoid therapy and a Realm of Caring care specialist is here to help with your questions. Contact us today by calling (719) 347-5400 or by emailing info@realmofcaring.org.