*Produced in partnership with Trulieve Cannabis Dispensary
Terpenes are produced in a wide variety of plants. Their primary function in Nature is as an insect repellent, keeping plants “safe” from the damage that comes along with unwanted pests.
Inhaling terpenes, either by smoking, vaping or simply “smelling” cannabis flowers (buds), can have an intense effect on human physiology. As a result of their swift actions on the central nervous system, therapeutic effects have been described even in instances when these molecules are barely detectable in the bloodstream.
Oral and topical administration of cannabis products also stimulate effects in the body. Terpenes present in each cannabis cultivar (strain) contribute to their therapeutic effect. Science has been essential in helping us understand how terpenes can assist in enhancing health and wellbeing.
Today, we will take a closer look at the terpene Valencene.
What is Valencene?
Valencene is a sesquiterpene, reported to induce an elevation of mood as well as euphoria. As its name implies, Valencene is found most commonly in Valencia oranges. It emits a full range of citrusy fragrances, reminiscent of: oranges, tangerines, grapefruit and subtle tones of mango. Natural Valencene is used as a flavoring for beverages and is oftentimes added to perfumes & fragrances.
Known for its ability to deter both ticks and mosquitos, it is a common ingredient found in insect repellents. There is also evidence that this terpene acts as an anti-inflammatory, is a skin protectant and can even enhance the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs.
Other Sources of Valencene in Nature:
Other sources of valencene include citrus fruits, olive oil, and of course, Valencia oranges. It is also present in Chinese bayberry, historically valued as a medicinal herb.
Valencene interacts with:
Caryophyllene, humulene, and nerolidol to improve the therapeutic action of the chemotherapy drug, doxorubicin.
What does the research say?
In a 2016 study, researchers reported that extracts rich in valencene “have potential therapeutic effects on UV-induced photo-aging and indicate that the therapeutic and cosmetic applications are worth further investigation”. The study validates prior claims that it can protect the skin by reducing inflammation and promoting melanogenesis, reducing skin wrinkling. (2)
A 2017 study published in the journal, Molecules, provides evidence that valencene rich oils (also containing caryophyllene, humulene & trans-nerolidol, potentiated the effectiveness of Doxorubicin, a chemotherapy drug used to treat certain cancers. (1)
Valencene rich cannabis cultivar:
* Sour Diesel: Citrusy, earthy aromas with relaxed, uplifting and euphoric effects.
In a nutshell:
Exposure to cannabis through various forms of inhalation, orally and topically effectuates therapeutic activity in the central nervous system. Terpenes work in unison with cannabinoids and other compounds in cannabis to bring about a desired outcome.
Since it is found most abundantly in citrus fruits, it’s likely that many cannabis consumers have experienced this aroma, perhaps while strolling through a fruit and vegetable market or while shopping for produce in the grocery store.
With its fresh, citrusy scent, valencene has the potential to fight inflammation, sun damage to the skin, sharpen mental acuity and even potentiate the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs.
Understanding a cultivars (strains) predominant terpene profile, can help guide patients in choosing products that will be effective in helping them control symptoms and better manage their healthcare conditions, maximizing the therapeutic benefits cannabis may provide.
* This information is not intended as medical advice, it is for educational purposes only.
References:
- Ambroz, A., Matouskova, P., et. al. (2017). The Effects of Selected Sesquiterpenes from Myrica rubra Essential Oil on the Efficacy of Doxorubicin in Sensitive and Resistant Cancer Cell Lines. Molecules. 22(6):1021.
- Nam, J., Nam, D., et. al. (2016). Valencene from the Rhizomes of Cyperus rotundus Inhibits Skin Photoaging-Related Ion Channels and UV-Induced Melanogenesis in B16F10 Melanoma Cells. Journal of Natural Products. 79(4):1091-6.
Sulak, D. (2020) Chapter 3. Medical Cannabis Core Curriculum. healer.com