While it's common to hear discussions about cannabinoids and cannabis terpenes, terpenes don't actually contain any CBD or THC compounds. But what's the difference when it comes to skincare?

Cannabinoids vs. Terpenes for Skincare

Cannabinoids for Skincare

Cannabinoids impact the body's cannabinoid receptors. Application to the skin is possible topically and transdermally. While studies analyzing transdermal cannabinoids aren't plentiful, the method is commonly used to deliver cannabinoids straight into the bloodstream without pushing them through the digestive system.

However, terpenes don't affect the human body the same way. But still, terpenes including myrcene, beta caryophyllene, limonene, and other popular terpenoids are coupled with cannabinoids because of their therapeutic properties.

Terpenes for Skincare

Terpenoids are the aromatic components that create the scent and flavor of bud. But, generally speaking, terpenes come from a variety of sources, including lavender, basil, thyme, and rosemary to name a few.

These natural scents have been used for centuries for various applications, including in therapeutic skincare products like The Bearded Chap Original Coffee Scrub, which contains a combination of cinnamon, peppermint, lavender, and lemon myrtle essential oils. These essential oils contain naturally occurring terps.

Even though cannabis contains terpenes, cannabinoids and terpenes are separate compounds. But both compounds are used for skincare.

Companies use these buzzwords to describe their products. Linalool and other marijuana-related compounds are in other industries, and some use these buzzwords for non-cannabis products, as well.

Marijuana or hemp plant terpenes are important for explaining the aroma of these products. However, many other plants offer noteworthy terpene profiles. Mangoes, citruses, and others produce terpenes, some of which cannabis plants also produce.

What Are CBD Terpenes, And What Do They Do For You?

CBD terpenes are cannabis-derived terpenes that are extracted from CBD-rich flowers or other parts of the plant. Companies use these to produce various types of oils for consumption and topical application.

The main difference between CBD and terpenes is terpenes aren't cannabinoids. These aromatic components enhance CBD's therapeutic effects. But while they offer scent to these products, the cannabidiol itself doesn't contribute to the aroma.

Where Can You Find Terpenes?

You can find real terpenes in marijuana. But you can find it in non-cannabis plants that don't contain THC and CBD too.

The extraction process, whether from marijuana or another plant, is the same. This usually involves breaking the plant cells down with steam to release the terps.

Hemp seed oil, for example, doesn't contain cannabinoids or terps. Thus, the benefits of CBD and THC are unavailable – unless the product manufacturer decides to add these cannabinoids to appeal to cannabis consumers.

It's no surprise that many brands focus on the terpene profile of their products, regardless of whether they use cannabis plant extracts. With THC and CBD effects so commonly associated with terps, it's important to know that terpenes and cannabinoids differ from each other.

Terpenes and cannabinoids can be found in the same plants. However, the ones that don't contain cannabinoids often offer a terpene profile too. On the other hand, some extracts – even from cannabis plants – don't have cannabis compounds or terpenoids. For example, even though Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil comes from the cannabis plants, it doesn't actually contain any CBD or THC compounds. Nor does it have any terps.

Hemp extract is commonly sold as a product comparable to CBD oil. But just because it comes from the cannabis plant doesn't mean it has anything a cannabis consumer wants. This is why it's best to buy CBD oil instead of hemp extract. If you're looking for anti inflammatory effects, you won't get them from products made with hemp extract.

How Are Cannabis Scents Made?  

While some companies create scents using real marijuana, it's possible to replicate the aroma with terps. Mimicking the pungent scent from pine trees or mangoes allows a number of non-marijuana products to offer specific strain scents without the psychoactive properties or anti-inflammatory effects of cannabinoids.

Companies that offer CBD oils use a variety of techniques to synthesize terpene profiles that smell exactly like specific cannabis strains. For instance, to get a Sour Diesel aroma, a combination of caryophyllene, d-Limonene, Myrcene, L-beta-Pinene, Linalool, L-alpha-Pinene, alpha-Terpineol and Camphene would work. This terpene concoction offers the flavor and scent of sour diesel marijuana flower without the anti inflammatory properties and couch lock effects.

Since terps are available elsewhere naturally, it's possible to extract and combine them to replicate marijuana terpene profiles without cannabinoids. For instance, our Pineapple Express Beard Oil contains terpenes isolated from the actual cannabis bud during the CBD and THC extraction process. Once the terpenes are extracted, they're blended together to recreate the aroma of fresh pineapple express flower.

Benefits Of Cannabis Terpenes

The benefits of each terp compound are often overlooked, but they're impressive nonetheless. When discussing these benefits, it’s important to mention that terps can help with migraines. Researchers have conducted studies to uncover how cannabinoids and terpenes reduce pain levels.

One study published in The Journal of Head and Face Pain highlights the evidence of various therapeutic benefits of cannabis, cannabinoids, and terpenes. The researchers found these chemicals treat pain, including migraine headaches. The evidence also points to the chemicals aiding with opioid detoxification and weaning, calling for more research to determine all of the potential.

Migraines can be debilitating to sufferers, resulting in throbbing head pains that can feel crippling. Through terpene use, some people find relief from these intense headaches without using traditional medicines like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Terpenes have also been shown to reduce anxiety and depression.

Here's a list of some beneficial cannabis plant terps and what they can do:

Myrcene

Myrcene is a terp that's most commonly found in buds. This terp is responsible for giving marijuana its unique scent; plants high in this terpenoid have relaxing properties and anti-inflammatory abilities which make them popular among medical users who wish to manage chronic pain without the use of opiates like morphine.

Limonene Terpene

Limonene is also quite abundant in certain types of flower. But it's commonly found in citrus fruits, too. With powerful antimicrobial properties, its commonly used as a household cleaner or additive for beauty products. It also helps with stress relief by enhancing moods!

Pinene

Pinene is a terpene that's been used for centuries in herbal remedies. Like the name suggest's found most abundantly in pine trees. Alpha pinenes are responsible for the pine scent of every pine tree, while beta pinene have more of an odor like rosemary or dill. Both varieties act as bronchodilators with strong anti-inflammatory effects.

Linalool

Linalool, a terpene found in lavender, is widely known for its stress-relieving effects. It can also help to balance out the anxious side effect sometimes caused by THC. This terp demands more research to determine how useful it is for treating anxiety.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is a terpene with a spicy scent. It's abundant in black pepper and cinnamon. Research shows that it's effective for treating anxiety, depression, and inflammation. It's also been shown to help the whole body feel less tense - from muscles to the organs, including the heart!

Humulene Terpene

Humulene is one compound found in some common food spices such as basil and cloves. Hops also contain it. This terpene has many benefits, including decreasing appetite. This makes it helpful for people who suffer from conditions like nausea and can promote weight loss. Humulene also offers anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for pain relief.

Benefits of Hemp Seed Oil

While different from CBD, hemp seed oil offers a host of benefits, including skin improvement.

One dermatology study revealed that consuming hemp seed oil orally treats eczema symptoms. Researchers believe this is because of the oil's fatty acids.

It's also good for treating a plethora of other skin issues. These include cradle cap, acne, and psoriasis. It also makes skin stronger and offers protection against infection.

Other benefits of hemp seed oil include how it lowers blood pressure and promotes heart health. While CBD has impressive impacts on human health, in terms of benefits that don't come from cannabinoids, the world should know about hemp seed extract.

Now that you know the difference between cannabinoids and terpenoids, you should know which you would prefer in your skincare products. With your new knowledge about cannabinoids and terpenes, you're now an informed user ready to take on the world of infused skincare! Take a closer look at the Bearded Chap's limited edition Pineapple Express Beard Oil here.