Plant Medicine is the most unique medicines in the world. Unlike others, the chemicals within plants perfectly imitate those already in your body. In fact, we have an entire system within us devoted to plant-medicine receptors. Because of this, plant medicine is truly a holistic medicine that can be used to treat a mind-boggling number of illnesses. But how does it actually work?
How does it all work?
A cannabinoid is any chemical that interacts with your endocannabinoid system, a collection of receptors that act as “locks” which are activated by specific “keys.” This system deals with inflammation, pain, appetite, mood, and so much more. Cannabinoids are the specific “keys” to this system, and they interact with 2 different types of receptors in your endocannabinoid system, CB1 receptors found in the brain, and CB2 receptors in the body.
Your body creates cannabinoids all the time that activate these receptors. These are called endocannabinoids.
The cannabis plant produces chemicals called phytocannabinoids. These cannabinoids mimic the shape of endocannabinoids, and are able to fit into the “lock” or receptor of the endocannabinoid system, and activate it. It is thought that a lot of diseases may be caused by an imbalance in these endocannabinoids, and so extra cannabinoids in the form of phytocannabinoids can be used to restore the endocannabinoid system to full health.
So, What are Terpenes?
These chemicals are shared amongst plants and give them their fragrance and taste. These are the chemicals that make cannabis strains have their specific taste. For example, strains high in limonene taste like citrus, whilst strains high in terpinolene taste like sweet petroleum-you have to taste it to believe it! More than just making our strains taste amazing, terpenes also give strains their specific effect. Strains high in limonene and terpinolene are noted to be more “uplifting” and mentally-stimulating, whilst strains high in myrcene and caryophyllene result in complete muscle-relaxation, and even increase the amount of THC in the bloodstream. This is why at The Flowery we strive to produce the tastiest, most fragrant flowers, because we know that this will not only result in the optimum smoking experience, but also have the maximum medical effects and benefits.
For your reference, a list of common terpenes and their flavors/effects are listed below.
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Alpha-Pinene
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Flavors: Pine, rosemary
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Effects: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, aids memory and breathing
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Beta - Caryophyllene
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Flavors: Citrus, oily, spicy
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Effects: Anti-inflammatory, cell-protectant
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Caryophyllene Oxide
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Flavors: Clove, peppery, spicy, woody
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Effects: Antifungal
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Phytol
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Flavors: Creamy, earthy, floral, vanilla
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Effects: Anti-insomnia
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Nerolidol
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Flavors: Berry, floral, sweet, woody
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Effects: Sedative, anti-fungal, skin protectant
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Limonene
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Flavors: Citrus, juniper, lemon, peppermint, rosemary, tangerine
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Effects: Immune stimulant, antidepressant, anti-anxiety
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Linalool
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Flavors: Candy, spice, floral, herbal
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Effects: Anti-anxiety, anticonvulsant, sedative
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