A Guide for Folks When Using Terpene Products

Terpene is a natural compound found in both plants and animals. It is, however, primarily contained in plants. Tea, thyme, and citrus fruits such as lemon, orange, and mandarin are familiar plant sources of terpenes.

Terpene medicinal uses and benefits

· Treatment of cancer and other diseases

Terpenes have a wide range of medicinal uses. Perhaps the most popular benefit derived from them has something to do with their potential to serve as anticancer and antidiabetic reagents. Curcumin, a type of terpene, has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antiseptic, and digestive properties. Meanwhile, monoterpenes – a group of terpenes – are widely studied for their antiviral property.

· Antibacterial

Studies suggest that terpene has antibacterial and antifungal potentials. Thyme, a plant that synthesizes terpene alcohols and phenols, exhibits such powerful properties.

Anti-inflammatory

Terpene also relieves pain and inflammation. Research shows that it allows for flexibility in the administration and suppression of side effects.

· Antimicrobial

Used in both traditional and modern medicine, terpenes are the main component of antibiotics, as they are known to have antimicrobial potentials. Terpene-based spices such as sage, rosemary, caraway, and clove possess antimicrobial properties.

· Antidepressant

Apart from monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes (another group of terpenes) have been shown to display antidepressant effects.

· Sleep aid

Studies show that myrcene, a type of terpene found in mangoes and basil, produces sedative effects. In one study, myrcene was found to increase the sleep duration of mice. Beta-caryophyllene, another type of terpene, helps reduce pain related to the nervous system. Essentially, terpene induces deep sleep, promoting undisturbed rest.

Terpene and alternative medicine

Interestingly, the discovery of the medicinal potentials of terpenes dates back to ancient times. According to the US National Library of Medicine, certain terpenes have been widely used in natural folk medicine. Not surprisingly, plants used in traditional Chinese medicine are being extensively studied for their therapeutic properties.

Modern medication continues to use terpene on a large scale. Tea tree oil, which has been used as a traditional medicine for centuries, has increased in popularity in recent years. Famous for its antimicrobial properties, it is an essential oil used to treat skin infections.

Terpene products

Terpenes are responsible for the fragrance, taste, and pigment of plants where they are found. They are extracted and later processed into products that come in a variety of forms:

· Supplements (powders, pills, capsules)

· Edibles (flower/bud)

· Tinctures (extracts)

· Topicals (salves, creams, lotions)

· Beverages (teas, carbonated water)

· Aromatherapy (candles, oils, pillow/room sprays)

Terpene use among seniors

There is a rising number of older adults and senior citizens consuming terpene-based products. This finding makes sense, as many seniors have serious health concerns for which terpenes might be helpful. For instance, the positive effect of terpenes on pain signaling offers medical and wellness benefits for older adults. Also, the anti-inflammatory agents in terpenes can help reduce joint and tissue swelling among seniors.

We recommend the following tips for seniors when using terpene products:

1. Use the proper dose

The dosing need depends on your illness and how fast you want to achieve results. For instance, if you have arthritis, experts recommend consuming the product twice a day through sublingual administration (placing the product under your tongue).

Experts emphasize that it is crucial to be cautious about increasing your dosage. Researchers are still working to determine the dosing needs for different conditions. For now, people base their dosage on the individual experiences of other users. As a general rule, you should start with the lowest dose possible and increase it gradually until you find the right amount.

Also, the form of terpene product can determine how much you need. For example, gummies may contain a dose of 5 milligrams in each gummy, while a tincture may have a milligram in each drop.

2. Different products have different durations of effectivity

Edibles can take longer hours to take effect because they are absorbed through your digestive tract. Meanwhile, products taken in sublingually produce an immediate effect.

A salve or a similar topical product will take about 45 to 60 minutes to take effect, while a tincture will take effect about 15 to 45 minutes after you spray it under your tongue.

Typically, tinctures and edibles taken under the tongue provide sustained medical benefits for senior consumers with chronic health concerns. Such particular terpene products will likely be full-spectrum, providing whole-plant benefits.

3. Terpene should not be a replacement for medication

Terpene products should not be used as a replacement for any medication, or in addition to any existing medication, without first consulting your doctor.

Drug interactions may cause adverse side effects if you use terpene products without carefully weighing them against other medications you’re currently taking. A proper assessment will help avoid any unintended consequences that may result in intoxication. Based on the accounts of senior consumers, these risks can be avoided with careful product dosing and proper monitoring of medication schedule.

General trends in terpene use among seniors

Finding the appropriate terpene product for you will depend on what you need and how you’re comfortable consuming it.

Here are some general trends to consider:

Terpene-based topicals provide controlled application since they come in the form of lotions and creams.

Terpene-infused teas and other beverages contain higher doses, which are recommended for nighttime relaxation and sleep support. However, these drinkable infusions might be overconsumed when improperly portioned. Experiment with these drinkable products only when you’re familiar with your most comfortable dose or portions.

· You can choose to make your edibles. This approach allows you to control your dosage, terpene ratio, and other ingredients, which you can tailor specifically for your dietary need.

Use what best works for you

No single product is a suitable treatment for any or all unique health needs. Thus, finding the best terpene product for your medical and wellness needs depends on your case. In deciding which product to consume, it is essential to consider your current health condition, your needs based on the illness you’re experiencing, and how you’re comfortable consuming the product. This way, the potential benefits of terpenes can be maximized.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.