What Are Terpenes? Terpenes (pronounced tur-peens), or terpenoids, are aromatic metabolites found in the oils of all plants. Terpenes are chemical oils produced by plants that create the unique flavor, scent and effect of herbs, fruit and flowers. When smelling a flower or herb, your nose actually registers the unique terpene profile of the plant. More than 30,000 unique terpenes have been identified in plants, animals, microbes, and fungi, which create aromas and flavors. Terpenes help carry out biological functions, can serve as vitamins, pheromones, and hormones as well as influence the immune system. When combined, terpenes produce complex profiles. For example, the herb lavender smells pleasant, tastes slightly sweet and floral, and has a relaxing effect. Terpenes are secreted along with cannabinoids in the flower’s sticky resin glands. They are responsible for cannabis’ smell, flavor and contribute to its overall sensory effect. Terpenes give the Blueberry cannabis strain its berry smell, Sour Diesel its skunky smell, and Lavender its floral aroma. Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant, and every strain tends toward a unique terpene type and composition. Terpenes play a key role in differentiating the effects of various cannabis strains. Terpenoid production evolved over time in plants, including cannabis, to attract pollinators and to act as defense compounds. Female cannabis plants produce glandular trichomes, which are glands that look like small hairs or growths that protrude from the flowers and leaves. Trichomes house crucial compounds, including cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD), flavonoids, and terpenes. Terpenes and cannabinoids interact synergistically to promote relaxation and stress-relief, while others promote focus and acuity. The effect profile of a given terpene can change when combined with other terpenes and cannabinoids in a phenomenon known as the entourage effect. Research suggests that terpenes offer medicinal value as they mediate our body’s interaction with therapeutic cannabinoids. Technology has developed a method of distilling terpenes into highly concentrated forms that can be used individually or in conjunction with other terpenes. Terpene isolates are commonly used in cosmetic products, incense, food flavorings, perfumes, natural medicines and a wide variety of everyday products. Pure, isolated terpenes are highly concentrated and may pose health risks if consumed or applied to the skin with out proper dilution. Working with terpenes is shaman-like, calling on an understanding the terpene to safely unlocking their amazing potential. For instance, certain varietals are more potent than others, meaning that one dilution method cannot be applied to every type of terpene. Achieving balance can be tricky but well worth the personal learning needed. -- Beverly Potter

This concise overview of terpenes and their applications covers the structure, natural sources, biological and pharmacological effects, as well as selected total syntheses of the compound. This book includes a chapter on structure determination, as well as added information on biogenesis, polycyclic terpenes, gingkoloids and neo-hopanes. This title is an ideal introductory book for anybody starting work in this field.

So don't open this book. Don't turn a single page. Sure, you'll be entertained and instructed at first. (The first thrill is always free.) But down the line you'll find yourself eager to tell everyone the marvels of molecules. - Mitch Earleywine, PhD - Professor of Psychology, University at Albany The Big Book of Terps is the world's largest and most comprehensive resource on terpenes, flavonoids, and synergy in cannabis, with more than 600 pages, 1,300+ scientific citations, 153,000+ words, 51 quizzes, 1 final exam, and dozens of custom molecular images. This significant work includes information not previously known to the cannabis industry, as well as several discoveries not previously reported in scientific literature. Written by cannabis researcher and consultant Russ Hudson, with images by Gloria Fuentes, PhD (molecular biologist), The Big Book of Terps required more than 3 years of intensive research to compile and dissect, and features commentary by top cannabinoid and terpene researchers including Raphael Mechoulam, PhD, Ethan Russo, MD, Susan Trapp, PhD, Mitch Earleywine, PhD, and others. The Big Book of Terps includes detailed information about the top 35 terpenes found in cannabis, as well as the top 12 flavonoids, with a primary focus on evidence for synergy between these compounds and other phytochemicals including cannabinoids. Manipulation of cannabis for terpene or other constituents is also discussed. More information about this book and the work of Russ Hudson can be found at www.TheBigBookOfTerps.com.

Have you ever stepped into a forest while hiking, or taken a deep breath near the ocean and felt a clarity of mind? Did you know studies show post-surgery patients with flowers on their bed side needed less painkillers and reported less fatigue than those who did not? These are due to terpenes, a group of chemical compounds found in plants, trees, cannabis, and all throughout nature.Many people in the modern world have become disconnected from nature and its life-giving benefits, and stress, anxiety, and depression are a symptom of this disconnection. Study after study indicates the physiological and emotional benefits of connecting and interacting with nature on a daily basis. Unfortunately, we lead busy lives, in cities, with too many obligations to be able to connect with Mother Earth as much as we wish we could. Today, due to urbanization, 55% of the global population reside in urban areas and concrete jungles, and that figure is expected to rise to 68% in upcoming decades.The Terpene Book is a comprehensive guide to using terpenes for the adept and inexperienced. With expert guidance on cannabis, homemade cartridges, culinary application and plenty, plenty more, O'Leary directs the cannabis consumer to become the homemade producer. Learn how trees emit terpenes to manipulate their environment and bring themselves water, how terpenes can substitute toxic and cancer-causing commercial products, how terpenes can remedy the opioid crisis and how terpenes may be an answer to the ever-present ecological crisis.The Terpene Book concisely lays out how to use terpenes and the plethora of physiological, emotional, and behavioral benefits which we all can achieve from interacting with these natural plant compounds. Even in small doses, when one is in tune with nature, one can expect a healthier, more prosperous life, and for many, terpenes might just be the answer. With dozens of recipes for homemade products and interviews with field experts, this handbook is the perfect encapsulation of the next booming trend and market following CBD: terpenes.

This concise overview of terpenes and their applications covers the structure, natural sources, biological and pharmacological effects, as well as selected total syntheses of the compound. This book includes a chapter on structure determination, as well as added information on biogenesis, polycyclic terpenes, gingkoloids and neo-hopanes. This title is an ideal introductory book for anybody starting work in this field.

Terpenes belong to the diverse class of chemical constituents isolated from materials found in nature (plants, fungi, insects, marine organisms, plant pathogens, animals and endophytes). These metabolites have simple to complex structures derived from Isopentyl diphosphate (IPP), dimethyl allyl diphosphate (DMAPP), mevalonate and deoxyxylulose biosynthetic pathways. Terpenes play a very important role in human health and have significant biological activities (anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiallergic, skin permeation enhancer, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory, anti-insecticidal). This book gives an overview and highlights recent research in the phytochemical and biological understanding of terpenes and terpenoid and explains the most essential functions of these kinds of secondary metabolites isolated from natural sources.

The book comprises selected communications on terpenes and terpene derivatives. It clearly demonstrates the sustained interest and importance in this field of natural products; the field connected to secondary metabolites; and renewable resources of plant and animal compounds for medicinal, material, supramolecular, and general chemistry research. It includes 17 papers, 5 review articles, and 12 research communications with a vast range of topics with different perspectives. It commemorates the great work and legacy of prof. Kenji Mori, and provides important material not only to many chemists but also to specialists in several other fields.