Below is our FAQ of interview with Brandon Garza, CEO of our partner TerpCanndles in a way that is easy to read and retain. To read the article, click here.
How do terpenes used in aromatherapy sense benefit the room?
Terpenes used in aromatherapy can benefit a room in several ways, thanks to their volatile organic nature and therapeutic properties. Here’s how they contribute to the environment:
1. Atmosphere Enhancement
Terpenes like limonene (citrus scent), linalool (floral/lavender scent), and pinene (pine scent) quickly evaporate and fill a room with a pleasant aroma. This can:
-
Create a relaxing, uplifting, or energizing atmosphere depending on the terpene.
-
Mask unpleasant odors naturally.
2. Mood and Mental Effects
Many terpenes have psychological benefits when inhaled, including:
-
Linalool: Found in lavender; reduces anxiety and promotes calm.
-
Limonene: Found in citrus; uplifts mood and may reduce stress.
-
Myrcene: Earthy scent; promotes relaxation and sleep.
These effects can make a room feel more peaceful or invigorating, supporting mindfulness, sleep, or focus.
3. Air Purification
Some terpenes have antimicrobial properties, helping to:
-
Inhibit airborne bacteria and viruses.
-
Reduce mold and fungal spores in the air.
For example, eucalyptol (from eucalyptus) and α-pinene (from pine) can purify the air and potentially improve respiratory health.
4. Respiratory Support
Inhalation of specific terpenes (especially from eucalyptus, pine, and mint oils) can:
-
Clear nasal passages.
-
Soothe inflammation in the respiratory tract.
This is especially helpful during cold or allergy seasons.
5. Natural Insect Repellent
Some terpenes deter insects. For example:
-
Citronellol and geraniol (found in citronella and rose oils) repel mosquitoes.
-
Limonene can deter flies and ants.
Do Terpenes make you high?
No, terpenes do not make you high on their own.
Here's why:
-
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis, and they give plants their unique scents (like the citrus smell of limonene or the pine scent of pinene).
-
They are not psychoactive in the way THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is. THC binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, producing the "high."
-
Terpenes do not bind to these receptors in the same way, so they don't cause intoxication or euphoria.
However, terpenes can influence how you feel:
-
They may modify the effects of THC and CBD through a phenomenon called the "entourage effect". This means that terpenes can potentially affect the intensity or type of high when used in combination with cannabinoids.
-
For example:
-
Myrcene may enhance sedation.
-
Limonene might boost mood.
-
Pinene may reduce memory impairment caused by THC.
-
So while terpenes don’t get you high by themselves, they can influence your experience when used with cannabis products.
Am I (or my home) going to smell like weed?
No you will not and your home will not smell of weed either. Botanical Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants - not just cannabis. Our botanical terpenes are derived from non-cannabis sources, but can be blended to mimic cannabis strains and aromas. The only time you will find terpene candles to smell like weed is strains like OG Kush, Sour Diesel, etc.
What if you get the wrong botanical terpene mix, will it affect my mood?
Yes, getting the wrong botanical terpene mix can affect your mood, depending on the specific terpenes involved and how your body reacts to them.
How Terpenes Influence Mood
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in plants (including cannabis and many herbs) that interact with your nervous system. They can influence neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, which are directly tied to mood, stress response, and alertness.
Examples of Terpenes and Their Effects
Terpene | Common Effects | Found In |
---|---|---|
Linalool | Calming, anti-anxiety | Lavender, mint |
Limonene | Uplifting, anti-depressant | Citrus peels |
Myrcene | Sedative, muscle relaxant | Mango, thyme |
Pinene | Alertness, memory support | Pine needles, rosemary |
Beta-Caryophyllene | Anti-inflammatory, mood balancing | Black pepper, cloves |
If You Get the "Wrong" Mix
-
Too sedating? You might feel foggy, lethargic, or unmotivated.
-
Too energizing? It could cause restlessness, anxiety, or even insomnia.
-
Imbalanced mix? You may feel "off" — not quite yourself emotionally or mentally.
Everyone's Body is Different
Your endocannabinoid system (even if you're not using cannabis) interacts with terpenes differently based on:
-
Your biology
-
Current mood or stress levels
-
Dosage
-
Delivery method (aromatherapy, tinctures, etc.)
What To Do
-
Start small and track how different blends make you feel.
-
Use pure, well-sourced botanical terpenes to avoid synthetic compounds or contaminants.
-
Consider mixing with a knowledgeable aromatherapist or cannabis specialist if mood regulation is your main goal.
What makes a terpene candle or room spray different than any other scented aromatherapy candle or room spray?
Great question! Terpene candles or room sprays differ from regular scented or aromatherapy products mainly because of what they're scented with and how those ingredients affect the body and mind.
Here's a breakdown of what sets terpene-based products apart:
1. Terpenes vs. Fragrance Oils / Essential Oils
-
Terpenes are organic compounds found in many plants (especially cannabis, citrus, and conifers) that give them their distinctive aromas.
-
Example: Limonene (citrusy), Linalool (floral), Pinene (piney)
-
-
While essential oils and fragrance oils contain terpenes, terpene-based products isolate and use specific, pure terpenes to target known therapeutic effects, not just scent.
Key Difference:
-
Aromatherapy candle: Might contain lavender essential oil (which includes linalool, but also many other compounds).
-
Terpene candle: Could contain pure linalool, giving more consistent and predictable effects.
2. Targeted Effects Based on Research
Terpenes are being studied for their neuroactive and physiological effects — they can impact mood, stress, alertness, or relaxation.
-
Limonene: Mood-lifting, energizing
-
Myrcene: Sedating, relaxing
-
Beta-Caryophyllene: Anti-inflammatory, calming
Manufacturers of terpene candles/sprays often design blends to elicit specific mental or physical effects, not just to smell pleasant.
3. Cannabis-Inspired but Non-Psychoactive
Many terpene products are inspired by cannabis profiles (since cannabis is rich in terpenes), but they don’t contain THC or CBD — just the aromatic parts. This makes them legal and non-intoxicating, yet potentially still beneficial.
Summary: What Makes Terpene Products Different?
Feature | Terpene Candle/Spray | Regular Aromatherapy Candle/Spray |
---|---|---|
Ingredients | Pure, isolated terpenes | Essential oils or synthetic fragrances |
Effects | Targeted, science-informed (e.g. uplifting, calming) | General wellness or mood support |
Inspiration | Often cannabis or botanical terpenes | Traditional essential oils |
Consistency | High (specific compounds used) | Variable (mixture of compounds) |
Can you use two different candles or sprays at the same time? Will they counteract each other or cause any negative impact?
Yes, you can use two different terpene-based candles or sprays at the same time, but whether it’s a good idea depends on a few important factors:
What Can Happen When You Combine Terpenes:
-
Synergistic Effects (a.k.a. "The Entourage Effect"):
-
Terpenes can work together to enhance or modify each other's effects.
-
Example: Linalool (calming) and Limonene (uplifting) might create a balanced, relaxed yet energized atmosphere.
-
-
Layered Aromas:
-
Some combinations can create more complex and pleasant scents—like how perfumers blend top, middle, and base notes.
-
Potential Downsides or Considerations:
-
Overpowering or Clashing Scents:
-
Some terpenes might not blend well. For instance, pinene (pine-like) and myrcene (earthy/musky) might clash if not balanced carefully.
-
-
Sensory Overload or Irritation:
-
Too many terpenes in a closed space can be overwhelming or cause headaches, dizziness, or respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.
-
Especially if you're using high-concentration sprays, less is more.
-
-
Mood/Effect Confusion:
-
If one terpene is sedative (like myrcene or linalool) and another is energizing (like limonene or alpha-pinene), the result might be confusing to the body or cancel each other out depending on the ratios.
-
Tips for Safe & Effective Blending:
-
Start Small: Use less of each to avoid overpowering the space.
-
Ventilation Matters: Ensure good airflow, especially with sprays.
-
Test First: Try each scent individually and then blend in small amounts.
-
Go for Complementary Profiles:
-
Try citrus + floral (limonene + linalool)
-
Woody + herbal (pinene + caryophyllene)
-
Earthy + sweet (myrcene + limonene)
-
Bottom Line:
Yes, you can mix terpene candles or sprays, but the results depend on the specific terpenes and concentrations. Done thoughtfully, it can be pleasant and even beneficial. But poorly matched or overused combinations can cause discomfort.
What are the benefits of using terpenes with bath soaks?
Using terpenes in bath soaks offers a range of benefits due to their natural aromatic properties and potential therapeutic effects. Terpenes are organic compounds found in plants (especially in essential oils) that contribute to their aroma, flavor, and in some cases, medicinal properties. Here's how they can enhance your bath soak experience:
1. Aromatherapy and Mood Enhancement
-
Limonene (found in citrus peels): Uplifting, mood-boosting, and stress-reducing.
-
Linalool (found in lavender): Promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and improves sleep quality.
-
Pinene (found in pine): Invigorating and refreshing, may improve alertness and respiratory function.
2. Relaxation and Stress Relief
Terpenes such as myrcene and linalool have sedative effects that can help the body and mind unwind. Bathing in warm water infused with these terpenes can amplify feelings of calm and physical relaxation.
3. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief
Some terpenes have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties:
-
Beta-caryophyllene: May reduce inflammation and pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
-
Myrcene: Commonly associated with muscle relaxation and pain relief.
This makes terpene-infused bath soaks potentially helpful for conditions like sore muscles, arthritis, or general body aches.
4. Skin Benefits
Terpenes often have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties:
-
Help maintain skin clarity and reduce irritation.
-
Can support the skin’s natural barrier function and reduce oxidative stress.
5. Enhanced Bathing Experience
Adding terpenes creates a spa-like atmosphere, transforming a simple bath into a luxurious and therapeutic ritual. The synergy between warm water and aromatic terpenes deepens the sensory experience.
Tips for Using Terpenes in Bath Soaks:
-
Use terpene blends or essential oils diluted in a carrier (like Epsom salts, coconut oil, or bath bombs).
-
Avoid direct application of concentrated terpenes—they can irritate skin if not properly diluted.
-
Choose terpenes based on your desired effect (relaxation, invigoration, etc.).