Hemp (Cannabis Sativa L.) is an ancient plant with a rich history. Originating in Central Asia, the first recorded cultivation of hemp was in China around 2800 BCE. From there, it traveled the globe, eventually reaching the New World in the 1600s.

In this post, we’ll cover:

  • The different types of hemp
  • It’s significance in the 21st century
  • What hemp is used for,
  • And, how hemp is different than marijuana

Are Their Different Kinds Of Hemp?

There are a few different kinds of hemp. For the sake of this post, we’ll talk about two that are at the opposite ends of the spectrum: flowering hemp and grain hemp.

Flowering hemp is the type that Sunset Lake CBD cultivates for flower and CBD extract.

Farmers cultivate the other type, grain hemp, for hemp seed, fiber, and animal feed. To make it extra confusing, there is no scientific distinction between these two types of hemp. Both are considered Cannabis L. sativa. We will try to make the distinction between the two in the rest of this post.

What is Hemp in the 21st Century?

The 2018 Farm Bill defines “hemp” as a cannabis plant that contains “no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight.”

Legal definition aside, hemp is a member of the Cannabaceae family and an annual herb that can grow up to 14 feet tall but averages around 7 feet. Grain hemp’s slender stalks are largely hollow, and their large fan-like leaves are marked with distinctive ridges. 

Hemp is incredibly versatile and resilient. It can grow in a variety of climates and soil types, making it a valuable crop worldwide. Its deep root system helps to prevent soil erosion, and its rapid growth cycle allows for multiple harvests in a single year. This adaptability has made an essential crop in many cultures throughout history, and it continues to be valued today for its environmental benefits and agricultural sustainability.

A sativa hemp fan leaf marked with it's distinctive ridging
A late-harvest fan leaf from a Sativa-dominant plant

What’s The Difference Between Hemp And Marijuana?

Grian hemp, flowering hemp, and marijuana are indeed the same species, but they are cultivated and used differently. The primary distinction between the three lies in their chemical compositions.

Marijuana comes from female cannabis plants that express high concentrations of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), which are the compounds responsible for marijuana’s psychoactive effects or “high.”

On the other hand, cannabis that contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight is considered to be hemp. Flowering hemp will produce flowers that contain very little THC and will not give users a psychoactive effect. Grain hemp barely produces any flowers at all, as the farmers generally grow grain hemp to produce seeds instead of flowers. 

What Is Hemp Used For?

The hemp plant has been utilized for a myriad of purposes throughout history, making it one of the most versatile crops known to humanity. Here are some of its primary uses:

Industrial Uses

  1. Fibers: Hemp fibers are strong and durable, making them ideal for a variety of industrial applications. Historically, they have been used to make rope, twine, and textiles. Today, they are also used in the production of biocomposites, which are materials made from a combination of hemp fibers and other substances. These composites are used in the automotive and construction industries for their strength and eco-friendliness.
  2. Paper: Hemp fiber can be processed into paper, offering a more sustainable alternative to wood pulp. Hemp paper is stronger and more durable than traditional paper, and its production requires fewer chemicals and less water.
  3. Construction Materials: Can be used to create sustainable building materials such as hempcrete, a mixture of hemp hurds (the woody core of the plant), and lime. Hempcrete is lightweight, strong, and has excellent insulation properties, making it a popular choice for eco-friendly construction.

Nutritional Uses

  1. Seeds: Hemp seeds are a great source of protein, essential amino acids, fatty acids, and vitamins. Most people consume them raw, toasted, or ground into a powder. Try putting them in your salad or a smoothie if you want to harness their health benefits. 
  2. Oil: Hemp oil is extracted from the cold-pressed seeds and is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. People use this pressed oil in cooking, as a dietary supplement, and in skincare products. 

Medicinal Uses

  1. CBD Products: One of the most popular uses of flowering hemp today is the extraction of CBD. CBD oil tinctures, capsules, and topical creams are widely available and used for various therapeutic purposes.
  2. Novel Cannabinoids: Advances in hemp processing have led to the creation of novel cannabinoids like delta-8 THC, delta-10 THC, and THC-O. These cannabinoids offer different psychoactive effects.

Historical Uses

  1. Ancient China: Hemp was first cultivated in China around 2800 BCE. It was used for making textiles, paper, and rope. The Chinese also used the seeds for food and medicine, recognizing their nutritional and therapeutic benefits.
  2. Ancient India: Hemp was used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its healing properties. It was also woven into fabrics and used to make durable ropes.
  3. Europe: Hemp was introduced to Europe in the early centuries AD and quickly became a vital crop. It was used to make sails and ropes for ships, contributing to the success of European exploration and trade.
  4. Colonial America: European settlers brought hemp to the Americas in the 1600s. It was grown extensively in the American colonies for its fiber, which was used to make textiles, ropes, and paper. Some of the founding fathers, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, were hemp farmers.

Environmental Benefits

  1. Sustainable Crop: Grows quickly and can be cultivated in a variety of climates and soils. It requires minimal pesticides and herbicides, making it an environmentally friendly crop.
  2. Soil Health: Hemp’s deep root system helps to prevent soil erosion and improve soil structure. It can also phytoremediation, or clean, soil by absorbing heavy metals and other contaminants.
  3. Carbon Sequestration: Hemp absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere as it grows, helping to reduce greenhouse gas levels. Hemp crops can sequester more carbon per acre than forests, making them an effective tool in combating climate change.

Can It Get You High?

Eating hemp will not get you high. Seeds and oil contain negligible amounts of THC, the psychoactive compound found in higher concentrations in marijuana. However, because CBD-rich flower contains trace amounts of delta-9 THC, it is conceivable that consuming a large quantity could lead to intoxication, although this is unlikely in normal usage.

The more common method of getting high from hemp involves the use of novel cannabinoids extracted and manufactured from CBD extract. Companies have found ways to transform CBD into delta-8 THC, delta-10 THC, THC-O, and other THC analogs. These novel cannabinoids exist in a federal gray area and have allowed people in certain states to get high with less legal risk.

FAQs

  1. What is the legal definition of hemp?
    • The 2018 Farm Bill defines hemp as cannabis that contains no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight.
  2. How is hemp different from marijuana?
    • Hemp and marijuana are the same plant species, but hemp contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC, while marijuana has higher THC content.
  3. What are the common uses of hemp?
    • It is used for its fiber, seeds, and flowers. It can be made into textiles, rope, paper, and is also used in food products and CBD-rich flower.
  4. Can you get high from consuming hemp products?
    • Generally, consuming edible seeds or hemp seed oil will not get you high. However, products with novel cannabinoids like delta-8 THC can cause intoxication.
  5. Why is hemp considered a superfood?
    • Seeds are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients, making them a popular superfood in modern diets.

Updated:

May 25, 2024

As CBD’s therapeutic effects grow in popularity, other parts of the hemp plant beyond cannabinoids are also gaining attention. Terpenes are a class of organic chemicals that cannabis and hemp flower cultivators and manufacturers are beginning to highlight. 

In this post, we’ll answer several questions about terpenes, including:

  • What are terpenes?
  • What are they made of?
  • What are the benefits of terpenes? 
  • What’s so special about hemp flower terpenes?

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are molecules responsible for the aroma of fruits, flowers, and even some animals. For example, limonene gives citrus fruits their characteristic acidic, clean-smelling aroma. In technical terms, they are volatile aromatic hydrocarbons, which means they evaporate at room temperature, allowing us to smell and taste them.

Terpenes play a significant role in the plant kingdom. They are involved in the aroma and the plant’s defense mechanisms. Many plants produce terpenes to ward off herbivores and attract pollinators. This dual role highlights the importance of terpenes in the natural world.

What Are Terpenes Made Of?

Terpenes are simple organic molecules composed of building blocks called isoprenes. Isoprenes contain five carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms. We classify terpenes based on the number of isoprene units they contain.

  • Monoterpenes: Two isoprene units.
  • Sesquiterpenes: Three isoprene units.
  • Diterpenes: Four isoprene units.

Each type of terpene has unique properties and can be found in various plants. For instance, monoterpenes are often found in essential oils and are known for their strong aromas.

Sesquiterpenes tend to be more stable and are found in spices and medicinal plants. Diterpenes are larger molecules and are often found in resins and certain types of trees.

How Are Terpenes Different from CBD?

Terpenes and cannabinoids, like CBD, are different types of molecules that serve distinct functions. While cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, terpenes generally do not. Cannabinoids are primarily found in cannabis and hemp plants, whereas terpenes can be found in most plants, consumer products, cosmetics, cleaning agents, and fruits. However, cannabis and hemp flower terpenes and cannabinoids can work together to create different effects on users.

The interaction between terpenes and cannabinoids is often referred to as the “entourage effect.” This concept suggests that the combined effects of cannabinoids and cannabis terpenes can enhance the overall therapeutic benefits. For example, the calming effects of CBD might be amplified by the presence of linalool, a terpene known for its relaxing properties.

Why Do They Matter?

Terpenes provide the aroma and flavor of hemp and cannabis. They may also offer several benefits, although research is still ongoing. Some well-known terpenes and their potential effects include:

Β-Myrcene

Found in mangoes, thyme, lemongrass, and hops, myrcene may help with:

  • Managing inflammation2
  • Pain relief2
  • Sedation, especially when mixed with CBD and THC2
  • Muscle relaxation3
  • Anti-osteoarthritic effects3
  • Neuroprotection3

Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis. Its presence can significantly influence the overall effects of a particular strain. For instance, cultivars that are high in myrcene are often associated with relaxing and sedative effects, making them popular choices for evening use.

Β-Caryophyllene

Present in black peppercorns, cloves, cinnamon, hops, and rosemary, caryophyllene may assist with:

  • Managing inflammation3
  • Protecting the gastric system from harmful substances2
  • Blocking pain3

Caryophyllene is unique among terpenes because it can interact directly with the body’s endocannabinoid system, specifically the CB2 receptors. This interaction makes it particularly effective in managing inflammation and pain, offering potential therapeutic benefits that are still being explored in scientific research.

CBD oil bottle next to a lemon, highlighting the terpene spotlight on limonene with the text "Terpene Spotlight: Limonene."

Limonene

Common in juniper berries, citrus fruits, and some conifer trees, limonene may have:

  • Immunostimulation² 
  • Anxiolytic² (anti-anxiety effects) 
  • Antibacterial²

Limonene is not only valued for its uplifting citrus aroma but also for its potential health benefits. Studies have shown that limonene can enhance mood and alleviate stress, making it a popular choice in aromatherapy. Additionally, its antibacterial properties make it a valuable component in natural cleaning products and cosmetics.

Terpinolene

Found in lilacs, nutmeg, cumin, apples, and tea trees, terpinolene may offer:

  • Antioxidant effects³
  • Sedative effects³

Terpinolene is less common than other terpenes but still plays a crucial role in the overall profile of certain cannabis strains. It is known for its fresh, herbal aroma and is believed to contribute to the sedative effects of certain strains, making it beneficial for promoting relaxation and sleep.

Pinene

Most prevalent in pine trees, pinene may provide:

  • Antibiotic effects
  • Bronchodilation
  • Memory aid

Pinene is one of the most common terpenes in nature, found in pine trees, rosemary, and basil. It is known for its potential to improve airflow and respiratory function, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma. Additionally, pinene has been studied for its ability to enhance memory and cognitive function.

Linalool

Present in lavender, rose, and mint, linalool is believed to:

  • Act as a sedative
  • Help treat burns
  • Serve as an anticonvulsant
  • Act as a local anesthetic

Linalool is widely recognized for its calming and relaxing effects, making it a popular ingredient in aromatherapy and personal care products. Its ability to act as a sedative and local anesthetic makes it valuable in medical applications, particularly for managing anxiety and pain.

Ocimene

Found in basil, parsley, mint, kumquats, and hemp, ocimene may have:

  • Anti-fungal properties
  • Anti-inflammatory effects
  • Anti-viral properties

Ocimene is known for its sweet, floral aroma and is commonly used in perfumes and fragrances. Its potential antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties make it an attractive candidate for therapeutic use, particularly in managing respiratory conditions and infections.

Bisabolol

Found in sage and the candela tree, bisabolol may provide:

  • Anti-inflammatory effects
  • Gastroprotective effects
  • Pain relief

Bisabolol is commonly found in chamomile and is known for its soothing and calming effects. It is often used in skincare products for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, making it beneficial for treating skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.

Humulene

Humulene is often associated with the characteristic aroma of hops, a key ingredient in beer. It has been studied for its potential to suppress appetite and reduce inflammation, making it a valuable component in weight management and anti-inflammatory treatments.

How Do Terpenes Make You Feel?

Terpenes can modulate user experience, contributing to the entourage effect. Their specific effects can vary depending on their concentration and combination with other cannabinoids like THC and CBD.

For instance, a strain high in myrcene and linalool might produce a relaxing, sedative effect, while a strain high in limonene and pinene might result in a more uplifting and energizing experience. Understanding the terpene profile of a particular strain can help users select the right product for their desired effects.

What Are The Benefits Of Terpenes?

It’s difficult to definitively say if terpenes are good for you based on current studies. We do know that they are generally safe to consume, as we find them in fruits, herbs, and spices. The potential therapeutic benefits of terpenes are still being researched, but early studies suggest that they may offer a range of health benefits.

For example, terpenes like limonene and linalool are often used in aromatherapy for their mood-enhancing and stress-relieving properties. Other terpenes, such as pinene and caryophyllene, are being studied for their potential to treat respiratory conditions and inflammation. While more research is needed, the existing evidence points to the potential for terpenes to play a significant role in natural health and wellness.

How Sunset Lake CBD Cultivars Compare

Our hemp cultivars contain a wide range of terpenes. Below are our current cultivars and their top three terpenes:

  • Lifter: Myrcene, β-caryophyllene, α-pinene, humulene
  • Sour Lifter: Terpinolene, β-caryophyllene, myrcene, humulene
  • Hawaiian Haze: Myrcene, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, β-pinene
  • Sour Hawaiian Haze: Myrcene, terpinolene, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene
  • Suver Haze: Myrcene, β-caryophyllene, α-pinene, humulene
  • Sour Suver Haze: Myrcene, terpinolene, β-caryophyllene, humulene
  • Special Sauce: Myrcene, β-caryophyllene, α-pinene, limonene
  • Super Sour Space Candy: Terpinolene, myrcene, β-caryophyllene, humulene
  • Cherry Abacus: Myrcene, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, β-pinene

Conclusion

Understanding their effects can enhance your appreciation of hemp and cannabis products. By exploring the unique properties of each terpene, you can better tailor your experience to meet your specific needs. As research continues to uncover the potential benefits of terpenes, we look forward to learning more about their role in natural health and wellness. Visit Sunset Lake CBD.

FAQs

  1. What are terpenes?
    • It is an aromatic molecule found in many plants and some animals, responsible for their distinct scents.
  2. How do terpenes differ from cannabinoids like CBD?
    • Terpenes and cannabinoids are different types of molecules; cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, while terpenes contribute to aroma and may have various effects.
  3. Can terpenes affect how I feel?
    • Yes, terpenes can modulate the user experience and contribute to the entourage effect, which affects whether users feel energized or relaxed.
  4. Are terpenes safe to use?
    • It is are generally considered safe as they are found in many common products like fruits, cosmetics, and scented candles.
  5. Do all hemp cultivars contain the same terpenes?
    • No, different hemp cultivars contain varying types and concentrations of terpenes, which can affect their aroma and potential effects.

Sources:

  1. Ben-Shabat, S., Fride, E., Sheskin, T., Tamiri, T., Rhee, M. H., Vogel, Z., Bisogno, T., De Petrocellis, L., Di Marzo, V., & Mechoulam, R. (1998). An entourage effect: inactive endogenous fatty acid glycerol esters enhance 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol cannabinoid activity. European journal of pharmacology, 353(1), 23–31. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0014-2999(98)00392-6
  2. Russo E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British journal of pharmacology, 163(7), 1344–1364. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x
  3. Ahmad, Samoon, and Kevin P. Hill. “The Pharmacodynamics of Cannabis.” Medical Marijuana: A Clinical Handbook, Wolters Kluwer, Philadelphia, 2021, pp. 264–286.
  4. Fernandes, E. S., Passos, G. F., Medeiros, R., da Cunha, F. M., Ferreira, J., Campos, M. M., Pianowski, L. F., & Calixto, J. B. (2007). Anti-inflammatory effects of compounds alpha-humulene and (-)-trans-caryophyllene isolated from the essential oil of Cordia verbenacea. European journal of pharmacology, 569(3), 228–236. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejphar.2007.04.059

Updated:

May 25, 2024

Chances are you’ve heard about CBD, and one of the most popular ways that people consume it: CBD oil. In a recent survey, 55% of CBD users responded that CBD oil was one of their main dosing methods, second only behind CBD-infused edibles and candy. Nearly 100 million Americans have tried CBD so it’s safe to say that CBD oil isn’t going anywhere. Continue reading “What Is CBD Oil? Our Complete Guide”

Trips to the vet, adjusting to a new home, vacuum cleaners— these are just a few of the reasons your dog might be anxious. With triggers abound, it’s no wonder that so many people are turning to CBD to help calm their anxious dogs.

But can CBD help with your dog’s anxiety, or is it hype? In this post, we’ll cover,

  • What CBD is
  • Evidence suggesting that CBD may calm your anxious dog
  • Other common questions dog owners have

Continue reading “Can CBD Help Calm Down Your Anxious Dog?”

It seems like almost every month we are now hearing about a new and exciting cannabinoid. You’ve probably heard of THC and CBD. But what about CBDV? CBDV, short for cannabidivarin, is getting some media attention lately. And, while hemp research has been hindered for decades by international prohibition, thankfully there are intrepid scientists who wade through rivers of restrictive governmental red tape in order to conduct groundbreaking cannabinoid research.

In this post, we’ll explore,

  • What CBDV is
  • How it’s different than CBD
  • What the research says about its applications

Continue reading “What Is CBDV & What Is It Used For?”

Key Takeaways

  1. According to the TSA’s rules, you can fly domestically with CBD products as long as they meet other requirements.
  2. Exercise caution when traveling with hemp-derived THC products (gummies).
  3. Flying internationally with CBD can be a bit of a headache. Be sure to look up hemp and CBD rules for all countries that you plan to visit (or have a layover in).

Table Of Contents

  • Can You Fly With CBD Domestically?
  • Can You Fly With CBD Internationally?
  • Tips for easy travel
  • FAQs

Continue reading “Can You Fly With CBD? Yes— Here’s How”

So you’ve had the same bottle of CBD oil for a few months now and you’re worried that it’s expired. Or maybe you’ve found an older bottle of CBD oil and you’re wondering if it’s good.

If so, then this blog post is for you. We’re going to cover:

  • How to tell if your CBD oil is expired
  • What makes your CBD oil expire faster
  • And, how to extend the shelf life of your CBD oil

Continue reading “Does CBD Oil Expire? Yes, Here Are 4 Things To Look For”

Joints are a popular way to consume cannabis, and the most accessible. They’re easy to roll, easy to smoke, and easy to share. But they’re not the only way to roll cannabis. Lest we forget about blunts. Beautiful and born of the marriage of tobacco and cannabis, modern blunts have gotten a bit of a facelift with different flavored wraps and materials. So what exactly are the differences between joints vs. blunts?

In this post, we’ll cover,

  • What joints are
  • What a blunt is, both tobacco and hemp
  • And the difference between the two 

Continue reading “Joints Vs. Blunts: What’s The Difference?”

Full-spectrum CBD gummies are popping up everywhere these days. And why not, they’re an easy and tasty way to work CBD into your daily routine. But they act much differently than gummies made with isolate. So what makes these new full-spectrum gummies different from other CBD gummies? In this post, we’ll talk about how full-spectrum gummies are different from other CBD-isolate gummies and talk about,  

  • What full-spectrum means
  • What you can expect 
  • And, answer some common full-spectrum gummy questions

Continue reading “What Makes Full-Spectrum Gummies Different From Other CBD Gummies?”

Want to make your own CBD oil at home? Making your own homemade CBD oil is a great way to create a concentrated and versatile ingredient that you can incorporate into any number of recipes. While homemade CBD oil may not be as strong as some CBD oil tinctures you can find online, it’s a great way to use any spare CBD hemp flower or trim that you may have saved up. 

In this post, we’ll cover,

  • What materials you’ll need
  • The steps you’ll take when you make your own oil
  • And, how best to store it

Continue reading “How To Make Your Own CBD Oil In 6 Easy Steps”

If you’ve looked at CBD online, chances are you’ve seen “full-spectrum” or “broad-spectrum” jargon. (To be honest, we’re guilty of it too.) You may not be familiar with the jargon— that’s okay— it isn’t user-friendly. If that’s the case, you aren’t the first and certainly won’t be the last to ask: What is full-spectrum CBD? 

In this post, we’ll try to address,

  • Questions about full-spectrum CBD
  • What’s in it
  • And, what differentiates full-spectrum from other types of CBD

Continue reading “What Is Full-Spectrum CBD? Cutting Through The Jargon”

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