WTF Are Terps? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
How did you find yourself in the hemp space?
In the summer of 2016 I traveled to Peru to climb Mount Pisco. Following the climb I consumed sherpa stew that contained an amoeba parasite. That parasite attacked my lower intestine causing it to become inflamed and wrap around my colon.
My colon was squeezed like a water balloon which was going to kill me. Doctors in Cusco and Dallas, Texas suggested a colectomy. I declined and used an array of plant medicines to kill the parasite and cannabis oil to reduce the inflammation in my lower intestine. Eventually my lower intestine released its grip on my colon and I returned to full health. I began MINERAL shortly thereafter.
Can you explain to all of us what terps are?
Terpenes are the primary constituents of the essential oils found in the cannabis plant. Their medicinal properties are independent from cannabinoids with the ability to increase energy levels, improve mood, and relax the body and mind.
Are terps like essential oils? Is this different than resins? One and the same?
Terpenes are similar to essential oils in that they're found in a variety of plants and have therapeutic benefits. Terpenes are secreted in the resin gland of the plant.
Why aren't terps featured as much as CBD?
The cannabis plant is a relatively new phenomenon to wellness. Unfortunately our obsession with singular components narrows our ability to see the plant holistically. We’re excited by new findings and though terpenes aren’t new to the cannabis plant, we're now enthused by the inclusion of terpenes in cannabis oil formulations.
If 2018 was the year of CBD for cannabis related wellness, then 2019 will be important for terpenes.
What research do we have?
Unlike cannabinoids, terpenes are indigenous to a variety of plant species. Because of this, the beneficial properties of terpenes, as a whole, are well documented. In cannabis, terpenes are most commonly referred to as the essential oil of the cannabis plant, with therapeutic properties similar to lavender, pine, and peppermint. Research on cannabis terpenes praises their ability to influence the effect of cannabinoids by helping the chemical compounds pass through the bloodstream. Thus, a consumer will feel more or less of a formulation based off the terpenes featured. Because terpenes contain medicinal benefits independent from cannabinoids, their presence in formulations work synergistically to amplify or calm the dominant effects of cannabinoids which could be attributed to the entourage effect. When terpenes are formulated with like cannabinoids consumers will experience a targeted benefit (sleep, focus, balance).
Can you tell us about MINERAL’s formulas?
The terpenes in MINERAL hemp genetics serve as therapeutic aids for cannabinoids. We blend specific terpene concentrations based on cannabinoid content to create harmonious relationships in our formulations.
SLEEP’s ability to induce rejuvenating rest is influenced by the presence of mycerne. We increase the likelihood of homeostasis by featuring limonene in BALANCE. The inclusion of terpenes allows us to differentiate our oil with color, taste, and scent. Much like a perfumery, MINERAL formulations target your senses and influence feeling by creating experiences in the body and mind that match the desired effect.
Why a concept store?
We built a serene space in Austin, Texas to educate our audience, build community, and differentiate our formulations from competitors by showcasing our unique process in person.
You can follow MINERAL on Instagram and if you're in Austin, make sure to check out their concept store.