Terpene
The name terpene describes any of a wide range of plant compounds. These compounds include farnesol, geraniol, and limonene. There are over 100 types of terpenes, and all are classified by size. For example, monoterpenes are two isoprene units long, and sesquiterpenes are three isoprene units long.
Curcumin, an example of a terpene, is extracted from turmeric. Curcumin has a wide range of medicinal benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiplasmodial properties. It is a potent diuretic and stimulates liver enzymes that are essential for glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, and lipid metabolism. In addition, it reduces liver weight and disorder.
Unlike other types of chemical ingredients, terpenes are completely natural and unmodified. They are extracted from plants and some insects, and are thus considered safe. In addition to this, they have powerful anti-herbivore and anti-insect properties. Generally, they are regarded as safe by the environment protection agency (EPA) of the USA. You can buy products containing Terpenes for sale in stores or online.
Another type of terpene is myrcene, which contributes to the distinctive aroma of cannabis and may have anti-inflammatory effects. In fact, a study conducted in 2015 in cultured cells suggests that myrcene might reduce the inflammation associated with osteoarthritis by slowing the breakdown of cartilage cells. Further, it has been shown to reduce the growth of certain types of cancer cells. These effects could have therapeutic value in the future.
Terpenes are large classes of hydrocarbons produced by many plants and insects. The osmeterium of swallowtail butterflies emits terpenes. They are major components of resin and turpentine, and they can be found in nearly every living thing. In addition to this, terpenes are also used in human health and medicine. The steroid is a derivative of a terpene.
Example of a Terpene
Terpenes are important for plants, because they contribute to the oxygenation and regeneration of their tissue. They also offer protection against various environmental factors. For example, certain terpenes are capable of repelling insects, while others attract animals. Some of these compounds may even have an impact on the human immune system. This means that the production of a plant’s terpenes can influence the immune system and overall health.
In the world of natural products, limonene is one of the most common plant extracts and is known to help fight cancer. It has anti-inflammatory properties, and has been found in citrus fruits, including oranges and lemons. Researchers are also investigating its effect on transforming growth factor B-1, a cancer cell-causing protein. Researchers believe that it may eliminate cancer cells through inducing apoptosis.
Monoterpenes are widely produced, and are probably ubiquitous in nature. They play a role in plants’ organoleptic properties, and are often combined with diterpenes or sesquiterpenes. They are important components of the plant kingdom, and play various ecological roles. They possess broad-spectrum antimicrobial, allergenic, and herbivore-deterrent properties. As an added benefit, they also promote pollination.