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Medically Reviewed By:

Nidra Sidhu, M.D. Integrative Medicine

Terpenes That Increase Appetite: How Certain Compounds Can Increase Your Hunger

While terpenes are best known for their role in the flavor and scent of plants, they have also been shown to have an impact on appetite.

In this article, we will explore the connection between terpenes and appetite and discuss the specific terpenes that have been shown to increase hunger.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are organic compounds found in plants that are responsible for their distinct aromas. They are found in the essential oils of plants and play a role in protecting the plant from pests and other environmental threats.

There are over 100 different terpenes found in cannabis alone, each with its own unique set of properties.

There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that certain terpenes may have an impact on appetite. For example, the terpene beta-caryophyllene has been shown to increase appetite in mice, while limonene, which is found in citrus fruits, has had a similar effect on appetite. Other terpenes that have been shown to increase appetite include myrcene, which is found in mangoes and hops, and linalool, which is found in lavender.

These terpenes are thought to work by activating certain receptors in the brain that are involved in controlling appetite and metabolism.

While the research on terpenes and appetite is still in its early stages, these findings suggest that certain terpenes may have the potential to be used as appetite stimulants.

This could be especially useful for individuals who struggle with a lack of appetite due to medical conditions or treatments, such as chemotherapy. It's important to note that while terpenes may have an effect on appetite, they should not be used as a replacement for proper nutrition and a healthy diet. It's also important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements or adding terpenes to your diet.

How Terpenes Work

First, it's important to understand what terpenes are and how they work. Terpenes are found in the essential oils of plants and are responsible for their distinct aromas. They are also believed to play a role in protecting the plant from pests and other environmental threats. 

There are over 100 different terpenes found in cannabis alone, each with its own unique set of properties.

When it comes to appetite, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that certain terpenes may have a positive effect. 

One study conducted on mice found that the terpene beta-caryophyllene increased appetite, leading researchers to conclude that it may have potential as an appetite stimulant for humans. Another study found that the terpene limonene, which is found in citrus fruits, had a similar effect on appetite in mice.

Other terpenes that have been shown to increase appetite include myrcene, which is found in mangoes and hops, and linalool, which is found in lavender. These terpenes are thought to work by activating certain receptors in the brain that are involved in controlling appetite and metabolism.

While the research on terpenes and appetite is still in its early stages, these findings suggest that certain terpenes may have the potential to be used as appetite stimulants. This could be especially useful for individuals who struggle with a lack of appetite due to medical conditions.

It's important to note that while terpenes may have an effect on appetite, they should not be used as a replacement for proper nutrition and a healthy diet. It's also important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements or adding terpenes to your diet.

How Long Do Terpenes Stay In Your System?

The duration of the effects of terpenes in the body can vary depending on the specific terpene and the method of ingestion. When inhaled, terpenes tend to have a shorter duration of effect compared to when they are ingested orally.

Inhaled terpenes are absorbed through the lungs and enter the bloodstream quickly. However, they are also metabolized and eliminated from the body relatively quickly, typically within a few hours. This means that the effects of inhaled terpenes may not last as long as those of orally ingested terpenes.

On the other hand, orally ingested terpenes are absorbed through the digestive system and enter the bloodstream more slowly. They are also metabolized and eliminated from the body more slowly. This means that the effects of orally ingested terpenes may last longer than those of inhaled terpenes.

The duration of the effects of specific terpenes can also vary depending on the individual and their metabolism. Some people may metabolize and eliminate terpenes more quickly than others, which could affect the duration of their effects.

Foods That Contain Terpenes That Might Help

Delta 8 THC

Delta 8 THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis that has been shown to have a variety of effects on the body, including an increase in appetite.

Some of the terpenes found in Delta 8 THC that may contribute to this effect include myrcene, which is also found in mangoes and hops, and linalool, which is found in lavender. If you’re interested in delta 8, check out our delta 8 gummies 1000mg.

Bananas

Bananas are a rich source of several terpenes that have been shown to have an impact on appetite. One of the main terpenes found in bananas is myrcene, which has been shown to increase appetite in mice. Bananas also contain limonene, which has a similar effect on appetite.

Strawberries

Strawberries are another fruit that is rich in terpenes that may have an effect on appetite. Some of the terpenes found in strawberries include linalool, which is also found in lavender, and beta-caryophyllene, which has been shown to increase appetite in mice.

It's important to note that while these terpenes may have an effect on appetite, they should not be used as a replacement for proper nutrition and a healthy diet. It's also important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements or adding terpenes to your diet.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, there is evidence to suggest that certain terpenes may have the ability to increase appetite. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this effect, the potential for terpenes to be used as appetite stimulants is exciting and worth exploring. As with any supplement or treatment, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional before adding terpenes to your diet.

Clayton McCall

Clayton is a Senior Content Specialist, researcher, and holistic healthcare practitioner. Having been in the supplement industry for more than 15 years, Clayton brings a wealth of experience to the delta 8 space. His publications include alternative therapy, stress and coping, and alternative health.