Terpenes Can Act as Opioids for Pain Reduction, Study
Scientists just found out that a THC-free compound in cannabis has the potential to heal certain pain conditions. Terpenes may facilitate chronic pain relief without the psychedelic effect from THC, and can be specifically targeted for fibromyalgia and post-operative pain treatment, research in animal models has shown.
Could THC-Free Terpenes Substitute Opioids in Chronic Pain Therapies?
Terpenes, the natural compounds occurring in Cannabis sativa and that are responsible for distinct aromas and flavors in plants, may potentially provide an alternative for pain relief without the psychoactive effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Terpenes may hold significant potential for fibromyalgia treatment and pain reduction post-surgery, according to animal studies conducted by researchers with the University of Arizona Health Sciences. The study was published in the journal Pharmacological Reports, and it builds on earlier research which has demonstrated the pain-relieving effects of terpenes in models of inflammation and chemotherapy-related neuropathic pain.
“Our research is showing that terpenes are not a good option for reducing acute pain resulting from an injury, such as stubbing your toe or touching a hot stove; however, we are seeing significant reductions in pain when terpenes are used for chronic and pathological pain,” said Dr. John Streicher, a professor at the College of Medicine - Tucson’s Department of Pharmacology, and a member of the Comprehensive Center for Pain & Addiction.
“This study was the first to investigate the impact of terpenes in preclinical models of fibromyalgia and post-operative pain and expand the scope of potential pain-relieving treatments using terpenes,” Streicher said in a press release.
John Streicher, PhD, is a member of the Comprehensive Center for Pain & Addiction at the U of A Health Sciences and a professor of pharmacology at the College of Medicine – Tucson. Photo by Noelle Haro-Gomez, U of A Health Sciences Office of Communications
Fibromyalgia Treatment
Streicher pointed out the lack of effective medicines for fibromyalgia, which is a chronic musculoskeletal disorder that affects around 4 million Americans and is more often seen in women. “With fibromyalgia, there isn’t much understanding of what the pain state is, and there are not a lot of great options for treating it,” he said. “Our findings show that terpenes may be a viable treatment option for fibromyalgia pain, which could potentially have a large impact and make a difference for an under-treated population.”
Post-surgical Pain Treatment
Post-operative pain can be both acute and chronic. It’s the type of pain that is shorter in duration, but it involves significant physiological changes and inflammation. Opioids are commonly used to address post-surgical pain, but there are side-effects to it, including constipation and adhesions. “We are always looking for better options, and this study suggests that terpenes could be a novel therapeutic for post-operative pain,” Streicher said.
Which Terpene Shows the Most Promise as an Anti-pain Agent?
Four terpenes were investigated in the recently completed study. These include: geraniol, linalool, beta-caryophyllene, and alpha-humulene. Each terpene was able to deliver substantial level of pain relief in mice models of post-operative pain and fibromyalgia. Geraniol acted as the most successful pain-relief agent.
Geraniol is a sweet cannabis terpene with citrusy undertones. It’s name is derived from the geranium plant, a herb known for its citrus scent and pest-deterring properties. Besides cannabis, geraniol is found in rose oil, lemons, lemon grass, peaches, blueberries, grapefruits and oranges. Among cannabis cultivars, it is found in famous strains such as Harlequin and Purple Punch.
The pharmacological activities of geraniol have been noted in previous research as well. This study from 2015, for example, reviews the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the aromatic compound.
The latest University of Arizona study was funded by the National Institutes of Health, which may suspend funding for future cannabis research.
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Stephen Andrews
