New Study Shows Terpenes Work Like Cannabinoids in the Body

The scientific community continues to unlock the complexities of cannabis, and a new study published in Neuroscience Letters adds fresh insight to what many in the cannabis world have long observed: terpene blends, like those commonly found in full-spectrum extracts and vape formulations, may have biological effects that go far beyond aroma and flavor.

Researchers at the University of Arizona found that terpene blends extracted from three unique Cannabis sativa chemovars produced cannabimimetic effects—that is, effects similar to cannabinoids—in a mouse model. These blends also helped reduce signs of nerve pain in mice by working through a pathway called the adenosine A2a receptor.system.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are the natural oils found in cannabis and many other plants. They’re responsible for how a strain smells or tastes—think citrus, pine, or fruit. But terpenes may also play a bigger role. Some studies show they can affect mood, inflammation, and how we feel overall.

What Did the Study Find?

The researchers tested terpene blends from three different cannabis strains. Each one had a different mix of terpenes:

• Fruit #18 – high in β-Myrcene and α-Pinene
• Sweet #50 – high in β-Myrcene and Terpinolene
• Sweet #45  – dominated by D-Limonene

Even though they had different terpene profiles, all three blends caused similar effects in mice. The mice moved less, had lower body temperatures, and stayed very still—effects that are also seen when cannabinoids like THC are used. This suggests the terpene blends were cannabimimetic, which means they acted like cannabinoids in the body.

Myrcene May Be Key

The blends with β-Myrcene were the most helpful in reducing nerve pain in male mice. When the researchers previously tested purified β-Myrcene on its own, it showed similar effects. However, D-Limonene, the main terpene in Sweet #45, did not reduce pain in this study.

This suggests that not all terpenes work the same way, and Myrcene might be especially useful for certain effects.

A Different Pathway: A2a Receptor

The study also found that these terpene blends work through the adenosine A2a receptor, which is different from the cannabinoid system (CB1 and CB2 receptors). When scientists blocked this receptor, the pain relief went away. That means the A2a receptor might be a big part of how terpene blends work in the body.

Surprising Differences Between Males and Females

One unexpected finding: the terpene blends helped male mice more than female mice. The reason for this isn’t clear yet, and more research is needed. But it shows that terpene effects might not be the same for everyone.

Takeaways for Cannabis Professionals

This study offers strong support for the idea that terpenes are biologically active beyond flavor, and that terpene blends—like those found in cannabis vape oils—can influence how products feel and function.

For product developers, formulators, and brands focused on the therapeutic or functional potential of cannabis, this research validates a deeper exploration of terpene chemistry. The consistent activity observed across distinct terpene blends also reinforces the importance of full-spectrum formulation and precise blend design.

Final Thought

While more research—especially in humans—is needed, this study strengthens the case for terpenes as active contributors to the cannabis experience. It also opens the door to new strategies for product differentiation that go beyond cannabinoids and flavor.

At True Terpenes, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of terpene science and flavor innovation. We’re proud to contribute our plant genetics to the study of cannabis and applaud other terpene companies like Terpene Belt Farms, who contributed the material to this particular study.

As the impact of terpenes and aroma compounds continues to gain attention, we’re excited to help the industry create products that not only taste great—but perform with purpose.

Want to learn more about how you can create the terpene-rich products customers want?

Reach out to our team of experts.

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