News: New Israeli Study Discovers Cannabis Terpenes Activate Endocannabinoid Receptors.

Published 11AM EST, Fri Dec 05, 2025

Researchers in Israel explored cannabis plant terpenes. In the study, they discovered that in a dose-dependent manner, that cannabis plant terpenes were activating endogenous cannabinoid receptors (1).

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Researchers in Israel examined how 16 common cannabis-derived terpenes—including α-pinene, myrcene, limonene, linalool, β-caryophyllene, and others—interact with the endocannabinoid system. Using a Xenopus oocyte expression model, they evaluated how these compounds activate the body’s cannabinoid receptors (CB1R and CB2R) independent of cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Their findings showed that many terpenes function as partial agonists at these receptors, generating dose-dependent responses.

The study found that although terpene-driven activation reached only 10–60% of the activation caused by THC, several terpenes demonstrated potencies similar to or stronger than THC within the same experimental system. Multiple terpenes reached clinically relevant activation levels at CB2R at concentrations equal to or lower than those required for THC. Importantly, CB2R activation resulted in non-psychoactive effects associated with therapeutic benefits such as anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, gastroprotective, and chemopreventive properties.

Researchers emphasized that these findings help clarify previously inconsistent reports about terpene activity at cannabinoid receptors. They also highlight the potential for terpenes to modulate the endocannabinoid system independently of cannabinoids, offering a basis for exploring tissue-specific activity, synergy with cannabinoids, and new therapeutic applications. The broad availability and favorable safety profiles of terpenes further reinforce their value as accessible modulators of ECS signaling.

If terpenes directly influence CB1 and CB2 receptor activity—and not merely modify aroma, flavor, or entourage effects—they may become strategic ingredients in formulations aimed at specific therapeutic outcomes. This could influence cultivation priorities, extraction practices, and product design, encouraging companies to standardize terpene profiles for targeted effects such as anti-inflammatory relief or neuroprotection. Additionally, because terpenes can modulate the ECS without causing psychoactive effects, they may open new pathways for wellness, pharmaceutical, and functional-cannabis markets seeking non-intoxicating solutions with measurable biological activity.

Source: Cannabis Science Tech