5 Hot Topics in Plant-Based Research 1. Terpenes and Trichomes The popularity of essential oils in recent years revolves around a chemistry particular to fragrant plants and herbs. Terpenes are organic compounds that are responsible for the odors, and flavors of essential oils. In the case of sages, for example, two different types of leaf outgrowths, called trichomes, contain a plethora of terpene compounds that give it its distinct taste and smell. These oils are often used to flavor natural products and add an aromatherapeutic smell to others. Some essential oils, such as clove, are still used today in modern dentistry and others are being researched for their anti-microbial, anti-viral…