Let’s Talk Terpenes!

There’s something special about cannabis and the great variety of different aromas unique to each strain. Whether it’s the fruity, funky flavors of Strawguava or the pungent, skunky smell of Citral Flo - it is terpenes that determine the flavor and smell of each cannabis plant.

Terpenes are What Makes Cannabis Smell and Taste So Great

Terpenes are what you smell and taste, and let us tell you why! Terpenes are created in the very same glands that produce cannabinoids like THC and CBD. They are fragrant oils that give each strain a distinct flavor and smell like citrus, berry, mint, and pine.

There are over 150 different varieties of terpenes in cannabis alone, each strain develops its own distinctive terpene composition. However, some terpenes are more abundant than others. For example, the five most common terpenes are myrcene, limonene, linalool, caryophyllene, and pinene.  

Terpenes may also play a key part in the intoxicating effects and distinguishes differences between countless different cannabis strains. However, there is further ongoing research uncovering the importance of terpenes in cannabis. 

What are the Effects of Terpenes on the Mind and Body?

Certain terpenes promote different benefits. For example, some may stimulate more relaxation and stress relief whereas others may encourage more focus and clear mindedness. For instance, terpinolene is found abundantly in uplifting sativa strains like Lemon Meringue. While pinene is found in large quantities in euphoric, creativity inducing strains like Forbidden Zkittles. The profile of each given terpene will inherently change while in the company of other compounds, such as cannabinoids and other terpenes in phenomenon known as the ‘Entourage Effect’.

The differences of terpenes add great complexity and depth to the art of growing cannabis. They may also add therapeutic value to consuming cannabis based on the unique medicinal qualities of terpenes.