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Terpenes: Scent, Flavour, Effect
September 1, 2021
A common misconception that many people make about cannabis is that the type of strain (indica vs sativa) entirely determines the effect of the cannabis they’re taking.
In reality, even the best sativa and indica strains can cause effects that don’t fall in line with what you’d typically expect from them. When most people consider the types of strains they buy, there are some basics that they tend to assume; such as sativa = energizing, indica = relaxing.
It might surprise you to know then that you can find indica strains that are inspiring and energy boosting, and sativa strains that might be able to help you sleep. That’s because some of these factors are determined not only by the type of cannabis, but also by their terpenes.
What are Terpenes?
Before you can understand how they work, it’s important to understand what terpenes actually are. Terpenes are aromatic oils that can be found in cannabis flowers.
There are over 100 terpenes that have been identified thus far from a wide array of weed strains. Many of these are unique to cannabis, but some can be found in other flowers, fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
While most people associate a musty, skunky scent with cannabis flower, there are an incredible variety of aromas and flavours that can be found in cannabis plants. These are determined by the collection of terpenes that make up each strain.
Studies are still being done to fully understand the impacts of individual terpenes, as well as how they function when combined into unique groups. More research is definitely needed, and it may be years before we fully understand the intricacies of terpenes. However, many people now believe that terpenes may be the component of cannabis flower that determines certain specific physical and psychological effects.
Once we better understand terpenes, and how to utilize them to create craft cannabis strains designed to offer very controlled experiences, it will give cannabis retailers the opportunity to provide consumers with clearer, more accurate information about each strain’s effects.
Some Common Terpenes
The 5 most frequently occurring terpenes in cannabis are:
Pinene:
Also called alpha-pinene, this is the most common terpene found in nature. As you would expect by its name, pinene terpenes give off a powerful pine aroma.
Pinene works as an insect repellent in nature, which is why it’s added to products like bug sprays. However, you can actually find pinene in many different types of drinks and confections.
You can also find pinene terpenes in:
Coniferous trees (i.e., pine, etc.)
Rosemary
Sage
How Does it Feel?
In cannabis, some people report feelings of creative inspiration after consuming pinene, as well as relaxation across their entire bodies.
Limonene:
Limonene, also known as D-limonene, is found in many strains of cannabis flower, and it’s the second most commonly occurring terpene in nature.
Often, limonene terpenes are associated with the aroma of lemons and limes. However, this terpene can be found in lots of other citrus fruits, as well.
You can also find limonene terpenes in:
Lemons
Limes
Mandarins
Oranges
Grapefruit
How Does it Feel?
Limonene is believed to offer uplifting feelings that encourage a happy mood, as well as increase your ability to focus. Some people also believe it helps alleviate stress.
Myrcene:
Myrcene is a terpene that’s found in almost all cannabis strains. It’s known to give cannabis an aroma that’s musky, earthy, and sometimes fruity.
Historically, myrcene gets its name from a Brazilian shrub that was often used in ancient times as an herbal remedy. These days, you’ll find it being used in air fresheners and as a food additive.
You can also find myrcene terpenes in:
Thyme
Basil
Lemongrass
Hops
Mangoes
How Does it Feel?
Myrcene is believed to have strong sedative effects, which results in the calming sensation often provided by weed strains.
It’s also believed to possibly have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimutagenic, and even antibiotic properties; although these are still not conclusively proven.
Linalool:
Linalool is an incredible terpene that can be found in over 200 plants! This terpene is partially responsible for the scent of Earl Grey tea, as well as certain types of wine, due to its woody, spicy, floral aroma.
In addition to foods and drinks, it’s frequently added to varieties of soap, cosmetics, and perfumes. Also, just like pinene, linalool is a natural insect repellent.
You can also find linalool in:
Lavender
Cinnamon
Mint
How Does it Feel?
Like lavender, linalool terpenes are known for their calming effects. It’s believed that linalool terpenes may have an impact on serotonin receptors, which makes it an effective treatment for anxiety and depression.
Beta-Caryophyllene:
Sometimes just called caryophyllene, is a very commonly seen terpene in cannabis; particularly in extracts that require the use of heat for their decarboxylation.
The smell of beta-caryophyllene is often considered spicy, peppery, and woody.
You can also find beta-caryophyllene in:
Cloves
Black pepper
Balsam
Oregano
How Does it Feel?
This terpene is known for its potential pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties. This could be the result of beta-caryophyllene terpenes targeting and binding with CB2 receptors in our cannabinoid system.
The ‘Entourage Effect’
Part of the reason that scientists are fascinated by terpenes is because it’s believed that their individual effects could be brought on through the ‘Entourage Effect’.
This is the proposed mechanism that allows compounds found in cannabis, other than tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), to work alongside the THC in cannabis flower. Together, they impact the overall psychoactive and medicinal effects of each individual weed strain.
As we learn more about these wonderful, fragrant oils, we’re discovering more ways that we utilize different weed strains and their effects most efficiently.
There’s no telling what these discoveries mean for the future of cannabis, but eventually strains may be created to offer very unique, targeted combinations of effects (i.e., anxiety treatment, stress relief, sleep assistance, pain relief, etc.).
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