Key Takeaways:
- Terpenes account for cannabis’s scent and taste
- Terpenes are produced by cannabis’ trichomes
- The compounds provide the first line of defense against pests and insects
- Research has uncovered 200+ terpenes in marijuana
- Besides their distinct aromas, terpenes also boast immense therapeutic properties
- Terpenes are involved in the famous entourage effect
- Each strain has a unique terpene profile
- Terpenes are more volatile than cannabinoids
- Environmental agents like heat and light accelerate terpene degradation
- Most cannabis regulations focus on cannabinoids like THC, with limited direct regulation of terpenes
- Terpenes exist in many other botanicals besides cannabis
Many people administer cannabis to relieve various ailments; some to enjoy a cerebral boost. Despite the reason for incorporating marijuana into your lifestyle, we cannot discount the role of smell and taste in impacting every dosage experience.
Pleasant aroma makes cannabis flowers worth trying, while a delightful flavor lets you savor each dosage.
Conversely, a foul smell or taste would make marijuana repulsive. That’s particularly if you prefer to administer the plant via smoking, which is known to exude a burnt taste due to combustion.
Fortunately, cannabis produces diverse scents and tastes. Weed’s aroma and flavor profile are due to a class of bioactive plant compounds called terpenes.
Cannabis terpenes vary in type and concentration, depending on the strain. While some cultivars produce a handful of these aromatic molecules, others secrete decent amounts of them.
Experts recommend understanding the effects of individual terpenes before choosing a cannabis flower. It helps validate a seller’s claims, while also enabling you to predict the product’s net effects.
Here’s a cannabis terpene guide to help you understand the mechanism behind marijuana’s most potent aromatic compounds. The post shall highlight everything there is to know about terpenes, from occurrence and formation to application, effects, and legality.
What Are Cannabis Terpenes?
The cannabis plant secretes hundreds of bioactive compounds, which fall into three broad categories - cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes.
Cannabinoids account for most of cannabis’ healing properties. These compounds are contextually known as phytocannabinoids or exocannabinoids, distinguishing them from the body’s own endocannabinoids.
The mind-altering THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and its non-psychoactive cousin CBD (cannabidiol) are the most abundant and widely researched cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. However, there are at least 100 others, including minor ones like cannabigerol (CBG) and THC’s inert chemical precursor – tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA).
Flavonoids are cannabis’ compounds mostly responsible for its natural pigmentation. They also serve as antioxidants, with some containing therapeutic properties.
Meanwhile, cannabis terpenes are the molecules that give each weed strain its flavor profile.
Without terpenes, marijuana extracts would be tasteless. Most users would need to incorporate artificial sweeteners to enhance their flavor experiences.
Marijuana naturally produces hundreds of terpenes. But, like cannabinoids, only a handful of these have been extensively studied.
How Else Are Terpenes Useful?
Although highly prized for their mouthwatering flavors, cannabis terpenes play several other functions.
Prior to harvesting marijuana flowers, terpenes serve as the plant’s primary defense mechanism. Their potent scents attract beneficial insects like pollinators while repelling pests.
Terpenes also guard against plant pathogens and environmental stressors. A high concentration of these molecules improves cannabis’ immunity, minimizing the need for synthetic protectants.
And, back to human use, terpenes can maximize marijuana’s therapeutic properties. The compounds work synergistically with cannabinoids to deliver enhanced healing benefits through a process called the entourage effect.
How are Terpenes Formed?
Terpene biosynthesis is a slow and complex process that occurs in trichomes, the hairy resinous glands that cover cannabis buds and leaves. The process typically begins with specialized enzymes, such as terpene synthase, converting simple sugars into complex molecules.
Most terpenes result from simple compounds like Isopentenyl Pyrophosphate (IPP) and Dimethylallyl Pyrophosphate (DMAPP). These molecules condense chemically into Geranyl Pyrophosphate, which serves as the natural precursor for Monoterpenes and Sesquiterpenes.
After synthesis, terpenes remain in cannabis trichomes. The production process continues indefinitely, but slows down as cannabis hits the peak flowering stage.
Cannabis Terpenes Types
Terpenes number in the hundreds. However, most of these compounds have overlapping aromatic effects.
As noted, terpenes also enhance cannabinoids’ therapeutic properties. Some combine with CBD to ease anxiety and pain, while others work alongside THC to enhance focus and induce the munchies.
Here are the most common cannabis terpenes, alongside their signature effects:
Dominant Terpenes
|
Terpene |
Dominant Aroma/Flavor |
Effects |
Common Ailments Targeted |
|
Myrcene |
Earthy and musky |
Sedative |
Anxiety, pain, and inflammation |
|
Caryophyllene |
Spicy and peppery |
Calming |
Inflammation, pain, and neurodegeneration |
|
Limonene |
Citrusy and lemony |
Refreshing |
Mood swings, anxiety, and inflammation |
|
Linalool |
Floral, lavender-like |
Soothing |
Anxiety, insomnia, and seizures |
|
Pinene |
Woody, pine-like |
Uplifting |
Inflammation, mood swings, and respiratory congestion |
|
Humulene |
Earthy and hoppy |
Relaxing |
Inflammation, anxiety, and nausea |
|
Terpinolene |
Herbal + floral + citrusy |
Reinvigorating |
Fatigue, bacterial illnesses, and mild anxiety |
|
Ocimene |
Sweet + Herbal + tropical |
Uplifting |
Mood swings, respiratory congestion, and bacterial infections |
Selected Minor Terpenes
- Camphene
- Nerolidol
- Borneol
- Bisabolol
- Eucalyptol
- Guaiol
- Valencene
How Do Terpenes Impact Us?
Like cannabinoids, terpenes exert their biological influence through the endocannabinoid system. The compounds interact with both CB1 receptors expressed in the central nervous system (CNS) and CB2 receptors widespread in peripheral tissues, particularly in the olfactory organs.
Each inhale delivers terpenes to your endocannabinoid system via olfactory receptors. The compounds travel to the brain, stimulating the release of “feel-good” hormones like serotonin and dopamine.
The net effects? Mental relaxation or stimulation, depending on the specific terpene involved.
Exploring Cannabis Terpenes Effects
Cannabis molecules that trigger euphoria generally function as CB1 agonists.
Initially, terpenes were thought to have zero influence on CB1 receptors. But recent findings have since disproved those assertions.
One study found that all terpenes activate CB1 receptors when tested individually, with others demonstrating up to 50% of THC’s psychoactive potential.
Which begs the question, will terpenes get you high? Well, the answer is a bit complicated.
Terpenes don’t bind directly to CB1 receptors, similarly to THC. However, studies have shown these molecules can accelerate THC’s bioavailability.
Myrcene is especially noted for its role in speeding up tetrahydrocannabinol’s absorption. The compound helps convey THC across the blood-brain barrier, delivering a more potent high.
Besides, Limonene and Pinene heighten alertness. Both molecules can increase sensitivity to the chemical neurotransmitters in the brain, intensifying euphoric feelings.
Calming terpenes like Linalool can intensify the soothing effects caused by anxiolytic cannabinoids like CBD.
In conclusion, terpenes may not induce psychoactive effects in and of themselves. But they can enhance the cannabis high if consumed alongside psychoactive compounds like THC.
Factors Impacting Terpene Potency
1. Genetic Predisposition
Terpenes vary considerably by strain. Certain cannabis cultivars, especially exotic breeds, are notably higher in terpenes than others.
Therefore, the terpene profile is a vital aspect when shopping for cannabis.
As you seek out cannabinoid-rich flowers, ensure the strain abounds in aromatic compounds too. Indica-leaning strains typically exude earthy or musky scents, while sativa-based hybrids are sweeter or fruit-themed.
2. Cultivation Methods
A flower’s terpene potency also depends on the growing techniques. Studies have shown that cannabis strains grown indoors using organic cultivation methods have more stable flavors.
Besides cultivating weed in greenhouses, you must judiciously implement the ideal growing conditions.
Cannabis terpene production depends on various environmental factors, particularly nutrition and light spectrum.
3. Extraction Method
Cannabis flower doesn’t necessarily require extensive processing. You can manually grind the buds and consume them in pre-rolls, dab rigs, or vape cartridges.
However, formulations like tinctures and gummies must undergo rigorous extraction. For most processors, the choice often comes down to Solvent Extraction and Supercritical Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extraction.
Solvent Extraction utilizes special hydrocarbons like Butane Hash Oil (BHO) to strip marijuana flowers of their bioactive compounds, including terpenes. The process is relatively fast and labor-effective. However, resultant products may contain residual solvents that reduce their purity. More impurities in cannabis flowers inhibit terpenes’ bioavailability.
The Solvent Extraction method also utilizes highly flammable chemicals, making it unideal for DIYers.
Most experts recommend extracting terpenes using supercritical carbon dioxide. While the CO2 technique is quite expensive, it yields purer products with more stable terpene profiles.
4. Serving Portions
Each cannabis dosage delivers specific amounts of terpenes into your system. The higher the serving portions, the more potent the therapeutic effects.
That said, we should emphasize the significance of mindful dosage.
Terpenes may not produce dramatic adverse effects, in and of themselves. But since every serving amount delivers several other compounds - including the mind-altering THC - an overdose can be severely detrimental to your wellness goals.
Navigating Terpenes’ Legal Landscape
The legality of cannabis flower depends on its potency of delta-9, THC’s most potent cannabinoid. Most existing cannabis legislations, including the 2018 Farm Bill, make little mention of terpenes.
We should also point out that cannabis terpenes seldom exist on their own. Therefore, you can best establish their legality by assessing the legal status of their accompanying cannabinoids.
Remember to research your local cannabis laws, even if you prefer to buy cannabis online. Check a vendor’s website to understand the locations they legally ship to.
Tips for Using Terpenes
- Pick your desired product formulation - dried flower, concentrates, edibles, etc.
- Define your cannabis tolerance level - beginner, intermediate, or experienced
- Define your desired terpene - largely strain-dependent
- Start small and dose up gradually - helps avoid adverse events
- Closely monitor the effects - helps track whether you’re on course with your wellness goals
- Know when to stop - quit if you achieve your wellness objectives or experience severe adverse events
- Store the remainder properly
How to Preserve Terpenes?
Terpenes are volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which become more unstable after a cannabis flower is harvested. You must implement proper storage practices to keep them intact.
Note that environmental agents like light and heat can accelerate terpene degradation. While sunlight aids photosynthesis, a mechanism critical for terpene production, exposing terpenes to ultraviolet (UV) light post-harvest can increase their evaporation and chemical decomposition.
Unchecked light intensity may cause the loss of up to 90% of terpenes.
The thumb rule is to store terpenes in opaque bottles. If you must use a translucent jar, set it in a dark spot.
Unstable humidity may also promote terpene degradation.
When indoor relative humidity (RH) is too low (below 50%), cannabis flowers can dry out. This causes volatile terpenes to evaporate.
And, when RH rises beyond 65%, cannabis buds can become too moist. This results in damage by mold, mildew, or pathogens like bacteria.
Store terpenes in a cool, dry spot.
Below are other terpene storage guidelines to observe:
- Never handle cannabis with dirty hands - it minimizes germ transfer
- Prioritize littles cannabis flowers, as they reduce the risk of contaminating an entire stash
- Check your flower’s expiration date regularly to avoid consuming stale weed
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cannabis terpenes, and what do they do?
Cannabis terpenes are naturally occurring marijuana compounds that give the plant’s extracts their distinct scents and flavors.
What are the most common cannabis terpenes?
Despite numbering in the dozens, the most common cannabis terpenes are Myrcene, Linalool, Limonene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene.
How do terpenes affect the cannabis high?
Cannabis terpenes enhance marijuana’s high by helping convey THC across the blood-brain barrier.
Which cannabis terpenes help with relaxation?
Myrcene and Linalool are famous for their soothing effects.
Do cannabis terpenes affect how a strain feels?
Terpenes critically impact a strain’s aroma, flavor, and overall therapeutic effects.
What terpene smells like citrus?
Limonene stands out for its zesty, citrusy aroma.
How can you identify terpene profiles in cannabis?
The best way to identify terpene profiles in cannabis flowers is to examine lab test reports.
Wrap Up
Terpenes are one of cannabis’ most underrated bioactive compounds.
Without terpenes, marijuana extracts would lack distinct natural flavors. That would make smoking and vaping less attractive, while encouraging the use of potentially harmful artificial flavorings.
One exciting thing about cannabis terpenes is that there’s something for every taste bud.
Citrusy and spicy tastes are more zesty, making them suitable for greenhorns who’re looking for a delightful way to integrate weed into their routines. Skilled connoisseurs would be just fine with muted herbal, earthy, or woody flavors.
With dozens of tastes to experiment with, the trick is to define your preferred cannabis terpenes before hitting the stores.
Note that many strains contain one or two dominant flavors, layered with several undertones. Complex flavor profiles are desirable as they ensure a unique dosing experience each time.
Remember to check the composition of other ingredients too.
Seek out products with balanced cannabinoid profiles, depending on your desired effects. THC-rich flowers are highly stimulating, while CBD-based products are notably calming.
Moreover, insist on flowers laced with fewer impurities like pesticide & solvent residues, biocontaminants, and heavy metals.
