Unlocking the Secrets to Your Perfect Strain…with Terpenes
There’s something about the aroma of cannabis that soothes the mind and body. Whether it’s the strong tangerine and citrus taste of Tropicana Cookies or that musky smell from a bud of Sour OG, we know there’s something going on under these complex and flavorful profiles in cannabis.
What’s going on? Terpenes!
What are terpenes?
Secreted in the same glands that produce cannabinoids like THC & CBD, terpenes are aromatic oils that give cannabis varieties their distinctive flavors like citrus, berry, mint, and pine. Like other strong-smelling plants and flowers, terpenes developed in cannabis to help bring pollinators close and keep predators away.
Terpenes play an important role in characterizing the effects of a cannabis strain’s profile. While some terpenes promote relaxation and stress-relief, others can improve focus and clarity. The effect of a terpene can change in the presence of other compounds in what is known as the entourage effect. While the differences of these effects can be subtle, their therapeutic significance is based on their individual medicinal properties.
Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant, and every strain tends toward a unique terpene type and composition. In other words, a strain like Cheese and its descendants will likely have a discernible cheese-like smell, and Blueberry offspring often inherit the smell of berries.
Here's our terpene cheat sheet.
Linalool - Popular in aromatherapy products , Linalool has a spicy floral scent and is thought to have a sedative effect that helps relieve anxiety, inflammation and supports pain management.
Smells: Floral with a hint of spice
Tastes: Coriander, Floral, Lavender, Lemon, Rose
Found in: Lavender, Mint, Cinnamon, Citrus Fruit
Myrcene - Found in most varieties of cannabis (as well as hops), Myrcene has a strong sedative effect at a higher doses, as well as anti-inflammatory properties and supports pain management.
Smells: Clove-like with notes of citrusy fruit
Tastes: Sweet citrus
Found in: Balsamic, Fruit, Geraniums, Herbs
Pinene - Considered to have anti-inflammatory properties and anxiety relief. Eases asthma, supports memory and destroys bacteria.
Smells: Pine forest and Rosemary
Tastes: Rosemary, Cedar wood, Pine
Found in: Conifer trees, Parsley, Orange peels
Caryophyllene - One of the most common terpenes found in cannabis, Caryophyllene is the only terpene that has been proven to produce anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (CB2 receptors)
Smells: Wood, cinnamon and cloves
Tastes: Hops and spices
Found in: Basil, all-spice, fig, black pepper
Limonene - Most commonly found in lemons and citrus rind, limonene has been said to contain uplifting properties that can help fight anxiety and depression.
Smells: Citrus lemon and orange
Tastes: Lemon and mint
Found in: Orange, juniper, peppermint
Our bottom line? Follow your heart (and nose).
More than ever before, science relies on terpene profiles to determine how you’ll feel after enjoying a specific cannabis product or strain. Combining cannabinoids and terpenes maximize the benefits of cannabis in mind and body.