Why Care About Terpenes?
In short, you should care because terpenes decide what your high will be like…
Terpenes are organic compounds synthesized by plants for a number of reasons, including defense against predators, attracting pollinators and fighting disease.
To us, terpenes are responsible for the unique scent and taste of the cannabis plant, along with other plants like lavender, citrus fruits, pine trees and basically every other scent and flavor found in plants.
In cannabis, terpenes are found in the trichomes, which are the tiny hair-like structures on the surface of the plant. These trichomes contain the majority of the cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, as well as the terpenes. The combination of these compounds is what produces the distinctive effects associated with different cannabis strains.
The Importance of Terpenes
Terpenes don't just contribute to the scent and flavor of cannabis; they also interact synergistically with cannabinoids, enhancing their effects and therapeutic potential. This phenomenon is known as the "entourage effect" . The entourage effect suggests that the combination of different terpenes and cannabinoids can produce more significant benefits compared to isolated compounds.
Moreover, terpenes themselves can exhibit unique therapeutic properties. Some terpenes have been associated with potential anti-inflammatory, anti-pain, anti-anxiety, and even anti-cancer effects. This opens up new possibilities for medical applications of cannabis beyond the traditional cannabinoid compounds.
The 7 Most Common Terpenes in Cannabis and Their Effects
🥭 Myrcene: Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in cannabis and is also present in hops, mangoes, and lemongrass. It is known to have a sedative effect, making it helpful for relaxation and sleep induction. Some people also use it for its potential anti-inflammatory properties that are being researched futher.
If you like sleepy, relaxing Indicas, or calm and creative sativas, look for myrcene.
Strains with high Myrcene content - Blue Dream, OG Kush, Tangie, Grandaddy Purple
🍋 Limonene: Found in citrus fruits, limonene is known for its energizing and mood-enhancing effects. It has the potential to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. Limonene is also shown to exhibit strong antifungal and antibacterial properties.
If you like energy and a head-focused high, give limonene a try.
Strains with high Limonene content - Sour Diesel, Super lemon Haze, Citrus Rock, White Fire OG
🧂 Caryophyllene: Present in various spices like black pepper and cloves, caryophyllene is the most studied of the terpenes found in cannabis and for good reason. It is the only terpene known to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system and studies show that caryophylene actually increases activation of your body's CB1 receptor, effectivley leading to a more powerful high.
It also demonstrates possile anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, possibly aiding in the treatment of pain and inflammation.
Caryophyllene is responsible for the peppery flavour of some strains and usually indicates strong weed with an intense high.
Strains with high Caryophyllene content - Chemdawg, White Widow, Death Star, Silver Haze
🌲 Pinene: As the name suggests, pinene can be found in pine trees and many coniferous plants. It is known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve airflow and respiratory function. Pinene also has also demonstrated possible memory-enhancing effects and is associated with increased focus and alertness.
If you like a focused, creative sativa that isn't too intense, or an indica that doesn't just knock you out, then keep an eye out for strains with Pinene.
Strains with high Pinene content - Jack Herer, Crunch Berries, LA Confidential, Strawberry Cough
💜 Linalool: Commonly found in lavender, linalool is known for its calming and relaxing effects. It has sedative properties and may help alleviate anxiety, stress, and insomnia. Linalool also exhibits potential anticonvulsant and analgesic properties.
Strains with linalool tend to be calm and relaxed, sometimes paired with humulene and myrcene for a sleepy effect.
Strains with high Linalool content - Granddaddy Purple, Do Si Dos, Lavender Kush, Gorilla Grape
🍺 Humulene: Humulene is found in hops, coriander, and basil. It can act as an appetite suppressant and potentially exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Terpinolene: Terpinolene is a lesser-known terpene found in cannabis, sage, and rosemary. It has a piney, floral aroma and has demonstrated sedative effects.
Often found in sleepy indica strains, this terpene seems to create a more relaxed, body focused high, perfect for heavy indica fans and chill sativa lovers alike.
Strains with high Humulene content - Pink Kush, Bubba Kush, Skywalker OG, Headband
Choosing the Right Terpene Profiles
By understanding the different terpenes and their effects, you can select strains based on your desired effects. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing strain before bed or a more energizing daytime smoke, whether you like clear headed sativas or heavy-eyed indicas, considering the terpene profile alongside the cannabinoid content is essential to making the right choice.
It's important to note that the effects and therapeutic properties of terpenes can vary in combination with the different cannabinoids present in a given strain. As well as varying based on each person. Experimentation and personal experience play key roles in finding the terpenes that work best for you.
And it’s certainly not an exact science when it comes to personal use. But a little knowledge and experimentation will go a long way in helping you choose the right strains consitently.
Conclusion
Terpenes are an essential component of the cannabis plant, contributing to its scent, flavor, and medicinal properties. But, more importantly to us, the interaction between terpenes and cannabinoids produces a diverse range of effects, allowing you to select strains according to your desired outcomes. From myrcene's sedative effects to limonene's mood-enhancing properties, understanding terpenes can empower you to make informed decisions that align with their preferences and needs
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