Cannabis Terpenes Explained

Cannabis terpenes are a compound found inside cannabis. Although terpenes are often shadowed by the cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, terpenes play an important role in your cannabis experience. Cannabis terpenes are what alters the taste, flavour, and aroma of every cannabis strain.

Having said that, let’s take a deep dive into the world of cannabis terpenes..

Terpenes do more than just make your cannabis strain smell good. Many are familiar with the roles of THC and CBD, but might not be as familliar with the role of terpenes. Terpenes work together with THC and CBD to alter the effects of every cannabis strain.

The trifecta role of THC, CBD and terpenes is often referred to as the “entourage effect”. This theory proposes that various compounds found in marijuana work together to create distinctive and effective benefits.

It is believed that a combination of THC, CBD, and terpenes create a better cannabis experience compared to a strain that just contains a large amount of one of the 3.

When choosing a strain, budtenders commonly express the importance of recognizing the different terpenes within a strain rather than just focusing on the THC levels.

There are many different types of terpenes, believed to have the ability to alter cannabis strains and their effects. Recognizing and understanding the different types of terpenes can allow the user to better select cannabis strains that more effectively align with their desired experience.

Limonene

Limonene is a terpene that can be found in cannabis strains, it is produced in the flower’s resin glands. This terpene is often described to be very aromatic with citrus and fruity notes, often be identified through a delicious lemon scent and flavour. Not only can this terpene help elevate the overall flavour and taste, but these terpenes can potentially produce benefits such as an enhanced and uplifted mood.

Some strains that tend to be limonene dominant are Super Sour Diesel, Do-Si-Dos, Gelato, and Wedding Cake.

Myrcene

Myrcene is one of the most commonly known terpenes found in cannabis. Myrcene is described to produce more of a earthy and herbal aroma, leaving behind a clove-like scent. This terpene is found in foods such as lemongrass and is different than limonene in the sense that it has been found to release more sedating effects through cannabis consumption.

This is a great terpene to look for in cannabis strains if your schedule is free and you’re looking to relax on the couch at length. Some highly coveted strains that contain myrcene are Blue Dream, Granddaddy Purple, and Northern Lights.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is a terpene that tends to be on the spicier side of the spectrum, it is found in foods such as black pepper and rosemary. When a strain contains higher levels of caryophyllene, a distinctive smell is produced when burned; spicy and musky.

Many people gravitate towards strains with caryophyllene because of its soothing and relaxing effects, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Cannabis strains that may have higher levels of caryophyllene are Death Star, Bubba, and Rockstar.

Cannabis terpenes play a significant role in altering your cannabis experience. With the help of terpenes, your cannabis strains can produce different flavors and aromas. However as demonstrated, there is a lot more to terpenes than just that.

Understanding different cannabis terpenes and their ability to potentially enhance your mood, focus, or relaxation will help you choose the best strain for you and your desired outcome when consuming cannabis.

Next time you are at your local dispensary, be sure to consider a strain’s terpene profile – your nose and your mind will thank you!