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The Best Comprehensive Guide to Cannabis Terpenes
You’ve probably heard of terpenes – the vital part of the cannabis plant that packs in the flavour, effects, aromas, and more. Terpenes are a critical component of the cannabis plant – and every cannabis connoisseur should know the different types found in various strains.
This comprehensive guide will introduce you to the world of terpenes and provide you with a comprehensive cannabis terpene chart to help you understand the different types of terpenes.
Here’s everything you need to know about terpenes so you can deepen your knowledge of cannabis and better enjoy your favourite strains of weed and cannabis products.
What You Need to Know About Terpenes and Their Benefits
Terpenes are organic compounds found in various plants, including cannabis. They contribute to the aroma and flavour of the plant and have therapeutic properties that impact the effects of different strains.
Cannabis should understand the different types of terpenes because these organic compounds play a crucial role in determining the unique effects of each strain. Understanding the types of terpenes present in a particular strain can help users choose a strain that will meet their specific needs.
Different terpenes have different properties that can impact the user’s experience. Depending on the type of terpene and strain, the effects can include:
- Influencing mood
- Affecting energy levels
- Effects on your overall well-being
The presence of particular terpenes in a strain can produce diverse effects such as relaxation, heightened focus, or pain relief. Additionally, some research suggests that terpenes may have potential therapeutic benefits.
Comprehensive Guide to Cannabis Terpenes
Cannabis plants contain a wide variety of terpenes, with over 150 known types present in the plant. Each type of terpene has its own unique effects on consumers and contributes to the plant’s distinctive flavour and aroma profile.
Among the many types of terpenes found in cannabis, some are more common than others. Higher concentrations of certain terpenes can produce specific effects, and here’s what you can generally expect from plants with these terpenes.
Limonene
Limonene is a terpene that can be commonly found in cannabis, as well as in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits, which explains the distinctively sweet and citrusy aroma of some cannabis strains.
Aside from its role in scent and flavour, limonene has been suggested to have therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-cancer properties. It’s also a natural solvent that’s widely used in cleaning products, fragrances, and cosmetics.
Research indicates that limonene may enhance the absorption of other terpenes and cannabinoids, potentially making it an essential element of the entourage effect in cannabis.
When isolated, the effects of limonene can have therapeutic benefits, including stress relief and an elevated, happy mood. Therefore, strains with higher concentrations of limonene, such as Wedding Cake, Do-Si-Dos, MAC, and Banana OG, may be useful for individuals seeking these particular effects.
Myrcene
If you’ve ever enjoyed the aroma and flavour of cannabis, chances are you’ve come across myrcene. This natural organic compound can be found in many popular strains, including OG Kush and Grand Daddy Purple, as well as other plants such as mango, thyme, and hops.
Known for its musky, earthy, and sweet aroma, myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis. Not only does myrcene enhance the overall sensory experience of cannabis products, but it also has some noteworthy effects. Strains with higher levels of myrcene are known for their relaxing and sedating effects, often leaving users with a feeling of couch lock.
Interestingly, myrcene’s pleasant aroma has made it a popular addition to perfumes as well. With its musky and sweet scent, it’s no wonder why.
So, next time you’re enjoying a cannabis strain like Grand Daddy Purple or OG Kush, take a moment to appreciate the earthy and musky aroma that myrcene provides.
Linalool
Linalool, a terpene with a floral and slightly spicy aroma, is a common component of cannabis strains, as well as plants like lavender, mint, and coriander. This terpene is known for its relaxing and sedative effects, making it a popular choice for strains like Grand Daddy Purple, Do-si-dos, and Kosher Kush.
Beyond its calming properties, linalool is believed to have potential therapeutic benefits such as anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, some studies suggest that linalool may have neuroprotective and anti-cancer properties.
Overall, linalool is an important terpene that contributes to the unique profile and potential benefits of many cannabis strains.
Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is a naturally occurring terpene found in cannabis plants, as well as in spices like black pepper and cloves. It gives off a spicy, woodsy, and peppery aroma that is commonly found in strains like Zkittles, Bubba Kush, and Blue Dreams.
Caryophyllene is believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it a popular component in medicinal strains. Its ability to reduce inflammation makes it a common ingredient in topicals and creams used to target localized pain and swelling.
Some studies suggest that it may also have other therapeutic effects beyond pain relief and anti-inflammation.
Valencene
Valencene is a terpene that can be found in cannabis as well as in various citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines. With a sweet and citrusy aroma, it is often used in the fragrance and flavour industries.
Valencene is known for its potential therapeutic properties, such as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. It is also believed to have the ability to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
This terpene is typically present in cannabis strains that have a higher concentration of CBD, and it works in harmony with other cannabinoids and terpenes to create an entourage effect. ACDC, Tangie, and Gushers are some strains that are known to contain Valencene and can potentially produce effects like elevated mood, euphoria, and alertness.
Eucalyptol
Eucalyptol is a terpene commonly found in cannabis, as well as in eucalyptus, tea tree, and other plants. It has a cool, fresh, and minty aroma with a hint of spice, and is widely used in medicinal products such as cough drops and mouthwash.
Eucalyptol has various therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial effects. It also has potential as a treatment for respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis.
Eucalyptol is typically found in cannabis strains with a higher THC content, such as Girl Scout Cookies and Super Silver Haze. It is believed to have relaxing effects and may also modulate the psychoactive effects of THC.
Terpinolene
Terpinolene is a versatile terpene commonly found in cannabis, as well as in other plants like cumin, nutmeg, and tea tree. Its complex aroma profile is a combination of floral, woody, herbal, and citrus scents that make it stand out from other terpenes.
Terpinolene boasts a range of potential therapeutic properties and health benefits, including anti-inflammatory. Additionally, it may have antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a valuable component in many medicinal strains.
When present in cannabis, terpinolene is typically found in strains with a lower THC content. It is thought to interact with other cannabinoids and terpenes to enhance their effects, contributing to an overall uplifting and energetic experience. Some of the most popular strains containing terpinolene are Ghost Train Haze, Golden Pineapple, and Orange Cookie.
Terpene Chart
Recent Research on Terpenes
Recent research on cannabis terpenes has shown that they may have therapeutic benefits and can enhance the effects of other compounds in cannabis, including cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
Some terpenes have been found to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving properties. Additionally, terpenes may contribute to the entourage effect, where different compounds in cannabis work together to produce a more potent and varied effect than each compound would on its own. This is sometimes called the “entourage effect.”
The Entourage Effect
The entourage effect in cannabis refers to the synergistic interaction between various compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and other phytochemicals present in the plant.
The idea of “the entourage effect” is that when these compounds work together, they produce a more significant and varied effect than when each compound is used alone. For example, the presence of certain terpenes in a strain can enhance the effects of cannabinoids like THC, resulting in a stronger and more diverse overall effect.
The entourage effect is a crucial factor in the therapeutic properties of cannabis and has significant implications for the development of medical cannabis treatments.
The Importance of Terpenes for Cannabis Consumers
Knowing as much as possible about the different types of terpenes is essential for any cannabis enthusiast. With the information provided in this comprehensive guide and the cannabis terpene chart, you can now identify and appreciate the different types of terpenes found in your favourite strains.
Terpenes not only provide unique aromas and flavours but also play a critical role in the effects and benefits of cannabis. By exploring the world of terpenes, you can enhance your cannabis experience and deepen your appreciation for the plant.
Sources:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-87740-8
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7120914/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844020324828
Frequently Asked Questions:
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which terpene gets you the highest?
This is a controversial topic with no clear answer, as the effects of terpenes can vary from person to person. However, some terpenes known for their euphoric and uplifting effects include limonene and beta-caryophyllene.
What does each terpene do?
Each terpene has a unique set of properties that can affect the aroma, taste, and even the effects of cannabis. For example, myrcene is known for its sedative effects, while pinene can act as a bronchodilator.
What is a good terpene count?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as the optimal terpene count can vary depending on personal preference and the intended use of the cannabis product.
What is a terpene chart, and what do they do?
A terpene chart is a visual representation of the different terpenes found in cannabis and their respective properties. It can be used to identify the dominant terpenes in a particular strain and help consumers make more informed decisions about which strains to try.
How much is too much terpenes?
There is no clear answer to this question, as the optimal terpene levels can vary depending on personal preference and the intended use of the cannabis product. However, some people may experience adverse effects such as headaches or nausea if they consume too many terpenes.
What terpene is best for the lungs?
While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of terpenes on lung health, some terpenes that may have beneficial properties include pinene, eucalyptol, and linalool.
