What are Terpenes?

A Comprehensive Guide to Terpenes in Cannabis: Aromas, Effects, and Benefits

Cannabis is often appreciated for its ability to help with a variety of medical conditions and its recreational effects. However, there’s more to cannabis than just THC and CBD. One of the key components that contribute to its therapeutic and aromatic properties are terpenes. These aromatic compounds not only give cannabis its distinct scent but also play a significant role in the plant’s effects.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of terpenes in cannabis, how they affect both the aroma and the therapeutic properties of the plant, and which terpenes you should know about.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are a large class of organic compounds produced by plants, including cannabis. They are primarily known for their fragrance, which is why they are often found in essential oils. In cannabis, terpenes are produced in the resin glands, alongside cannabinoids like THC and CBD.

Beyond their scent, terpenes may have an impact on the way cannabis interacts with your body. The “entourage effect” is a term used to describe how terpenes, cannabinoids, and other compounds in cannabis work synergistically to enhance or modify the plant’s effects.

Terpenes can also have therapeutic benefits on their own, which is why many people seek out strains with specific terpene profiles for their medicinal effects. For example, some terpenes are known to have relaxing, anti-inflammatory, or mood-boosting properties.

Common Cannabis Terpenes and Their Effects

While there are over 100 terpenes found in cannabis, there are a few that are particularly prominent and well-studied. Here’s a look at some of the most common terpenes and their associated effects:

1. Myrcene

• Aroma: Earthy, musky, herbal (similar to cloves)

• Effects: Myrcene is one of the most prevalent terpenes in cannabis. It has relaxing and sedative effects, which can make it ideal for evening use or for those looking for relief from pain and insomnia. Myrcene also has anti-inflammatory properties and may aid in muscle relaxation.

• Common Strains: Granddaddy Purple, OG Kush, Mango Kush

2. Limonene

• Aroma: Citrus, lemon, orange

• Effects: Limonene is uplifting and mood-enhancing. It’s often associated with reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. It also has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Limonene is great for daytime use and may provide a burst of energy and focus.

• Common Strains: Super Lemon Haze, Lemon Skunk, Jack Herer

3. Pinene

• Aroma: Pine, earthy, fresh

• Effects: Pinene is known for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It can help improve memory and alertness while reducing anxiety. Pinene also has anti-inflammatory effects and can be helpful for respiratory conditions, as it acts as a bronchodilator. It’s a good choice for those who want a clear-headed experience.

• Common Strains: Dutch Treat, Blue Dream, Strawberry Cough

4. Caryophyllene

• Aroma: Spicy, peppery, woody

• Effects: Caryophyllene is unique because it interacts with the body’s CB2 receptors, making it a potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving agent. It is often used to alleviate conditions like arthritis and chronic pain. Caryophyllene also has potential anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties.

• Common Strains: Bubba Kush, Girl Scout Cookies, Sour Diesel

5. Linalool

• Aroma: Floral, lavender, sweet

• Effects: Linalool is widely known for its calming and relaxing effects. It’s often used to help with stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Additionally, linalool has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anticonvulsant properties, making it useful for treating pain, muscle spasms, and seizures.

• Common Strains: Lavender, Amnesia Haze, LA Confidential

6. Terpinolene

• Aroma: Floral, herbal, citrus, sweet

• Effects: Terpinolene is a more rare terpene, but it is known for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It has a mild, uplifting effect that can help to improve mood and reduce anxiety. It’s often found in strains that provide a balanced high with both relaxing and energizing effects.

• Common Strains: Jack Herer, Cinderella 99, Orange Cookies

7. Humulene

• Aroma: Earthy, woody, hoppy

• Effects: Humulene is known for its anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressant properties. It can also be used as an anti-bacterial agent. Its relaxing effects make it ideal for those looking to relieve pain or reduce inflammation without increasing appetite.

• Common Strains: Girl Scout Cookies, Headband, White Widow

8. Bisabolol

• Aroma: Sweet, floral, herbal

• Effects: Bisabolol is primarily known for its soothing properties. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic effects. This terpene is often found in strains used for managing pain, inflammation, and skin conditions.

• Common Strains: ACDC, OG Kush, Pink Kush

9. Ocimene

• Aroma: Sweet, citrusy, herbal

• Effects: Ocimene is a terpene known for its uplifting, energizing properties. It has antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral effects, which may help with conditions like colds or allergies. Ocimene’s ability to improve mood and reduce stress makes it a great daytime option.

• Common Strains: Dutch Treat, Strawberry Cough, OG Kush

How Terpenes Affect the Cannabis Experience

The entourage effect, which involves the interplay between terpenes, cannabinoids, and other compounds in cannabis, can significantly affect how a strain impacts the user. Terpenes not only alter the aroma and flavor of the strain but also can enhance or modify the effects of THC and CBD. For example, the presence of myrcene may enhance THC’s sedative properties, while limonene may elevate mood and add an energetic boost to the experience.

If you’re using cannabis for medicinal purposes, understanding the terpene profile of different strains can help you select the right strain for your needs. Whether you’re looking for pain relief, stress reduction, or a more energizing effect, terpenes play a critical role in achieving the desired outcome.

Terpenes are far more than just aromatic compounds in cannabis; they are vital to the plant’s effects and therapeutic benefits. With each strain offering a unique combination of terpenes, users can fine-tune their cannabis experience to meet their specific needs. Understanding the terpenes in your favorite strains can help you better understand how cannabis interacts with your body, and can also be the key to unlocking a more personalized, enjoyable experience.

Next time you’re choosing a cannabis strain, consider not just the THC or CBD content, but also the terpene profile. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, pain relief, or an uplifting mood boost, the right combination of terpenes can make all the difference. Ask your Puff Box Bud Tender for help!