Terpenes 101

Terpenes 101: Everything you need to know about these aromatic compounds

What Are Terpenes?

What are terpenes 101? Terpenes are aromatic chemical compounds that give cannabis its smell, taste, and color. These compounds not only contribute to the scent and taste of cannabis but also play a significant role in its effects on the body and mind. Terpenes are in many different elements such as many different types of plants and even some animals! Whether you’re an expert cannabis user or just a beginner, understanding terpenes can give you insight on the plant’s effects, flavor profile, and potential health benefits. 

Terpenes are naturally occurring organic compounds found in the essential oils of many plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the distinctive smells of each strain just like pine trees and citrus fruits. In cannabis, terpenes contribute not only to the strong aroma but also the entourage effect. The idea that cannabinoids and terpenes work together to enhance or modify the effects of the plant.

Each and every terpene has its own unique scent, and many have medicinal properties that can affect anything from your mood, to your stress levels, and even promote healing. Cannabis contains over 100 different terpenes, and each strain has its own terpene profile which will provide you with the overall effects.

How Do Terpenes and THC Work?

Terpenes play a crucial role in the cannabis experience, acting as aromatic compounds that not only influence the scent and flavor of various cannabis cultivars but also modulate the effects of THC. This phenomenon, often referred to as the “entourage effect”, suggests that the therapeutic potential of cannabis is amplified when terpenes interact synergistically with cannabinoids like THC. For instance, a strain high in myrcene might produce a more sedative effect, while one rich in limonene could elevate mood and increase energy.

Understanding the terpene concentration in relation to THC content can help consumers select the ideal strain for their desired effects.

Moreover, the spectrum of terpenes present in a particular cultivar can significantly alter the overall cannabis medicine experience. Beyond just enhancing flavor profiles, terpenes can affect how THC is absorbed and metabolized in the body. This intricate interplay means that two strains with similar THC levels could yield vastly different experiences based on their unique terpene compositions.

By delving deeper into the world of terpenes, cannabis enthusiasts can better navigate their options and tailor their consumption to achieve specific outcomes, whether for relaxation, creativity, or general cure. Exploring these nuances opens up a new dimension of appreciation for the complex chemistry behind cannabis.

The Roles of Terpenes In Weed

The Flavor and Aroma:

Terpenes are primarily responsible for the flavors and aromas we associate with cannabis. Some strains smell sweet like a fruit or candy while others are more earthy and piney. The variety of scents is a result of the different terpenes in each strain.

Therapeutic Effects:

Many terpenes have their own potential health benefits. For instance, some terpenes are known to be anti-inflammatory, while others may help with anxiety or pain relief. When combined with cannabinoids, these effects are often amplified. Here at Lord Green we have many different strains of flower, edibles, extracts, and disposables to fit everyone preference and the benefits they are seeking for. Since our infancy, our dispensaries have helped customers intimately pick their cannabis flowers, like amnesia haze.

The Entourage Effect:

This is the phenomenon where the combined action of all the compounds in cannabis, cannabinoids, terpenes, and other phytochemicals creates an enhanced, more holistic effect. The entourage effect suggests that cannabis is most effective when used as a whole plant, with all its compounds working together. This may be a significant reason to the help in reducing inflammation using cannabis products.

The Top 5 Most Common Terpenes Found In Cannabis Weed Smells:

Citrus Terpene: Limonene

• Scent Profile – citrus and lemon aroma

• Effects- uplifting, mood-boosting, anti-anxiety

• Found in – lemons, oranges, and is in the popular strain Super Lemon Haze

• Uses- Limonene is often used for its potential to improve mood and reduce stress. Antibiotic nature.

Earthy Terpene: Pinene

• Scent Profile – Pine and earthy aroma

• Effects- focus-enhancing, anti-inflammatory, and improves airflow to the lungs with bronchodilator properties.

• Found in – pine tree needles, rosemary, basil, and in well-known strain Jack Herer

• Uses- Pinene is thought to help improve memory retention and focus, making it a good option for daytime use. It’s also linked with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.

Musky Terpene: Myrcene

• Scent Profile – Earthy, musky, with hints of clove

• Effects- Sedative, relaxing, anti-inflammatory

• Found in – Mangoes, hops, thyme, and strains like Grandaddy purple which is one of our bestsellers here at lord green!

• Uses- Myrcene is known for its calming effects. It can help with sleep, relaxation and muscle relaxation, making it ideal for evening or nighttime use. It may also have pain-relieving properties.

Floral Terpene: Linalool

• Scent Profile – Floral, lavender-like

• Effects- Calming, anxiety-reducing, sedative

• Found in – Lavender oil, mint, and cannabis strain Lavender Kush 

• Uses- Linalool is popular for its soothing properties. It’s often used in aromatherapy to reduce anxiety and promote sleep. Popular among pollinators attractiveness too.

Peppery Terpene: Caryophyllene

• Scent Profile – Spicy, peppery, woody

• Effects- Anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), potentially helpful for anxiety and depression

• Found in Black Pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and strains such as Girl Scout Cookies and Gelato 

• Uses- Caryophyllene is unique because it can interact with the body’s CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, making it an effective anti-inflammatory and pain relief agent. Antimicrobial.

How Terpenes Influence Cannabis Effects

The unique terpene profile of each cannabis strain is a major factor in determining how the strain will make you feel. Different terpenes give you different specific effects. These special antioxidants have been reported by users to help with anticancer, antidepressant, and arthritis symptoms by balancing their cannabinoid receptors.

Energizing & Uplifting: Strains high in terpenes like Limonene or Terpinolene tend to have more uplifting and energizing effects. These strains are great for daytime use, providing mental clarity and focus.

Relaxing & Sedating: Strains rich in Myrcene, Linalool, or Caryophyllene are often more relaxing, making them ideal for evening use when you want to wind down and get a smooth good night’s rest.

Balanced Effects: Many strains offer a mix of terpenes that create a balanced effect, such as the classic hybrids. These might provide a mild sense of euphoria, creativity, or focus without being too overwhelming. 

Wrapping up: The Role of Terpenes In Your Cannabis Journey

As you see the terpenes play an essential role in determining how cannabis affects the body and mind other than just their different aromas. With a vast array of terpenes including humulene, β-pinene, beta-caryophyllene, beta-pinene, eucalyptol, and hundreds of others, the quest for optimal cannabinoid content is a spice of life. Understanding terpenes gives you the ability to pick your own personalized cannabis experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, synergy, potency, or enhancing your immune system, Lord Green Dispensary can help recommend flower and terpene information to help when you pick your buds.