Cannabis Terpenes
Understanding Their Role, Effects, & Potential Benefits
THE OZSTORE
TERPENE CHART
Scent & Flavor
Earthy, musky, and herbal with hints of cloves and tropical fruits.
Therapeutic Effects
It may have anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and muscle relaxant properties.
Common Strains
OG Kush, Northern Lights, White Lightning.
Potential Effects
Sedating, relaxing, and calming. Believed to enhance the effects of cannabinoids like THC and CBD. It may contribute to the “couch-lock” feeling often associated with indica strains.
Scent & Flavor
Citrusy, lemony, and sweet
Therapeutic Effects
It may have anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Common Strains
LA Kush Cake, Peach Ringz, Super Lemon Haze
Potential Effects
Uplifting, mood-enhancing, and energizing. It may have a stimulating effect and can potentially counteract feelings of anxiety or stress.
Scent & Flavor
Piney, Woody & Herbal
Therapeutic Effects
Belived to improve Alertness and focus, It may have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties.
Common Strains
Cherry Bomb, Romulan, Blue Dream,
Potential Effects
Alertness, mental clarity, and focus. It may have a stimulating effect and can potentially promote a sense of clear-headedness
Scent & Flavor
Floral, lavender-like, and slightly spicy.
Therapeutic Effects
Calming and relaxing, potentially reducing anxiety and promoting sleep. It may have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-depressant properties.
Common Strains
Amnesia haze, Do si-dos, Grandaddy Purple
Potential Effects
Calming, soothing, and relaxing. It may have a sedating effect and can potentially help with anxiety, stress, and promoting better sleep
Scent & Flavor
Spicy, peppery, and slightly woody
Therapeutic Effects
Potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, may also have anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system differently by binding to CB2 receptors.
Common Strains
GG#4, Wedding cake, Georgia Pie
Potential Effects
Potential anti-anxiety and stress-relieving effects
Scent & Flavor
Earthy, woody, and spicy with hints of hops
Therapeutic Effects
Potential anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and appetite-suppressant properties. It may also have antibacterial and anti-cancer effects.
Common Strains
White Widow, Headband, Skywalker OG.
Potential Effects
Potential appetite-suppressant properties
Scent & Flavor
Floral, herbal, and sometimes citrusy
Therapeutic Effects
It may have anti-anxiety, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties.
Common Strains
Cherry Bomb, Romulan, Blue Dream
Potential Effects
Alertness and focus. It may have a stimulating effect and can potentially promote a sense of clear-headedness.
Scent & Flavor
Floral, herbal, and sometimes citrusy
Therapeutic Effects
Potential anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-irritant properties. It may also have antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. It is also potentially helpful for soothing skin conditions.
Common Strains
Harle-Tsu, ACDC, Pink Kush
Potential Effects
Calming
Scent & Flavor
Sweet, fruity, and sometimes herbaceous.
Therapeutic Effects
Potential antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. It may also have decongestant and antiseptic effects.
Common Strains
Mint, parsley, kumquats.
Potential Effects
Potential antiviral and decongestant effects. It may also have uplifting properties.
Scent & Flavor
Floral, piney, and sometimes citrusy.
Therapeutic Effects
Potential sedative and relaxing effects. It may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties.
Common Strains
White Widow, Jack Herer, OG Kush.
Potential Effects
Sedating and potentially helpful for promoting relaxation and sleep. It may also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Disclaimer:
This blog post is intended for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. The information provided about terpenes is general and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Individual responses to terpenes can vary, and their effects may be influenced by personal health factors and medications. Before considering any use of terpenes or related products, consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice.
This guide will take a closer look at terpenes and their role in cannabis. We will explore what terpenes are, how they affect the experience of using cannabis, and the potential benefits of terpenes for both recreational and medical users. We will also provide tips for identifying terpenes in cannabis and selecting strains based on their terpene profiles. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis user or just curious about the world of terpenes, read on to learn more about this fascinating aspect of the cannabis plant.
WHAT ARE TERPENES?
Terpenes are a large and diverse class of organic compounds that are found in many different plants, including cannabis. They are characterized by their strong, often pungent aromas and flavours, which can range from sweet and fruity to earthy and musky.
Terpenes are not unique to cannabis and are actually found in many plants, from lavender and eucalyptus to citrus fruits and pine trees. They play an important role in plant growth and development, repelling pests and attract pollinators, and they also help to regulate plant metabolism and other physiological processes.
THE EFFECTS OF TERPENES ON CANNABIS
Terpenes greatly impact cannabis, affecting the user’s experience and therapeutic benefits. They modulate the effects of cannabinoids like THC and CBD, including their:
- Potency
- Duration
- Psychoactive effects
- Flavours
- Aromas
Different terpenes indicate potential effects, such as uplifting or relaxing highs. Additionally, terpenes possess therapeutic properties like analgesic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. They may also have anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, and sedative properties. Understanding a strain’s terpene profile can provide valuable insights into the cannabis experience.
Most Common & Notable Terpenes Found in Cannabis
There are dozens of different terpenes found in cannabis, each with its own unique set of characteristics and effects and distinct flavour notes. However, some terpenes are more commonly found in cannabis than others. We will explore some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis and some of the most interesting and notable effects they are known to produce, Starting with one of the most common terpenes, Myrcene.
MYRCENE
Unlocking The synergistic potential of cannabis
Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in cannabis. It’s known for its earthy, musky aroma and is often associated with a relaxing, sedative high. Myrcene is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Myrcene is known for its dank earthy smell that is often associated with potent cannabis.
Strains that are known to be high in myrcene include OG Kush, Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights, White Lightning.
LIMONENE
ELEVATE YOUR HIGH WITH CITRUS BLISS
Limonene is a citrusy terpene that is commonly found in sativa strains. It is often associated with a more energetic, uplifting high and is believed to have anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties. Fun fact, Cleaning products often have citrus scents because they contain terpenes. Terpenes are an all-natural way to break down grease and dirt, which is helpful in cleaning, plus smelling a citrus scent is a mood booster on top of a clean home (an entourage effect in a different sort of way).
Strains high in limonene include LA Kush Cake, Peach Ringz, Durban Poison, Super Lemon Haze
PINENE
STAY ALERT & FOCUSED WITH THIS PINE-SCENTED TERPENE
Pinene is a pine-scented terpene that is found in many different plants, including cannabis. It is often associated with a more alert, focused high and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator properties. If you have ever taken a walk through a pine forest, inhale and you may notice you can breathe easier and feel more alert. This is Pinene at work. Pinene-rich strains also seem to reduce short-term memory loss associated with other cannabis strains.
Some strains that are high in pinene include Cherry Bomb, White Wedding, Romulan, Blue Dream, Strawberry Cough.
LINALOOL
DISCOVER SOOTHING EFFECTS WITH THIS LAVENDER SCENTED TERPENE
Linalool is a floral terpene that is found in lavender and many other flowers. It is often associated with a more calming sedative high and is believed to have anti-anxiety and analgesic properties. Just like lavender, cannabis strains high in linalool may have calming properties. When consumed or inhaled, linalool can potentially promote relaxation and a sense of calm. Incorporating linalool-rich cannabis strains into a wellness routine can provide a soothing and tranquil experience, similar to the calming effects of lavender essential oil.
Strains high in linalool include Durban, Amnesia haze, Do si-dos, Lavender Kush, Grandaddy Purple, Zkittlez.
HUMULENE
THE TERPENE THAT KEEPS MUNCHIES AT BAY
Humulene is a terpene found in a variety of plants such as coriander, cloves, sage, ginseng and hops. Humulene has an earthy, woody, and spicy scent and flavour with hints of hops. One of the notable characteristics of humulene is its potential as an appetite suppressant. For individuals who prefer to avoid the “munchies” typically associated with cannabis use, strains high in humulene may offer a desirable option. It may also have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects as well.
Strains high in humulene include White Widow, Headband and Skywalker OG
CARYOPHYLENE
THE SPICE that Unveils Therapeutic Qualities
Caryophyllene, a spicy and peppery terpene found in various spices like black pepper, offers therapeutic qualities. It induces a calming and relaxing effect, and is believed to possess anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), and antidepressant properties. Unlike most terpenes, caryophyllene uniquely binds to CB2 receptors, primarily found in the immune system, contributing to its potential anti-inflammatory effects. While non-psychoactive itself, caryophyllene’s benefits can be experienced alongside the psychoactive effects of cannabis strains rich in THC.
Strains high in caryophyllene include GG#4, Sour diesel, Wedding cake, Georgia Pie, Root Beer Float.
HOW TO IDENTIFY TERPENES IN CANNABIS
Identifying terpenes in cannabis can be challenging, but with practice, it becomes possible. Paying attention to the strain’s aroma and flavor is a key way to identify terpenes. For example, citrusy scents indicate strains high in limonene, while musky or earthy aromas suggest strains high in myrcene.
Lab testing results or product labels can also help identify terpenes. Dispensaries and growers often test their products, providing valuable information about the terpene profile and potential effects.
To explore terpenes further, experiment with different strains and terpene profiles. This helps understand how terpenes affect the cannabis experience. Building knowledge of terpenes involves observing flavor and aroma profiles and seeking lab testing results.
Identifying terpenes in cannabis is a valuable skill for those interested in exploring the potential benefits of these compounds.
HOW TO CONSUME CANNABIS TERPENES
1. ORAL CONSUMPTION OF TERPENES: FULL-SPECTRUM OILS AND EDIBLES
With full-spectrum oils and edibles, Terpenes can be consumed orally through edibles, tinctures, and capsules. Full spectrum oils and edibles contain the full range of cannabinoids like THC and CBD but also contain flavonoids and terpenes. This is in contrast to THC and CBD isolates, Which only contain specific cannabinoids (like THC or CBD) but not other compounds like terpenes.
2. SMOKING AND COMBUSTION: TERPENES IN FLOWER, CONCENTRATES, AND PRE-ROLLS
Terpenes can also be consumed through smoking/combustion with flower, concentrates, and pre-rolls. However, smoking cannabis at high temperatures can can potentially burn or destroy terpenes, reducing their effectiveness and potentially altering the overall experience.
3. VAPING: PRESERVING TERPENE PROFILES WITH DRY FLOWER VAPES
Vaping, on the other hand, heats cannabis to a lower temperature, preserving the terpene profile and allowing for better control over the temperature and terpene consumption. Dry flower vapes are an excellent option for consuming cannabis flower with the desired terpene profile at the right temperature. Full Spectrum Vape Cartridges also preserve the terpene profile of the flower that they are extracted from.
UNDERSTANDING BOILING POINTS: MAXIMIZING TERPENE ACTIVATION
Different terpenes have different boiling points, which is the temperature at which they vaporize and become active. This means that if the temperature is too low, the terpenes won’t fully vaporize and won’t have a significant impact on the experience. If the temperature is too high, the terpenes may be destroyed or altered, and the overall experience may be negatively affected.
By understanding the boiling points of different terpenes, cannabis users can make more informed decisions about the strains and products they choose and create a more personalized and tailored cannabis experience. They can use this knowledge to target specific terpenes and to vaporize them at the correct levels to get maximum potential therapeutic or recreational benefits.
UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL: TERPENES FOR AN ENHANCED CANNABIS ADVENTURE
By understanding terpenes’ role in cannabis, you can start to make more informed decisions about the strains and products you choose. Whether you’re a medical cannabis patient looking for specific therapeutic benefits or a recreational user looking for a specific flavour or aroma profile, paying attention to terpenes can help you find the ideal cannabis experience.
If you’re interested in further exploring the world of terpenes, we encourage you to experiment with different strains and terpene profiles. By paying attention to the flavour and aroma profile of different strains and looking for lab testing results, you can start to build your knowledge of terpenes and their effects on cannabis.