Cannabis Terpene Guide
Cannabis terpenes are the aromatic compounds found within the plant that help identify the medicinal benefits of different marijuana strains. Use our guide to discover the most common terpene profiles found in the cannabis plant.
Understanding Cannabis Terpenes
Terpenes, in combination with cannabinoids, blend for specific therapeutic benefits and psychoactive results. Terpenes also determine the scent of specific strains. Dependent upon which receptors they are interacting with, terpenes can relax, energize, stimulate, or sedate the patient. When terpenes are blended with certain cannabinoids, growers and the engineers of specific strains can control the potency, activity, and feelings induced in the user. This makes for an ease of use and the possibility for all patients to find not only a comfortable strain but one that is tailored to the needs of their condition.
The cannabis plant contains a complex profile of terpenes that help shape each strain. There are more than 150 different known cannabis terpenes and approximately 100 different other cannabinoid compounds.
Keep reading to learn more about some of the most prominent and talked about terpenes in cannabis.
Limonene
Limonene is associated with citrus aromas. It is a powerful medical aid when combined with certain cannabinoids to provide stress-relief, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects as well as digestive aid and relief of stomach pain.
You’ll usually find this in strains like Tangie or Wedding Cake. It has a sour, citrusy flavor. You may discover terpene in fruits like oranges and lemons. Its scent may help in relieving stress and anxiety.
Linalool
This terpene produces a floral or woody aroma and is found in high concentration in lavender. Linalool is one of the oldest sedatives in recorded history and provides anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects, pain-relief, and acts as a muscle relaxant.
Myrcene
This terpene is responsible for the earthy or clove aromas. Myrcene passes through the blood brain barrier allowing for a higher uptake of cannabinoids. It has been found to have the following medical uses: pain relief, antioxidant effects, muscle relaxant, and anti-carcinogenic effects.
Pinene
A common terpene with the aroma of pine, rosemary, dill, basil, or parsley. It is known to provide some medical benefits. These benefits include: anti-inflammatory effects, pain relief, and inducing of an alert mind state.
β(beta) Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene (or β-Caryophyllene) is a spicy, peppery terpene found in many different edible plants. It is also the only terpene known to interact with the CB2 receptor without interfering with THC intake.
