What To Know About Cannabis Terpenes

People have smoked cannabis for stress relief and relaxation for many years. But since it was first cultivated, its most adept users have discovered that some are unequal. Different strains offer different levels of smell, flavor, and even benefits. 

Terpenes proved to be the reason behind this. These chemical compounds give cannabis its special kick, making it something sought out. Through years of specialized cultivation methods and advancements in agricultural technology, the number and concentration of terpenes in weed strains can now be modified to suit specific needs. Whether they want an extra bite in every puff or deeper relaxation states, there’s a strain for every user.

Numerous terpenes exist, with the latest estimates putting it around 150. Some have minimal effects, while others significantly impact your smoking or dabbing experience.

Any long-time cannabis enthusiast can tell you just how much terpenes dictate every session. But why does something like that have this kind of visceral effect on users?

It all comes down to biochemistry. Your sense of smell is directly linked to the parts of your brain responsible for controlling memory and emotions, known as the hypothalamic and limbic areas. Nerve signals are created by the exchange of chemicals across synapses.

As olfactory (meaning nasal) stimuli, terpene-filled smoke directly stimulates the nerves in your nose, sending immediate reactions through the brain. This makes it release pleasure hormones, giving users that light, airy feeling.

So, how do you make the most of them? Here’s what enthusiasts and newcomers need to know about terpenes.

Different Strains Of Cannabis Have Different Terpene Profiles

As mentioned before, there’s a strain for every kind of cannabis user. If you’re thinking of getting a specific level of sharpness or smoothness in your hits, you must choose strains with specific terpene profiles. These can be natural and synthetic and should be found on the packaging or product details whenever you buy from a trusted dispensary.

For example, if you haven’t given the gelato weed strain a go, now is the perfect time to do it. Gelato flowers have a dark purple color, lengthy orange hairs, and a dense layer of milky white trichomes.

This concentrated layer holds a high amount of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds, giving it an unforgettable potency and aroma when used.

Furthermore, gelato can have different scents and flavors depending on the phenotype, grower, and cultivation method. It blends pleasant, earthy, and gaseous tastes with terpenes such as caryophyllene and humulene. It’s known for providing a calming, uplifting feeling.

The Importance Of Terpenes To Cannabis

Terpenes are found in the trichomes of female cannabis seeds. These are viscous, transparent resin glands that conceal the exterior of the buds and some of the contents on the leaves. They’re essential to helping the cannabis plant flourish and survive by shielding them from insects and ultraviolet rays. They also ensure the leaves and buds are shaded, allowing the plant to keep its unique properties, including the compounds that make up terpenes. 

Other factors influencing these substances include temperature, lighting, nutrition, and cultivation methods.

Predominant Cannabis Terpenes

There are numerous types of terpenes, each one offering unique effects. The most predominant ones are:

• Myrcene: It’s a prevalent terpene found in many cannabis strains. It has a distinctive aroma characterized as herby, spicy, or earthy. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate symptoms of conditions like osteoarthritis. It may also slow the disease’s progress and reduce the breakdown of cartilage.
• Linalool: I It’s found in hundreds of plant species, giving them a floral, spicy scent. It’s a significant contributor to the typical smell of marijuana. It has been found to aid in relieving anxiety and depression symptoms through its fragrance, which acts as a natural anxiolytic.
• Caryophyllene: Also known as beta-caryophyllene, it’s a terpene that imparts a spicy flavor to some cannabis strains and plants, such as cloves, black pepper, and rosemary. Caryophyllene can uniquely link to the CB2 receptor in the body’s immune system, making it qualify as an atypical cannabinoid. It has also been found to relieve the symptoms of diabetes, anxiety, and Alzheimer’s.
• Limonene: It’s a terpene with a refreshing citrusy smell dominant in many cannabis strains with fruity scent profiles. It has been shown to modify the behavior of specific immune cells in the body, boosting it against various disorders. It may also enhance the production of antibody-producing cells found in the bone marrow. Moreover, it’s said to have mood-elevating properties. It’s also said to aid in digestion, enhancing gut health.
• Pinene: It’s made from plants such as pine, giving it a fantastic earthy, outdoorsy aroma. Research shows it can help you stay focused and attentive if you take it in the proper doses. It’s also said to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Humulene: It’s found in various strains, and its scent has a soft, spicy edge. It’s also present with caryophyllene and paired with other types of terpenes for more enhanced effects. Aside from its purported anti-inflammatory properties, humulene is often used as an appetite suppressant.

These are some of the common terpenes responsible for the unique scent and flavor of cannabis strains. Compare them to better customize your puffing experience.

Effects Of Terpenes On Your Body

Terpenes in isolation can’t get you high. However, they have a subtle, indirect effect whenever you smoke, dab, or vape cannabis. As you can see above, cannabis terpenes are not only used to make flavoring and essential oils. Some users attest to them having the following properties:

• Antidepressant: Linalool has been shown to provide relief from depression symptoms. 
• Antiviral: The chemicals in caryophyllene and carvone seem to help prevent the spread of viruses.
• Analgesic: Terpenes like linalool, humulene, limonene, caryophyllene, myrcene, and pinene have been shown to relieve pain.
• Anti-cancer: Beta-caryophyllene, limonene, and camphor seem to help prevent the development of cancers.

The research is not conclusive on any of these things. Terpenes are not an alternative to actual medical treatment. But they may work as ancillary forms of relief.

For actual medical intervention, seek professional help. For everything else, you don’t have to limit your options.

Take Your Pick

Cannabis terpenes are essential in various weed strains, making them a huge part of your smoking and dabbing experience. The key is to find the strain with the profile you want for more customized sessions. Compare your choices and enjoy.

Remember to source your weed ethically and keep everything safe for everyone.