Find out how to choose your preferred strain based on cannabis flavor profiles.

There are hundreds of different strains of cannabis, and each one has a unique aroma. For cannabis consumers, that aroma plays a significant role in determining what “high-quality” cannabis really means.

But why are these aromas so important? Are they connected to the active ingredients that make cannabis what it is?

To answer these questions, we have to cover one of the most fascinating subjects in cannabis botany. Cannabis terpenes are responsible for the difference between the sweet, fruity essence of Pineapple Trainwreck and the thick, pungent aroma of Sour Diesel.

What Are Cannabis Terpenes?

Terpenes are aromatic oils that cannabis plants naturally produce. The same glands that produce cannabinoids like THC and CBD also make these flavorful compounds.

Terpenes exist in almost all plants and are especially pronounced in strong-smelling flowers. In the natural world, they play a practical role in repelling predators and luring in pollinators. In the horticultural world, cannabis terpenes help differentiate the effects of different cannabis strains.

Every individual cannabis strain produces a unique combination of terpenes. Their compounds interact with cannabinoids and produce unique effects.

Why Are Cannabis Terpenes Important?

Until recently, cannabis experts understood the differences between strains in terms of species. Experiential qualities like an active, energetic high or a relaxed, sleepy one were correlated to Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica, respectively. 

Terpene research challenges that assumption. Recent studies suggest that the presence (or absence) of certain terpenes has a much more pronounced impact on the cannabis experience. With the right terpene profile, an Indica-based strain may offer an uncharacteristically energetic high, for example.

Terpene Research: What We Know So Far

Scientists have identified five terpenes that appear to drive specific effects in cannabis highs. Research is ongoing, so this list may change as new discoveries come to light:

• Myrcene. Also found in hops, mango, and lemongrass, myrcene has an earthy, herbal aroma and a generally calming effect.

• Pinene. Found in pine needles, rosemary, and dill, pinene has an unmistakable “forest” smell. Its effects are also generally calming in nature.

• Caryophyllene. Found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon, caryophyllene carries a sharp, unique aroma that pierces through others. It is neither calming nor energizing.

• Limonene. Found in citrus fruit rinds and juniper, limonene is responsible for the characteristic lemon scent that citruses (and some cannabis plants) share. It is on the energizing side of the spectrum.

• Terpinolene. Also found in nutmeg, tea, and lilac, terpinolene is the most noticeably fruity terpene in the bunch. It produces an energizing effect.

These terpenes – and the many others yet to be identified – may play a significant role in the human body’s absorption of cannabinoid compounds. This phenomenon is called the Entourage Effect, and it explains why synthetic, pure THC (which has no terpenes) produces such a different effect when compared to cannabis flower and concentrates. 

For newcomers and experienced consumers alike, paying attention to terpene profiles is the best way to decide on the cannabis product you want to use. Picking the right combination will help you achieve the experience you desire.

Sources:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-are-terpenes#effects

https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/terpenes-the-flavors-of-cannabis-aromatherapy

The Case for the Entourage Effect and Conventional Breeding of Clinical Cannabis: No “Strain,” No Gain

https://www.medicaljane.com/category/cannabis-classroom/terpenes/