As the cannabis industry evolves, so does the science behind it. Cannabis cultivators are discovering new information behind Mary Jane every day and consumers are finally starting to realize there is a lot more to weed than just THC content. These days, our team cares more about a strong terpene profile than any heady THC percentages.
Not familiar with terpenes? Thats ok.
They’re still new to most of us veteran smokers too.
Terpenes are the fragrant essential oils that exist in all plants and the skin of fruits. If grown right, cannabis flower can be brimming with smelly terpenes that may affect the experience of smoking it.
Have you ever smoked and tasted distinctive flavors like lemon, orange, blueberry, mint, or pine? Those flavors came from the terpenes of the cannabis plant. It is important to note that all plants actually have terpenes and some of them you might be familiar with. Linalool is most known for lavender, pinene for pine scents, and limonene for your classic lemon or lime.
Early on in the legal cannabis days, Leafly.com created a strain wheel that helped explain some info as well as bridge the gap for people trying to understand terpenes and cannabis at a higher level. You might notice that certain strains and “flavors” tend to fall in line with other similar terpene profiles.
Leafly Strain Wheel
Located in the same glands that produce cannabinoids like THC and CBD, terpenes are the oils that bring cannabis to life. Cannabis can be noticeably better from one producer to the next, and oftentimes it has little to do with overall THC.
The Entourage Effect
The cannabis plant contains over 100 cannabinoid compounds. Aside from THC and CBD, there are several other compounds that each strain produces that may play a supporting role in how it affects you. The idea that all of the cannabis compounds work together (terpenes included) to create unique benefits and effects is called the “entourage effect.” With anything you eat or drink, the smell and taste of it play a huge role, so the same naturally applies to weed.
The next time you’re looking to get the most potent buds, we suggest asking your budtender about the flavor profile and really taking what they say into consideration.
Keep your bullshit detector on high alert though because many budtenders aren’t able to try the most expensive or best stuff in the store that often and that means that many of the staff are selling products simply because they have them available.
FAQ: Cannabis or Plant Terpene Information
What is a terpene?
A terpene is a natural aromatic compound produced by plants. In cannabis, a terpene gives each strain its unique aroma, flavor, and may influence how the effects feel.
Why is a terpene important in cannabis?
A terpene not only provides distinctive smells like citrus, pine, or lavender, but also contributes to the overall cannabis experience. Many consumers now look at the terpene profile more than THC percentage when choosing flower.
Does a terpene affect your high?
A terpene does not create a psychoactive high on its own, but it can shape how cannabinoids like THC and CBD interact in the body. This is part of what’s known as the entourage effect.
What is the most common terpene in cannabis?
The most common terpene found in cannabis is myrcene, which has an earthy, musky aroma. Other well-known terpene types include limonene, pinene, caryophyllene, and linalool.
What does a terpene profile mean?
A terpene profile is the breakdown of which terpenes appear in a cannabis strain and in what concentration. This profile helps predict aroma, taste, and potential effects such as relaxation or energy.
What are the benefits of a terpene?
A terpene may offer benefits like anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, antibacterial, or analgesic properties, depending on the type. Research is ongoing, but evidence suggests a terpene can play a role in wellness and mood.
Is a terpene only found in cannabis?
No. A terpene is present in many plants and fruits, including pine trees, lavender, lemons, and mangoes. Cannabis is simply one of the richest sources of diverse terpene types.
What is the entourage effect and how does a terpene fit in?
The entourage effect describes how cannabinoids and a terpene interact in the body. Together, they may enhance or balance each other’s effects, creating a more personalized cannabis experience.
Which terpene is best for anxiety?
A terpene like limonene may help uplift mood, while linalool is often associated with calmness and stress relief. Individual results vary, but many users choose strains with these terpenes for anxiety support.
Can a terpene be used outside of cannabis?
Yes. A terpene is widely used in perfumes, essential oils, and even food products because of its strong aromatic qualities and potential therapeutic benefits.
At the end of the day, understanding a terpene is just as important as knowing the THC or CBD levels in your cannabis. From shaping aroma and flavor to influencing effects, a terpene plays a central role in why each strain feels unique. By paying closer attention to the terpene profile, you can move beyond the numbers on a label and start making choices that actually match your body, mood, and preferences.
As cannabis continues to evolve, so will our knowledge of how each terpene impacts the experience. If you’re chasing uplifting citrus notes, calming earthy tones, or spicy aromas that ground you, learning about terpenes unlocks a new level of appreciation for the plant.
The more you know about terpene science, the easier it becomes to find strains that truly resonate with you.
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