THE CANNABIS EXPERIENCE

Beyond THC and CBD: How Terpenes Craft Your Cannabis Experience 

Cannabis connoisseurs love to talk about terpenes and how they shape the effects of their favorite strains. These enthusiasts can often be heard waxing poetically about the “piney aroma” of a particular variety or the “citrusy flavor” of another. But for the uninitiated, all this terpene talk might sound like gibberish. What exactly are these mysterious compounds that have cannabis lovers so excited? 

 

Terpenes are hydrocarbons (made up of hydrogen and carbon molecules), and organic compounds found in many flowers, fruits, vegetable and plants – including cannabis. Terpenes produce color, smell and taste. That red in your tomato? Blame the terpene lycopene. The woodsy smell of pine needles? That exists in part because of the terpene pinene.  

 

But terpenes are more than just nature’s dye or perfume – they play a crucial role in the plant’s biology and can significantly influence the effects of cannabis on the human body. 

“Bonanza prides itself on producing premium, hand-crafted concentrates and edibles, ensuring our customers get the same quality every time.” 

– Conlan Keller

Why terpenes matter 

Terpenes are produced in the same glands that create cannabinoids like THC and CBD. In nature, terpenes serve several purposes for plants, including: 

  • Protection: Their strong scents can repel predators and attract pollinators 
  • Adaptation: Some terpenes help plants tolerate heat or resist fungi. 

When consumed, the terpenes and cannabinoids in cannabis interact to create what’s known as the “entourage effect” – the theory that various cannabis compounds work together synergistically to enhance the plant’s medicinal effects.  

While the cannabis plant contains more than 200 different terpenes, most cannabis products contain only a handful of them. Each cannabis strain contains a unique terpene profile, which contributes to its distinctive aroma, flavor, and effects. This profile is like a fingerprint for the strain, setting it apart from others and influencing the overall experience for the user. 

Common cannabis terpenes and their effects 

Here are the most prevalent terpenes found in cannabis and their potential effects: 

  • Myrcene: Often the most abundant terpene in cannabis, myrcene has an earthy, musky scent reminiscent of cloves. It’s believed to have sedative effects and may enhance the absorption of cannabinoids. Strains high in myrcene are often associated with the “couch-lock” effect. 
  • Limonene: As its name suggests, limonene has a citrusy aroma. It is associated with elevated mood and stress relief. Strains rich in limonene may help alleviate anxiety and depression. 
  • Pinene: With a pine-like scent, pinene is thought to promote alertness and may counteract some of THC’s memory-impairing effects. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties. 
  • Linalool: This terpene, also found in lavender, has a floral scent and is associated with relaxation and anxiety reduction. It may also have analgesic and anticonvulsant properties. 
  • Caryophyllene: With a spicy, peppery aroma, caryophyllene is unique as it can also interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. It is linked to pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects. 
  • Humulene: This terpene, also found in hops, has an earthy, woody scent and may have appetite-suppressing properties. 

Terpenes in popular cannabis strains 

Different cannabis strains have different combinations and concentrations of terpenes, which contribute to their unique effects. For example: 

  • Blue Dream: Known for its sweet berry aroma, this strain is typically high in myrcene and pinene. This combination may promote relaxation while maintaining mental clarity. 
  • Sour Diesel: With its pungent, fuel-like aroma, Sour Diesel is often rich in limonene and caryophyllene. This profile may contribute to its reputed energizing and mood-lifting effects. 
  • OG Kush: This strain often has high levels of myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene. This combination may result in its reported stress-relieving and pain-reducing effects. 

Understanding terpenes adds a new dimension to cannabis appreciation. Just knowing the various aromas and effects of terpenes enhances the consumer experience. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find yourself joining those cannabis enthusiasts eloquently describing the subtle fragrances and flavors that make each strain unique.