Fact Checked by Doctor NameTerpenes are aromatic compounds found abundantly in cannabis and other plants.
They provide characteristic scents and flavors and also modulate the effects and health benefits of marijuana.
Finding the right terpene profile can enhance the cannabis experience.
What are Terpenes?
Table of Contents
Terpenes are a large, diverse class of organic hydrocarbons produced in the resin glands of plants. Over 20,000 distinct terpenes exist in nature.
Over 100 terpenes exist in cannabis strains. Popular marijuana terpenes are myrcene, limonene, pinene, linalool, and caryophyllene.
Terpenes give cannabis its unique aromatic qualities based on the specific terpene composition.
For example, pinene provides a piney scent, while limonene conveys citrusy aromas.
Additionally, terpenes interact with other cannabis compounds to influence subjective effects.
They play a major role in differentiating strain effects and flavors.
What are the Benefits of Terpenes?
In addition to providing aromatic diversity, terpenes offer various therapeutic benefits:
- Myrcene induces relaxation and acts as a sedative
- Limonene elevates mood and relieves stress
- Pinene counters memory loss and improves focus
- Linalool provides anti-anxiety and anti-insomnia effects
- Caryophyllene reduces inflammation and pain
Research also shows terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids to enhance medicinal properties.
This “entourage effect” results in full-spectrum benefits from the combined actions of terpenes and cannabinoids.
How do I Find Terpenes?
You can identify terpenes first through smell. Strains high in limonene will smell citrusy, while myrcene conveys earthy, fruity odors.
Also, look for terpene testing on product labels, which specify percentages of major terpenes.
Online strain resources provide information on the characteristic terpene profile of different marijuana types.
Look for strains rich in your desired terpene effects. Using concentrates or optimizing intake methods also helps retain terpenes.
With the right aroma and knowledge, you can utilize terpenes to enhance cannabis’ benefits.
