Terpenes and What Do They Mean for Cannabis?
Terpenes and what do they mean for cannabis. Terpenes have become a hot topic recently in the cannabis world. In fact, they’re one of the major ways that cannabis researchers and consumers alike are beginning to categorize cannabis products and predict their effects.
But what exactly are they? And what do they mean for cannabis? In this article, we’ll cover what terpenes are and detail fifteen of the most commonly found ones in weed.
What Is a Terpene?
Terpenes are aromatic hydrocarbons found in the essential oils of plants. They are responsible for the scent, taste, and color of various plants. In addition, plants use terpenes to attract pollinators, ward off predators, and protect against herbivores.
In terms of cannabis, terpenes aren’t intoxicating on their own. But, when paired with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, they can have therapeutic benefits.
There are over 150 different terpenes that have been identified in cannabis.
Common Terpenes Found in Cannabis
Below are fifteen of the most common terpenes found in cannabis. Each one has a unique aroma and potential therapeutic benefits.
1. Limonene
Also found in lemons, limes, oranges, people often describe this terpene as citrusy, lemon-like, or tangy. It is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis.
Limonene is considered to have potential anti-anxiety and stress-relieving properties. In addition, it may also have antibacterial and antifungal uses.
2. Caryophyllene
This terpene is in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. Its aroma has been described as peppery, spicy, or woody.
Caryophyllene is thought to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties.
3. Myrcene
This terpene is found in hops, mangoes, lemongrass, and thyme. Its aroma has been described as earthy, musky, or herbal.
Myrcene is thought to be a sedative , and it is often used as a treatment for insomnia. Additionally, it is said to have antioxidant properties.
4. Pinene
This terpene is also found in basil, rosemary, and pine needles. Its aroma is woody, sweet, or like pine needles.
Pinene is thought to be an anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator with possible memory-enhancing properties.
5. Linalool
This terpene is also found in lavender. Its aroma has been described as floral, sweet, or like candy.
Linalool is thought to have sedative and anxiolytic effects. Additionally, it is said to be an immunostimulant.
6. Humulene
This terpene is also found in hops and coriander. Its aroma has been described as woody, earthy, or spicy.
Humulene is thought to be an appetite suppressant . In addition, it may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
7. Terpinolene
This terpene is also found in nutmeg, tea tree, and conifers. Its aroma has been described as floral, piney, or herbal.
Terpinolene may have sedative and antibacterial properties .
8. Bisabolol
This terpene is also found in chamomile. Its aroma has been described as sweet, floral, or like honey. This potentially relaxing terpene is also good for your skin.
9. Ocimene
This terpene is present in basil, mangoes, orchids, and kumquats. Its aroma has been described as sweet, floral, or fruity.
Current research suggests that ocimene may work as an inflammation suppressant .
10. Terpineol
This terpene is also found in lilacs and eucalyptus trees. Its aroma has been described as piney, floral, or like citrus.
Potential benefits attributed to terpineol include being a sedative and an antioxidant .
11. Valencene
This terpene is known for its distinct aroma found in Valencia oranges. Its aroma has been described as like oranges, sweet, or floral.
Valencene is thought to have anti-inflammatory and is also commonly used as a repellant.
12. Geraniol
This terpene is also found in germaniums and tobacco. Its aroma is described as rose-like, lemon-like, or fruity.
Geraniol may have potential antioxidant, neuroprotectant, and anti-spasmodic properties .
13. Trans-Nerolidol
This terpene is also found in jasmine and neroli. Its aroma has been described as floral, woody, or citrusy.
Trans-nerolidol is thought to have antiparasitic, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties .
14. Pulegone
This terpene is also found in catnip and mint. Its aroma has been described as minty, mentholated, or like pine.
Pulegone is believed to have possible anti-anxiety and memory-enhancing effects .
15. Eucalyptol
This terpene is also found in eucalyptus and tea tree oil. Its aroma has been described as minty, camphoraceous, or like spices Eucalyptol has been used as a therapeutic for centuries. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory , analgesic, and antibacterial properties.
Different Uses for Terpenes
Now that we know a bit more about terpenes, let’s explore some different ways you can use them.As we mentioned before, terpenes can be used to classify cannabis products and predict their effects. For example, if a cannabis product has high levels of limonene, it might be more energizing and uplifting.Terpenes can also be used to create custom cannabis experiences. For example, if you want a more relaxing experience, you might look for a strain with high levels of linalool.
What Terpenes Mean for the Future of Cannabis
The cannabis industry is still in its infancy, and much is to be learned about this amazing plant. As we continue to learn more about cannabis, the role of terpenes will become increasingly important.
Terpene infusions are just one example of how cannabis products are becoming more sophisticated. We can expect to see even more innovative products and technologies that use terpenes.
Soon, you will be able to select strains based not only on their THC and CBD content but also on the specific terpenes that they contain. This will allow you to tailor your cannabis experience to your particular needs and preferences.
The future of cannabis is bright, and terpenes are poised to play a significant role in shaping the cannabis landscape.
In Summary
Terpenes are aromatic organic compounds found in the essential oils of plants. They are responsible for the scent, flavor, and color of various vegetation.
While terpenes don’t have any intoxicating effects on their own, they can interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to produce therapeutic benefits.
At DC Dabbers Club, we are proud to offer some of the best cannabis in DC. So if you’re looking for a dispensary near me, stop by and check us out today! Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have about terpenes and what they can do for you.