Terpenes are natural compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the distinct aromas and flavors of different strains and play a crucial role in the overall cannabis experience. Understanding terpenes and their effects can help you choose the right strain for your needs and improve your cannabis journey.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic molecules produced in the same glands that produce cannabinoids like THC and CBD. They give cannabis its unique smell and taste, contributing to the plant's therapeutic properties. Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in cannabis, each with its own distinct profile and effects.
Read our article explaining the main differences between THC and CBD here!
Importance of Terpenes in Cannabis
Terpenes not only affects the sensory experience of cannabis but also interacts with cannabinoids to affect the plant's overall impact on the body. This interaction is known as theentourage effect, where the combination of different compounds produces a more significant effect than any single compound alone. There are many types of Terpenes, so let's go through them.
Myrcene:
- Aroma: Earthy, musky, with hints of cloves.
- Effects: Known for its sedative and relaxing properties, making it ideal for nighttime use.
- Strain Example: Blue Dream.
Limonene:
- Aroma: Citrus, lemon.
- Effects: Elevates mood and provides stress relief, often used in daytime strains.
- Strain Example: Sour Diesel.
Linalool:
- Aroma: Floral, lavender.
- Effects: Provides calming and anti-anxiety effects, commonly found in strains used for relaxation.
- Strain Example: Amnesia Haze.
Pinene:
- Aroma: Pine, fresh forest.
- Effects: Promotes alertness and memory retention, often used in strains for focus and creativity.
- Strain Example:West Coast.
Caryophyllene:
- Aroma: Spicy, peppery.
- Effects: Known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, unique for its ability to bind to cannabinoid receptors.
- Strain Example: Girl Scout Cookies.
The Influence of Entourage
Terpenes and cannabinoids work cooperatively to produce the entourage effect. This action makes cannabis more strong and balanced while also enhancing its therapeutic advantages. For instance, compared to a strain with high levels of CBD alone, a strain high in both the terpene myrcene and CBD may provide better pain relief.
Want to try it for yourself? Take our recommendations at Weedz! Blue Dream is known for its balanced high, combining the relaxing effects of myrcene with the uplifting properties of its sativa genetics. This strain is perfect for users seeking relief from pain and stress without heavy sedation. On the other hand, Sour Diesel features high levels of limonene. This gives it a citrusy aroma and provides uplifting and energizing effects, making it great for daytime use.
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