Cannabis terpenes are fragrant oils that give different types of cannabis their unique aroma and flavor. Terpenes are found in a variety of plants, including cannabis, and are responsible for creating the fragrance of flowers, fruits and herbs.
Terpenes are more than a way of adding flavor and aroma to cannabis strains. They also play a significant role in determining strain effects. Understanding the different terpenes in cannabis can help users choose a strain that will produce the desired effects.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of cannabis terpenes, their health benefits, how to consume them, and examples of cannabis strains that contain them.
What are cannabis terpenes?
Terpenes are a group of organic compounds found in the essential oils of plants. They are responsible for the aroma and taste of various plants, including cannabis.
Terpenes in cannabis not only provide aroma and flavor, but also have a significant impact on the effects of the strain. Different terpenes can produce different effects, such as relaxation or increased focus.
When terpenes combine with other compounds in cannabis, such as cannabinoids, they can create entourage effect. This effect can enhance the effects of the cannabis strain and produce a more significant effect.
Popular cannabis terpenes
• Limonene is a citrus-scented terpene found in a variety of species lemon weed strains. It is known for its mood-lifting effects and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
• Pinenes is a terpene found in pine trees and is responsible for the smell of pine needles. It is also found in some strains of cannabis and can produce a calming effect and improve focus.
• Myrcene is a terpene found in hops and mangoes, and is also found in many strains of cannabis. It can produce a sedative effect and help relieve pain.
• Linalool is a floral terpene found in lavender and many strains of cannabis. It can produce a relaxing effect and help with anxiety and stress.
• Caryophyllene is a hot terpene found in black pepper and many types of cannabis. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve pain.
• Humulene is a terpene found in hops that can produce an appetite suppressant effect. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Terpinolene is a terpene found in many herbs and spices, including cumin and nutmeg. It is also found in some strains of cannabis and can have a calming effect.
Health benefits of cannabis terpenes
• Anti-inflammatory properties. Many of the terpenes found in cannabis, such as caryophyllene and humulene, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain.
• Anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects. Terpenes such as limonene and linalool can produce a calming effect and help reduce stress and anxiety. They may also have antidepressant properties.
• Pain relief. Myrcene and caryophyllene are two terpenes found in cannabis that can help relieve pain.
• Neuroprotective effects. Some terpenes, such as pinene, have neuroprotective effects that can help protect the brain from damage and improve memory.
How to consume cannabis terpenes
• Smoking Cannabis is one way to consume terpenes, but it can also lead to lung irritation and other health problems.
• Evaporation cannabis is a healthier alternative to smoking and can still provide the benefits of terpenes.
• Edible productssuch as gummies or brownies, may also contain terpenes and provide a longer-lasting effect.
• Current topicssuch as creams or balms, can be applied directly to the skin and provide localized pain relief.
Examples of cannabis strains with delicious terpenes
• Blue Dream is a sativa-dominant strain containing the terpenes myrcene, pinene and caryophyllene. It has a sweet berry aroma and can produce an invigorating and creative effect.
• Pineapple Express is a hybrid strain that contains the terpenes limonene, pinene and caryophyllene. It has a tropical aroma and can produce a happy and energetic effect.
• Girl Scout Cookies is an indica-dominant strain that contains the terpenes caryophyllene, limonene, and humulene. It has a sweet and earthy aroma and can cause a relaxing and euphoric effect.
• Sour Diesel is a sativa-dominant strain containing the terpenes myrcene, limonene and caryophyllene. It has a diesel-like aroma and can produce an energetic and invigorating effect.
• The White Widow is a hybrid strain containing the terpenes caryophyllene, humulene and myrcene. It has a spicy and earthy aroma and can produce a relaxed and creative effect.
• Gelato is an indica-dominant strain that contains the terpenes limonene, caryophyllene and humulene. It has a sweet and fruity aroma and can cause a relaxing and euphoric effect.
Final thoughts
Cannabis terpenes play a significant role in determining the effects of different strains and can provide different health benefits.
Understanding the different terpenes in cannabis can help users choose a strain that will produce the desired effects and provide a more enjoyable experience.
Explore different strains and consumption methods to experience the terpene benefits of cannabis for yourself. Always consult a healthcare professional before using cannabis for medical purposes.
