Wild and Whimsical World of Terpenes

WELCOME TO THE WILD AND WHIMSICAL WORLD OF TERPENES A PIVOTAL PART OF THE CANNABIS EXPERIENCE

pile of cut up fruits and spices on a marble background

Today, we're going to clear the smoke on the mostly misunderstood world of terpenes. These tiny, yet powerful organic compounds play a huge role in shaping your cannabis experience, so buckle up and get ready to expand your mind.

TERPENES: THE AROMA ARTISTS OF THE PLANT KINGDOM

You know that distinct aroma you get when you open a fresh bag of your favorite strain? That's terpenes working their magic! These captivating compounds are the maestros behind the signature scents of not just cannabis, but a wide variety of plants and even some insects.

Terpenes are responsible for the flavors and scents we love, like the zest of a lemon or the calming fragrance of lavender. They've been around for millions of years, evolving alongside plants as a way to attract pollinators, repel predators, and protect plants from environmental stress. It's safe to say that terpenes have a big job, and they do it in style!

But, the magic of terpenes doesn't stop at aromas and flavors. When combined with cannabinoids like THC, CBG and CBD, terpenes synergize to create the "entourage effect," which can amplify the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. This collaboration is what sets cannabis apart from other plants and makes it a truly one-of-a-kind botanical wonder.

Cannabis images mixed with flowers and other terpene containing plants

TERPENES & CANNABIS: A MATCH MADE IN BOTANICAL HEAVEN

There are over 200 terpenes in cannabis. Some terpenes are more common and important in cannabis than others. Limonene, which is from citrus fruits, has been shown to support the immune system, while also being effective in healing wounds. Another important terpene in cannabis is myrcene which gives off an earthy, musky, sometimes spicy smell. It is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis.

Beta-Caryophyllene is another terpene that is highly aromatic and usually found in black pepper, rosemary and hops. It defends your immune system and acts as a gastric cytoprotective, meaning it can help protect the stomach.

Cannabis is full of different compounds: namely cannabinoids, flavonoids and common plant compounds. The cannabinoids we’re interested in are THC, which induce the high associated with cannabis (obviously) and CBD, which is rapidly becoming more popular, especially due to its benefits without the high. There are many other cannabinoids in cannabis like CBG, CBN, THCV, THCA and more.

Pile of cut in half lemons and limes on a white background.

WHAT ABOUT FLAVONOIDS?

Next up are the flavonoids. What are flavonoids? These produce non-green pigmentation in plants as well as enhance flavor, enhance smell, and are pharmacologically active.

In conclusion, the fascinating world of terpenes significantly enriches your cannabis experience, from enticing aromas to enhanced therapeutic effects. As new terpenes continue to be discovered we will learn what these tiny organic compounds bring to the table for cannabis consumers!