The unique fragrance of cannabis strains, ranging from floral sweetness to earthy musk, is a key aspect of its appeal. However, the aroma of cannabis does more than merely titillate our olfactory senses. It hints at the unique composition of chemical compounds that impart distinct therapeutic and psychoactive properties to each strain. Among these compounds, terpenes are primarily responsible for the aromatic essence of cannabis, playing a vital role in defining the strain’s character and effects.
Unravelling the World of Terpenes
Terpenes are naturally occurring aromatic compounds found in countless plants, playing a pivotal role in their defense mechanism and reproduction. From the soothing scent of lavender to the refreshing aroma of citrus fruits, terpenes are the invisible artists behind these olfactory masterpieces. Interestingly, terpenes are not exclusive to the plant kingdom. They are found in certain animals, contributing to the distinct characteristics of their egg yolks, fish scales, and feathers.
In the context of cannabis, terpenes are produced within the resinous glands or trichomes of the female plants, adding to the plant’s color, flavor, and aroma. These compounds also serve as the plant’s natural defense mechanism, detering predators while attracting pollinators.
However, the terpene profile of a cannabis plant is not static. Various factors such as light exposure, temperature, nutrients, and harvest timing can influence terpene production, contributing to the diversity in cannabis strains.
The Therapeutic Potential of Terpenes
Beyond their roles in the plant world, terpenes have been recognized for their therapeutic and medicinal properties. They are integral to the composition of essential oils and spices, which have long been used for their healing qualities.
For instance, Curcumin, a terpene found in the popular Indian spice turmeric, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Similarly, Thyme, another terpene-rich spice, exhibits antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Green tea, Rooibos, and Turmeric teas, loved for their calming and healing attributes, owe their benefits to the terpenes present in them. These terpenes are known for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and calming characteristics.
In the realm of cannabis, the terpenes share some common ground with THC and CBD, the primary psychoactive compounds of the plant. Like THC and CBD, cannabis terpenes exhibit a range of therapeutic attributes that include analgesic, anti-anxiety, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Decoding the Cannabis Terpenes
In cannabis, the terpenes play an influential role in defining the strain’s character and effects. They are classified as primary and secondary terpenes, with the primary ones having a major influence on the plant’s appearance, taste, and aroma, while the secondary ones add depth to these characteristics.
Cannabis strains are divided into two primary categories, Indica and Sativa, based on their hybrid traits, taste, aroma, and effects. Typically, Indica strains provide an overall body relaxation, while Sativa strains are known for their energizing, creative highs. However, these effects go beyond the Indica vs. Sativa division. The variety and concentration of terpenes in a particular strain determine whether it’s an Indica or Sativa.
Here’s a glimpse into some common primary and secondary terpenes found in cannabis:
Primary Terpenes
1. Pinene
Derived from pine tree resin, Pinene is known for its outdoorsy, earthy aroma. It exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and bronchial dilator properties, and is found in strains like Haze Berry, OG Kush, and Blue Dream.
2. Humulene
Boasting an outdoorsy, woodsy scent, Humulene is used as an appetite suppressant and an anti-inflammatory. It’s present in strains such as Gelato, Atlantis, and Sour Diesel.
3. Limonene
Characterized by a bright, citrusy scent, Limonene uplifts the mood, reduces anxiety and depression, and aids digestion. It’s found in strains like Wedding Cake, Quantum Kush, and Berry White.
4. Myrcene
Known for its earthy, clove-like smell, Myrcene is famous for inducing body relaxation or “couch-lock.” It also enhances absorption through the skin and increases the concentration of cannabinoids in the brain. Strains like OG Kush, Girl Scout Cookies, and Grape Ape are rich in Myrcene.
Secondary Terpenes
1. Borneol
Featuring a minty aroma and flavor with an underlying metallic tone, Borneol is used as an anti-inflammatory and an analgesic. It’s found in strains like K13-Haze, Golden Haze, and Amnesia Haze.
2. Phytol
With floral tones, Phytol induces relaxation and is used for its sedative, anti-anxiety, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s present in strains like Sour Diesel, Blue Dream, and Cheese.
3. Eucalyptol
Known for its cooling menthol, minty scent, Eucalyptol has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It’s a component of strains like Girl Scout Cookies, AC/DC, and Headband.
4. Sabinene
Featuring a unique peppery or spicy scent, Sabinene exhibits anti-bacterial and antioxidant properties. It’s found in the strain Super Silver Haze.
Emerging research suggests that terpenes and cannabinoids in cannabis work together to enhance their individual effects, a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect.” In essence, the combined effect of cannabinoids and terpenes is greater than the sum of their individual effects.
For instance, terpenes appear to influence the effects of THC and CBD in the body. A study on people with epilepsy found that those who took full-spectrum CBD extract, which includes cannabinoids and terpenes, experienced improved symptoms and fewer side effects than those who took CBD isolate.
While much remains unknown about terpenes and their interactions with other terpenes, cannabinoids, and flavonoids present in cannabis, growing clinical interest in these aromatic compounds is yielding some fascinating findings, promising a more sophisticated understanding of terpenes in the future.
Wrapping Up
Terpenes are the unsung heroes in the world of cannabis, contributing significantly to the unique sensory and therapeutic experiences associated with different strains. As research continues to explore the diverse world of cannabis terpenes, we can expect to uncover more about their potential uses and benefits, adding another layer of complexity and intrigue to the multifaceted cannabis plant.