What Are Cannabis Terpenes And What Do They Do?

You’ve probably noticed that different strains of weed omit various aromas or make you feel differently when you use them, even if your method of delivery is the same.

This is because - in addition to cannabinoids - cannabis contains unique terpenes that are responsible for giving each plant its own smell and medicinal properties.

In this guide, we’ll explain what cannabis terpenes are, how they work, and which ones you should look for in your favourite strains of weed.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants. In the wild, terpenes help protect plants from outside invaders and disease. They may also provide some of the same healing and protective benefits in humans, too.

Keep in mind that terpenes are not the same thing as terpenoids, despite being similar in name. Terpenes refer to the natural form of the compounds present in a living plant. When the plant becomes dried up, the terpenes oxidize and turn into terpenoids.

Along with THC and CBD, the two primary cannabinoids found in cannabis, terpenes give each strain of weed its own unique flavour, scent, and effects on the brain and body. However, their mechanism of action within the cannabis plant is slightly different than a cannabinoid compound.

Terpenes vs. Cannabinoids: What’s The Difference?

Both terpenes and cannabinoids work by binding to receptors within the endocannabinoid system. However, terpenes are absorbed differently than cannabinoids.

Despite this, there is research that shows that terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids to give each strain its unique effects on users, which is known as the entourage effect.

This theory implies that terpenes either alter or enhance the effect of CBD or THC on the mind and body.

According to one study, people with epilepsy who took CBD had better results and fewer side effects than people who took purified CBD. This data suggests that other compounds in weed, such as terpenes, may alter how the body uses CBD.

Another study found that terpenes contain many benefits when used alone without cannabinoids and that they may be a form of alternative medicine.

Types of Cannabis Terpenes

Limonene

There are many different types of cannabis terpenes in the wild, but only a handful have been scientifically studied. Among them, limonene is one of the most common, due to its distinct aroma. Cannabis strains that contain limonene have a citrus or lemon-like taste and smell.

According to one study, limonene contains anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory,
 antioxidant, anti-viral, and anti-diabetic properties.
Limone also appears to modulate the way immune cells work, which can help protect against
diseases and other conditions.

Linalool

Linalool is another common type of terpene found in cannabis plants. It has a rich floral scent and may make your cannabis strain smell like lavender.

Research shows that linalool contains anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-depressant, anti-cancer, anti-anxiety, and neuroprotective properties.

Pinene

There are two types of pinene: a-pinene and b-pinene. It’s responsible for the pine-fresh and herby scent you may notice in some of your favourite strains of weed.

Research shows that pinene may act as a bronchodilator to allow more air to come into your lungs. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and may be able to fight against infections.

Myrcene

Myrcene is a cannabis terpene that commonly smells like lemongrass, thyme, and hops. Research shows that it contains powerful antioxidant abilities that may be able to protect the brain against damage after a stroke.

It may also contain a similar protective effect in heart tissue. According to one study, myrcene can be used as a form of alternative medicine after an ischemic stroke.

Additionally, myrcene can also be used to help prevent the breakdown of cartilage cells, which may be helpful when combined with other treatments for osteoarthritis.

How To Pick Out Weed Based On Terpene Profile

You can use the terpene profile in weed to help you pick out the best strain for you. For example, many users find that some terpenes have a relaxing effect while others are more uplifting. You can also pick out your weed based on the flavour of terpenes.

Here are some quick tips for picking out weed based on its terpene profile:

• Choose high limonene strains for a pleasant citrus flavour and yellow hint that helps alleviate stress promotes relaxation and provides an uplifting of your spirit (examples include Wedding Cake)

• Choose high myrcene strains with a hint of blue and herbal, musky, Earthy undertones to help induce a calming and sedative effect (examples include OG Kush and Cherry Pie)

• Choose high pinene strains of weed with green undertones and a pine scent to boost relaxation, treat pain and inflammation, and alleviate stress (examples include Pinetar and Pinewarp)

Other examples of cannabis terpenes include terpinolene and caryophyllene. Terpinolene is rare and is only found in about one in ten strains of weed. It has floral and piney undertones and is ideal for bringing about an uplifting feeling, while caryophyllene has spicy undertones and can help activate the endocannabinoid system to provide powerful anti-inflammatory benefits.

Final Thoughts

Terpenes are compounds in weed and other herbs and plants that give the plant its flavour and aroma.

They work closely with CBD and THC to give each strain of weed its own unique effects on your mind and body.

To choose the best strain of weed for you, consider following your nose! You may choose the terpenes you like by finding different scents and aromas that appease you.