Terpenes are naturally occurring aromatic compounds. Terpenes occur naturally in many plants, and even some animal species. Terpenes play an integral role in a cannabis plant’s growth andsurvival. Besides producing distinctive aromas, these organic compounds also enrich color and pigmentation in leaves and buds and contribute to the flavor and effects of annabis. There are thousands of known terpenes, but these are the most common found in cannabis.
Terpenes Explained
Limonene – Fruity
Clean, fresh, uplifting citrus-y scents It is found in the rinds of citrus fruits and ginger, and the terpene is also predominant in many cannabis cultivars that have a fruity, fresh bouquet. Effects include elevated mood, antifungal, and anti-anxiety. Commonly found in sativa strains.
Myrcene – Fruity
Myrcene gives cannabis a mildly sweet flavor profile. It is found in mangoes and predominant in hops and lemongrass. Myrcene has antiinflammatory and anti-tumor properties. Promotes relaxation, sleep, and anti-anxiety. Commonly found in indica strains.
Caryophyllene – Spicy
Lends a spicy, peppery bite to some cannabis strains. Caryophyllene is also found in other plants such as rosemary, oregano, and black pepper. It is the only known terpene found in cannabis that can bind to the CB2 receptor in the endocannabinoid system caryophyllene is sometimes called a cannabinoid. symptoms in diverse conditions such as colitis, anxiety and depression, liver fibrosis, and Alzheimer-like diseases.
Humulene – Floral
Subtle earthy, woody, and spicy notes. Found in hops, black pepper and ginseng. Used very commonly in medical practices. Research has proven it to be an effective antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and an appetite suppressant.
Linalool – Floral
A much-loved terpene found in lavender, basil, and indica strains that’s shown to have extensive therapeutic benefits in aromatherapy, scientific study, and, of course, smoking some good ganja. Exerts sedative effects, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer activity.
Pinene – Earthy
Found in pine trees, rosemary, dill, basil, and parsley. Anti-Inflammatory, bronchodilator (helps open airways), anti-anxiety, and may help with memory loss impairment.
Eucalyptol – Earthy
Found in eucalyptus, bay leaves, cardamom, tea tree, and sage. It has a vibrant fresh scent that is often described as minty and cooling
