What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are natural compounds in cannabis that give each strain its unique aroma and flavor. Also found in other plants, terpenes help attract pollinators and protect against pests. In cannabis, they interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, influencing the strain's effects.
This interaction, called the entourage effect, can enhance relaxation, focus, or energy, depending on the terpene profile.
The Terpenes Entourage Effect
The terpenes entourage effect means that cannabinoids, terpenes, and other cannabis compounds work together to enhance the plant’s effects. Instead of acting alone, they interact to influence how cannabis impacts the body and mind.
While THC and CBD are the most well-known cannabinoids, cannabis also contains over 100 others, like CBN and CBG, along with 200+ unique terpenes. Together, they can provide benefits such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, and anti-inflammatory effects. This is why full-spectrum cannabis products may offer a more balanced experience than isolated cannabinoids.
What Do Terpenes Do?
Terpenes help shape your cannabis experience by influencing its effects. While cannabinoids like THC and CBD create the foundation, terpenes steer the overall sensation.
The common idea that indica strains are always sedating and sativas are always energizing is overly simplistic. Research shows that terpenes play a bigger role in how a strain feels. For example, some sativa strains contain myrcene, a terpene known for its relaxing effects, while certain indica strains have high levels of limonene, which can be uplifting and energizing.
Most Common Terpenes
What are the most common cannabis terpenes? Cannabis contains a variety of terpenes, each contributing to its unique aroma, flavor, and effects. Understanding these terpenes can help users choose strains that best fit their desired experience.
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Limonene: Citrusy aroma, uplifting and energizing effects, anti-anxiety and mood-enhancing properties.
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Myrcene: Earthy, musky aroma, sedative effects, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
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ß Caryophyllene: Spicy, peppery aroma, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, may also have mood-stabilizing effects.
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Pinene: Piney aroma, anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator properties, may also have memory-enhancing effects.
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Linalool: Floral aroma, anti-anxiety and sedative effects, may also have anti-epileptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
