You must have noticed that cannabis strains have different smells and flavors. Some of these flavors include pine, citrus, mint and berry. What you smell is cannabis terpenes, and it plays a crucial role in the cannabis plant.
Cannabis terpenes are the fragrant oils produced in the same glands as THC and CBD. They give cannabis its aromatic flavor. Terpenes give the Lavender strain its floral aroma, Blueberry its berry smell, and the cheese-like aroma to the Cheese strain.
Terpenes form in the cannabis plant for adaptive reasons. They attract agents of pollination and repel predators. Terpenes occur in other plants, fruits, and herbs as well.
There are about 100 different terpenes in the Cannabis plant. These terpenes can be used to produce essential oils for medicine and beauty products. The terpenes can also be made into natural flavors or food additives.
The following are common cannabis terpenes and their benefits;
1. Myrcene
Myrcene has a strong musky and earthy smell. It vaporizes at 167ºC. It has a relaxing and sedating effect on the user.
It can be used to treat insomnia and pain.
It’s also an antioxidant and is a remedy for inflammation. Myrcene is found in strains like White Widow, Special Kush and the Skunk XL. It’s also in thyme, lemongrass and mango.
2. Limonene
It has a citrusy aroma and vaporizes at 176ºC. It elevates the mood and relieves stress. It’s a remedy for depression and anxiety.
It’s also critical in treating cancer and chronic pain. It’s present in O. G Kush, Super Lemon Haze, Jack the Ripper, Durban Poison, and Sour Diesel.
3. Alpha-Pinene
Alpha-Pinene smells like pine and vaporizes at 155ºC. It helps with memory retention and alertness. It also counters some adverse effects of THC.
It’s used in cancer and asthma treatment. It’s also a remedy for pain, ulcers and anxiety. Alpha-Pinene is found in strains like the Strawberry Cough, Blue Dream, and Jack Herer.
4. Cannabis Terpenes: Linalool
Linalool has a floral and spicy smell, and it vaporizes at 198ºC. Its potential effects are sedation and mood enhancement. Linalool strains are critical to treating neurogenerative diseases, depression, anxiety and inflammation.
It’s also a remedy for pain. Linalool is found in strains like Special Kush, Lavender, Amnesia Haze, and LA Confidential. It’s also found in lavender flowers.
5. Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene has a spicy and woody flavor, almost like pepper or cloves. The terpenes vaporize at 130ºC. It has the potential effect to relieve stress and help with relaxation.
The Caryophyllene terpenes are for treating pain and ulcers. They’re also a remedy for anxiety and depression. It’s present in cannabis strains like Skywalker, Super Silver Haze, and Rock Star.
The aroma is also found in cinnamon and black pepper.
More common examples of cannabis terpenes include Humulene, Terpinolene, and Guaiol, among others. Click here to find out more about the cannabis terpenes and their uses.
Wrap-up
Cannabis terpenes contribute to the enjoyment of cannabis. They also affect the high a user gets from using marijuana.
For more information and insights on cannabis, including the best way to smoke it, please explore the other sections of our blog.