Cannabis strains have a range of fragrance and flavors, from musky and earthy to floral and sweet to citrusy or spicy.
Terpenes are the naturally occurring compounds responsible for these unique aromas. While terpenes are found throughout the entire cannabis plant, they are primarily concentrated in the trichomes—fine, hairlike growths that cover the plant’s foliage and flowers.
In addition to their effect on the senses, terpenes offer therapeutic benefits, deter pests, attract pollinators and may even synergize with cannabinoids in producing psychoactive effects.
Given how important fragrance and flavor are to consumer preference, understanding terpenes is crucial to customizing the cannabis experience.
Terpene types and profiles
There are more than 150 varieties of terpenes.[1] However, most are present only in trace amounts. The more prominent terpenes give cannabis strains their signature scent profiles.
Terpenes are classified into two categories based on the length and structure of their carbon chain: monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes.[2]
Myrcene is the most important monoterpene in cannabis due its effect on consumers. Strains high in myrcene (i.e., more than 0.5%) have a “couch lock” effect. Those with lower levels produce a more energetic high. Myrcene also offers antipsychotic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, sedative and anticancerogenic properties.[3] Other prominent monoterpenes include α-pinene, limonene and linalool.
Of the sesquiterpenes, β-caryophyllene is the most important, as it is the only terpene known to selectively bind to the body’s cannabinoid type-2 (CB2) receptor. A spicy terpene, it provides a slew of benefits, including antibacterial, antifungal, analgesic, gastroprotective and antioxidant effects.[4]
Here are common terpenes, their aromas and effects:
Terpene
Terpene
Terpene
Myrcene
Earthy, musky, fruity
Relaxation, sedation
Limonene
Citrusy, lemony, orangey
Stimulatory, stress relief
Caryophyllene
Spicy, peppery, woody
Anti-inflammatory, pain relief
Linalool
Floral, lavender, sweet
Anxiety relief, sedation
Pinene
Piney, fresh, earthy
Alertness, memory enhancement
Humulene
Earthy, woody, spicy
Anti-inflammatory, appetite suppressant
Terpinolene
Piney, floral, herbal
Stimulatory, antibacterial
Ocimene
Sweet, herbal, woody
Antiviral, decongesant
It is also worth noting that, due to the amount of natural sunlight, growing cannabis outdoors often results in higher terpene levels, as illustrated in the following graph:[5]
Terpenes vs cannabinoids
While terpenes offer a range of biological and pharmacological benefits, there is as yet no scientific evidence that they contribute to any medicinal properties. Cannabinoids provide the primary psychoactive and medicinal components of cannabis.
That said, scientists theorize that combining phytocannabinoids and terpenes may result in an “entourage effect,” in which they complement or synergize with each other.[6] This may explain why two different strains with the same THC levels have different effects.
Although much focus is placed on THC when selecting a cannabis strain, but it is important not to overlook a strain’s terpene profile in achieving the desired result.
Emerald Harvest Team
[1] https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plantsci.2019.03.022
[3] https://doi.org/10.1159/000509733
[4] Ibid.
[5] https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28020833
[6] https://doi.org/10.4172/2329-6836.1000181
