Terpenes are molecules responsible for the taste, smell and even the effects of cannabis: they are the main group of aromatic components of hemp. Knowing what they are is very important to choose among the hemp inflorescences the one that best suits your taste, but also to evaluate the benefits they can provide.

In fact, as we will see, terpenes are substances present in various plants but in the case of cannabis work together to create the relaxing and therapeutic effects we love so much.

What are cannabis terpenes

What are Terpenes?? They are a class of organic compounds found in many plants and are responsible for their characteristic aromas and flavors. When we smell any essential oil we are, in fact, in contact with terpenes.

THE terpenes are polyphenols involved in various biological functions of plants, such as defense against predators and attraction of pollinators: species such as pine or lemon produce their strong aromas to drive away “bad” insects and bring the “good” ones closer and the same happens also for cannabis.

What interests us about terpenes is mainly the pleasantness of the perfume, and in the case of cannabis also the therapeutic effects, as we will see later. In the meantime, let's explore the main hemp terpenes, called primary terpenes:

• Myrcene: is the most common terpene in cannabis and has an earthy, musky aroma that is similar to cloves on the taste buds.
• Limonene: it is the second most common aroma and recalls, hence the name, the scent of mandarin and lemon, with notes of rosemary and juniper.
• Pinene: pinene has a fresh, forest-like flavor and is the primary terpene found in pines and other conifers.
• Linalool: Linalool gives cannabis a floral aroma. It is also found naturally in lavender and geranium.
• Beta-carophyllene: This terpene is responsible for the “spicy” aroma of cannabis.
• Humulene: With an earthy, woody scent, this terpene adds a natural flavor to cannabis.
• Terpineol: this terpene is responsible for the scent of lime and lilac flowers and is also present in our beloved hemp.
• Valencian: the scent of this terpene is similar to that of limonene, with citrus notes.
• Terpinolene: combines the aroma of pine with floral essences.
• Geraniol: Geraniol has a very tobacco-like flavor and helps create the unique aroma of cannabis.
• Ocimene: it has a “tropical” aroma with sweet notes and a herbaceous and woody aftertaste.

Growers produce different strains of cannabis paying particular attention to the combination of terpenes of each plant, creating more or less earthy, spicy, citrusy flavors and so on.

Terpenes properties

What science tells us today is that terpenes have important properties.Not only do they smell good and taste great, but they also perform a wellness function of the organism:

Among the terpenes effects we find:

• Antimicrobial properties
• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Analgesic properties
• Sedative and calming properties
• Anxiolytic properties

As for cannabis, What is the function of terpenes?? Ethan Russo's experimental studies show that terpenes play a role in limiting the unwanted effects of THC and thus increasing the benefits of medical cannabis. Other ongoing research suggests that cannabis terpenes may increase levels of dopamine and serotonin.

Second scientific publications The D-limonene, present in large quantities in cannabis, is a real goldmine of beneficial effects: antioxidant, anti-diabetic, cardioprotective, anticancer, gastroprotective and more.

According to others studies, food terpenes present in large quantities in cannabis such as myrcene show promising properties. Myrcene, in animal studies, is related to analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.

According to another study, finally, the terpenes present in cannabis increase its effects, especially when the plant is used in aromatherapy. The so-called "entourage effect" causes terpenes and cannabinoids to work synergistically, supporting each other in their positive health effects.

FAQ

• Terpenes, where are they found?

Terpenes are found in many plants in nature and are the main component of essential oils. Terpenes are also present in large quantities in cannabis and contribute to its exceptional scent, unlike any other.

• What is the difference between terpenes and terpenoids?

Terpenes are the naturally occurring components of hemp while terpenoids, although a “subclass”, are terpenes chemically modified during the processing of cannabis.

• What are CBD terpenes?

Just because a cannabis strain lacks THC does not mean it lacks terpenes, on the contrary! Our selection of full CBD buds is rich in aromas thanks to terpenes, which guarantee the full taste and consolidate the therapeutic effects of CBD.

• What is the terpene profile of cannabis?

The terpene profile of cannabis refers to the set of terpenes present in the plant and determines the taste and effects of the buds that can be extracted. For example, a strain with a high myrcene content may have more relaxing effects, while one with more limonene may be more stimulating and euphoric. This means that the terpene profile can influence how a specific cannabis strain is perceived and used medicinally or recreationally.