The King's Guide: Touching Base on Terpenes

What are Terpenes/Terps?

Terpenes are organic chemical compounds found in the trichomes of cannabis flower. Trichomes are resinous, hair-like glands that contain therapeutic cannabinoids like THC, and CBN, as well as flavonoids and terpenes. While there are tens of thousands of known terpenes, cannabis produces around 100 terpenes that vary by strain. 

Terpenes are used by plants as a biological mechanism to ward off predators or attract pollinators. Different growing conditions like weather, light, and humidity can affect the production of terpenes. A high concentration of trichomes on a flower strain produces unique and potent smells and flavors that dabbers can enjoy.

The Difference Between Terpenes And Terpenoids

People searching “what are terpenes,” “cannabis terpenes,” and “marijuana terpenes” may run into two terms, terpenes and terpenoids, which seem like they might mean the same thing. Terpenes and terpenoids are both secreted in trichomes and produce fragrant aromas, but terpenoids are more chemically complex. 

Terpenoids undergo a transformation during the curing and drying process. Many people believe that terpenoids are precursors to terpenes, which is why the terms have been used interchangeably. Modern research is discovering that terpenes and terpenoids can have a synergistic effect on cannabinoid activity. This means that terpenes may amplify or reduce certain effects for users.

A Few Terpenes Listed:

Terpenes can alter the effects of cannabinoids like THC and CBD by either enhancing the potent effects or dampening some negative effects. Some terpenes exhibit anti-anxiety characteristics, which can reduce the negative side effects of THC like paranoia and anxiety. Here’s a brief list of terpenes that are commonly found in cannabis. 

       

Limonene:

Limonene’s scent is hard to miss. Aromas of lemons, oranges, and other citrus varieties appear in cannabis strains that have the limonene terpene. Because of its pleasant citrus scent, limonene is used in multiple industrial cleaning products and fragrances. Limonene has been shown to have antibacterial, anti fungal, and anti-anxiety properties.

Pinene:

Pinene is the most commonly found terpene in plants including pine needles, rosemary, dill, and basil. Pinene has been shown to curb THC-induced short-term memory loss, increase concentration, as well as open up the lung airways. Pinene has been used as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent in many cultures throughout history.

Myrcene:

Myrcene features a strong earthy and fruity scent that can be found in mangoes, thyme, lemongrass, and hops. Myrcene is also the most common terpene found across cannabis strains. In terms of benefits, myrcene is a known anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibiotic, and sedative compound.

Linalool:

Linalool has fragrant floral and spicy scents, which can be found in coriander and lavender. Linalool has significant anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and immune-boosting effects. Other studies have shown that linalool can be an aid in pain relief.

Caryophyllene:

Expect notes of pepper and spice when dealing with a high-caryophyllene marijuana strain. Found in black pepper, cloves, oregano, and cinnamon, caryophyllene has multiple therapeutic effects. Caryophyllene can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as having anti-inflammatory effects.

Flavonoids & Terpenes

Unlike terpenes and terpenoids, flavonoids give plants like fruit and vegetables their vibrant colors. In cannabis flower, flavonoids produce an array of colors including red, blue, purple, and more. Of the over 6,000 different types of flavonoids, 20 of them have been found in cannabis. Many of these flavonoids have been known to have antioxidant, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory characteristics. More research needs to be done to determine their specific interaction with cannabinoids and terpenes in the human body.

Getting the most out of your Terpenes

Unlike terpenes and terpenoids, flavonoids give plants like fruit and vegetables their vibrant colors. In cannabis flower, flavonoids produce an array of colors including red, blue, purple, and more. Of the over 6,000 different types of flavonoids, 20 of them have been found in cannabis. Many of these flavonoids have been known to have antioxidant, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory characteristics. More research needs to be done to determine their specific interaction with cannabinoids and terpenes in the human body.

High-terpene full-spectrum extracts (HTFSE) may be a mouthful of an acronym, but provide more than enough terpenes for an out-of-this-world flavor. Terp sugar, also referred to as terp sauce, is a mixture of THCa crystals and cannabis-derived terpenes. Terp sauce is a type of HTFSE that has THCa levels 90% and above and up to 20% terpenes. To get the most out of terpenes when dabbing, use terp pearls paired with a directional airflow cap to evenly heat bangers and get a smoother and more flavorful draw. With so many potential benefits, terpenes are one of the most sought-after chemical compounds found in cannabis. Terpenes can be found in different concentrations across many cannabis strains and extracts. Some extracts may contain fewer terpenes than others. While terpenes exhibit many potential health benefits, there is still more to be uncovered in creating strains that target certain disorders.