It’s All About The Terps – Why Are They So Important?
It’s one of the most overlooked aspects of cannabis – terpenes. Terpenes provide cannabis with its taste, its aroma, and the personality behind your favorite strains. With a better understanding of terpenes and the role that they play in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the entourage effect, you’ll be better prepared to choose the right product.
In the following article, we’ll take a closer look at terpenes, what they are and what role they play in the entourage effect.
What Are Terpenes and What Do They Do?
Terpenes are an organic compound that provides the flavor and aroma in a variety of different plants and organisms, including the cannabis sativa plant. Not only do terpenes provide different cannabis strains with their unique aroma and flavor, but they also influence the effects of cannabis by interacting with cannabinoids such as CBD and THC.
The growth of terpenes is directly affected by the spectrum and intensity of light that they’re exposed to during the growth stages of the cannabis plants.
When you think of terpenes, think of the citrus, diesel, woody, coffee, pine, spicy, fruity, and tropical taste, and aroma. That’s terpenes hard at work!
How Do Terpenes Interact with The Body?
Not only do terpenes give us the different tastes and aromas we love in cannabis, but they also influence the effects of the cannabis product we’re using. Terpenes support cannabinoids through the entourage effect. It’s because of this interaction that full spectrum cannabis products are in such high demand.
Did you know that terpenes and cannabinoids can either suppress or exaggerate each other’s effects depending on which combination is present and how your body responds to them?
What are some of the most abundant terpenes?
- Myrcene – Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in the cannabis plant and is responsible for that rich and earthy aroma found in hops, lemongrass, basil, and mangos.
- Caryophyllene – Caryophyllene has a strong herbal aroma and can commonly be found in hops, rosemary, and cloves.
- Pinene – As its name suggests, pinene is responsible for the pine aroma found in cannabis plants along with pine trees and other conifers. Pinene is immediately recognizable by its aroma.
- Limonene – Along with cannabis, you’ll also find limonene in citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges. Limonene gives cannabis that sweet citrus smell.
- Terpinolene – You’ll commonly find terpinolene in apples, lilacs, rosemary, and conifers. Terpinolene is responsible for that sweet and herbal aroma found in cannabis flower.
When choosing a cannabis product keep in mind that terpenes can be found beyond cannabis flower. Farms and extractors can capture terpenes and use them in a variety of product types such as edibles, drinks, and tinctures.
It’s All About The Terps – Conclusion
Now you should have a much better idea about what terpenes are and the potential benefits that they may offer. So, the next time you smell cannabis, and it creates desire - give that strain a second look because it could be your body’s way of telling you what you need – It’s all about the Terps!!
If you have any additional questions about terpenes or would like to learn more, don’t hesitate to contact us directly.
