Terpenes Weeds: What Are They and How They Work?
Written By
Nishant Garund
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Varuni AgarwalDr. Varuni Agarwal is an esteemed Ayurvedic physician specializing in diagnosing diseases through Ayurvedic dosha imbalances and providing personalized treatments. She focuses on ahara (diet) and vihara (lifestyle) to manage and heal various ailments.
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give all these various cannabis strains their unique smell and flavour. They also determine how it's going to affect you. For example, myrcene is musky, earthy smelling and probably going to give you that relaxed effect, but limonene smells just like citrus and has been said to be a mood elevator. Terpenes may heighten or dampen the effects of THC and CBD, making a more tailored experience. So the next time you pick a strain, think of its terpene profile-it could be as important as the THC levels for your ultimate high.
Table of Contents
Understanding Weed Terpenes
Terpenes are organic compounds naturally produced by plants, including cannabis. These aromatic compounds contribute to the plant's unique flavour, aroma, and potential effects. Cannabinoids like CBD and THC do have some medical and psychoactive effects however, terpenes slightly alter the effects of these compounds.
Types of Terpenes:
There are thousands of different terpenes found in nature, but some of the most common ones in cannabis include:
- Myrcene: It is known for its sedative and muscle-relaxing properties and is found in mangoes and hops.
- Pinene: With anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects, they are found in pine needles and rosemary.
- Limonene: Found in citrus fruits, limonene is associated with uplifting and mood-boosting effects.
- Caryophyllene: It is found in black pepper and cloves, and is thought to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Linalool: It is known for its calming and sedative effects. It’s present in coriander and lavender.
Terpenes Weed Effects: The Entourage Effect
The "entourage effect" suggests that terpenes interact with cannabinoids to create a more complex and potent effect than either compound would have on its own. This means that the combination of terpenes and cannabinoids can produce unique therapeutic benefits including relaxation, pain relief and much more. If you're looking to experience specific effects from your cannabis, understanding terpene profiles can help you choose the right strain or product. For example, if you're seeking relaxation, a strain with high levels of myrcene and linalool might be a good option.
Terpenes in Gummy Bear Weed Edibles
These are aromatic compounds that exist in a vast number of plants as well as cannabis, resulting in distinctive smells and tastes that characterise various strains. Terpenes amplify the entire experience within gummy edibles, making it more enjoyable and flavorful. Some ways that terpenes in gummy bear edibles can help include:
- Flavouring: These terpenes have flavours ranging from fruity to earthy, making the gummies tolerable and palatable.
- Medicinal Properties: Most of them are said to have medicinal properties. Myrcene, for instance, is reportedly a sedative, and limonene is believed to help in lifting mood. All these aspects contribute to the overall effects of the edible.
- Synergistic effects: Terpenes are combined with other cannabinoids such as THC and CBD to produce an "entourage effect" that might lead to superior therapeutic value and an even more balanced experience.
- Modified effects: Due to unique profiles for various strains, edible gummy bears are very particular in helping to choose the right type of effect that is needed or desired—calm, focus, creativity, etc.
Orange Terpenes Weed
Orange Terpenes also known as d-limonene contributes to the entourage effect of mixing terpenes. It is used in the manufacturing and extracting process for edibles, and other products in the CBD and medical marijuana industries. It is used in various jobs, such as cleaning products, paint and coating solvents, flavour and fragrance, parts cleaners, engine degreasers, and tar cleaners. It is also known for its potential mental and physical health benefits due to its anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Weed Terpenes Chart
Terpene Chart: A terpene chart is a great supplement to help medical cannabis patients understand terpenes and their possible effects on the body. Many CBD brands provide detailed terpene profiles, which list the dominant terpenes present in each product. This information, combined with the cannabinoid content, can help users anticipate how the product will affect them. A terpene chart is a valuable resource for both medical cannabis patients and recreational consumers seeking to understand the potential effects of terpenes on the body.
Conclusion
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its unique flavour and aroma, also contributing significantly to the "entourage effect." Working together with cannabinoids to enhance the overall therapeutic benefits of the plant, terpenes just add more to the profile of the cannabis plant. As research continues to explore more around the benefits and uses of terpenes in the plant, it seems promising and there’s more new to learn about the complex interplay of terpenes and cannabinoids.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do terpenes affect the effects of cannabis?
Terpenes are believed to interact with cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, to create a more complex and potent effect. This is known as the "entourage effect."
Q. How can I identify the terpene profile of a cannabis product?
Many CBD brands provide detailed terpene profiles for their products. This information can help understand the potential effects and choose the right product for your needs.
Q. Can I choose a cannabis product based on its terpene profile?
Yes, you can. If you're looking for specific effects, such as relaxation or pain relief, you can select a product with a terpene profile that aligns with your desired outcome.
Q. Are terpenes safe to consume?
Yes, terpenes are generally considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts. However, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.