Leah Welborn
There’s so much to know about cannabis, and The Green Solution is here to demystify our favorite plant for you. In previous weeks, we’ve looked at cannabinoids and the differences between sativa and indica. Today we’ll look at the marvelous world of terpenes and their effect on your cannabis experience.
- What Are Terpenes? Are They Unique to Cannabis?
Simply put, terpenes are aromatic oils secreted by the glands of plants – not just cannabis. If you can smell a plant, it’s because of terpenes. Like most things in nature, terpenes developed for adaptive purposes. Their strong scents lure pollinators and repel predators. A terpene you’re probably quite familiar with is Alpha-Pinene. As the name suggests, it’s the terpene that produces a piney aroma and it’s found in (unsurprisingly) pine needles and rosemary, but also in certain cannabis strains.
- So, Terpenes are Responsible for How My Cannabis Smells and Tastes. Is That All?
Nope, not by a long shot. Think of aromatherapy. There’s a reason why the scent of lavender, for instance, is relaxing. That’s the result of another terpene, called Linalool, which has a calming effect. Though much more scientific research is required, Linalool, like all terpenes, has potential medical value, as well. It’s been used as a treatment for anxiety, insomnia, pain and inflammation, and depression. Like Alpha-Pinene, Linalool is found in certain cannabis strains.
- How Many Types of Terps Are Found in Cannabis?
Great question! Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant. They occur in different ratios in different strains, resulting in the vastly different aromas/tastes and effects that different strains have.
- Now That I Know About Terpenes, What Do I Do?
Reader, you use that knowledge! You now have the power to look way beyond sativa vs. indica and THC and CBD percentages. Now you’re getting into some deep understanding about what to expect from different strains. We’ll talk more about the effects of specific terpenes in future posts, but for now here’s a handy chart from Leafly that gives an overview of six of the terpenes most commonly found in cannabis.
- But Hold On…How Do I Know What Terpenes Are in What Strains?
You shop at The Green Solution, of course! All our flower is lab-tested to determine its potency and terpene profile, which are detailed on each strain’s unique frame, like this one for Blue Dream.
At a glance, we can tell that its dominant terpene is Myrcene, which tells us what kind of effect we can expect.
You can always depend on our highly trained Retail Associates to help you choose the strain that’s best for you.
This concludes your introduction to terpenes. Just remember: The Green Solution is here to provide you quality, lab-tested cannabis products and the information you need to make educated decisions about your purchases. You can trust our experience.