Terpenes, what’s that ?
This is an intro to terpenes and how they affect modern cannabis we smoke today.
Terpenes are what gives the cannabis plant its taste, flavour and smell. Terpenes or “terps are part of what produces THC and can also help the effect that the strain has. They can be found in all plants, foods, flowers and even a select few animals. There are over 200 terpenes 150 of which are found in the cannabis plant. There are 10 primary and 20 secondary. The ten primary ones are Alpha-humulene, Limonene, Alpha- Pinene, Myrcene, Linalool, Beta-Caryophyllene,Terpinolene, Ocimene, Eucalyptol and Geraniol. Many things can affect terpene development like type of soil,age of the plant, weather and climate. They also help protect the plant by acting as a sunblock, as well as help protect the plant from bacteria and pests. Terpenes, THC and CBD work together harmoniously this is known as the entourage effect. Some terpenes help cannabinoids move into our bloodstream faster. Let’s talk about some of these primary terpenes, what they do and how they can help us choose the strains that are right for us.
Delta 3 Carene:
This terpene is found in a lot of other foods and plants like rosemary, basil, bell peppers and in most conifer trees. Delta 3 Carene has a smell like cedar and pepper but tastes slightly sour like lemons. Carene is found mostly in sativa strains. It is known for its medicinal uses such as helping to repair bones or boost bone healing. This has shown to be amazing for people who suffer from fibromyalgia and arthritis. Delta 3 Carene is also a very potent anti-inflammatory especially in acute cases. Studies show when Carene is combated with the cannabinoid CBD it can stop memory loss. Some strains that you can find Delta 3 Carene in are Skunk #1, Super Silver Haze and Super Lemon Haze.
Terpineol:
Terpineol has been found in over 150 plants. Some of these plants include lilacs, limes, Eucalyptus sap and pine trees. This could be way Terpineol is used in a wide variety of perfumes, foods and skin care products.This terpene is found when Linalool, pinene and humulene are found in high numbers. Known for its pain relief, anti-anxiety and seizure reduction. As well as help program the death of cancerous cells. Terpineol can be found in strains like Girl Scout Cookies, OG Kush, Fire Og, and White Widow.
Geraniol:
This lesser known terpene comes from the geranium plant. Geraniol has a sweet-fruity, floral smell and flavour.This terpene is found in other plants such as rose, lemon grass, blue and blackberrys even carrots and honey. Honey bees produce Geraniol as a territorial mechanism and to make honey. One medical use for it is it reduces tumor properties in cancer cells and also preventing the growth of colon cancer. Geraniol can be found in Harlequin, Lemon OG, Agent Orange nd Tahoe OG.
Myrcene:
Myrcene is the most common terpene in cannabis today. It can also be found in hops, lemongrass and mango. We can noticed that most indica strains are over .5% myrcene. Sativa on the other hand usually has under .5% Myrcene. This suggests myrcene has very relaxing effects. Myrcene has been used medically in the past as a sleep aid and muscle relaxant. This terp can be found in strains like OG Kush, AK-47, Grand Daddy Purple and White Widow.
https://www.thegrowthop.com/cannabis-health/why-are-cannabis-terpenes-so-very-important
https://compassionconcentrates.com/what-is-delta-3-carene/
https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ccb5555c563782c2884a3b9/know-your-cannabis-terpenes-terpineol
https://www.leafly.com/news/science-tech/what-is-geraniol-marijuana-terpene
https://www.leafly.com/news/science-tech/myrcene-terpene