If you’ve ever wondered why different strains of marijuana have such different effects, the answer lies in the terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic oils secreted from the same glands of the cannabis plant responsible for the production of THC and CBD. Each terpene has its own unique flavor and aroma, and they all work together to create unique effects.
How do terpenes affect the way you feel?
Terpenes are the fragrant oils that give marijuana its distinctive and diverse range of smells. But these molecules don’t just make weed smell good—they also have a range of therapeutic qualities that can affect the body in different ways.
Terpenes work together with other cannabinoids, such as THC or CBD to provide therapeutic benefits, also known as the entourage effect. Scientists are only beginning to understand all the ways they can benefit us. Terpenes may provide relief from stress, anxiety, and depression. They may also promote better sleep, boost the immune system, and aid in relaxation.
Here’s a look at some of the most common terpenes in cannabis.
1. Myrcene
Myrcene is the most common terpene in the cannabis plant. It’s responsible for the plant’s musky, earthy scent.
Myrcene in cannabis is known for its therapeutic qualities. It has sedative and anti-inflammatory effects, and it might help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Myrcene is also thought to promote better sleep and boost the immune system.
Cannabis strains high in Myrcene include OG Kush, Jillybean, Blue Dream, Purple Urkle, Grape Ape, Granddaddy Purple, Tangie, and Harlequin.
2. Limonene
Limonene is a terpene that is responsible for the citrusy smell of cannabis. It has anti-inflammatory and antidepressant properties and can be used to treat anxiety and stress. Limonene also boosts the immune system and some think it helps fight cancer. Limonene can be consumed in oil form, and it is also used in aromatherapy.
Wedding Cake, Banana OG, Purple Hindu Kush, Strawberry Banana, Tahoe OG, and White Fire OG strains have limonene-dominant terpene profiles.
3. Linalool
Linalool is a terpene found in many plants, including lavender and cannabis. It has a floral scent and is known for it’s calming properties. Linalool is responsible for the sedative effects of many cannabis strains. Cannabis strains high in linalool are Granddaddy Purple, Do Si Dos, Lavender, and Kosher Kush. They are frequently recommended for people suffering from stress and anxiety.
4. Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is a fragrant terpene found in many plants, including cannabis. It has a spicy, woody aroma and is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Caryophyllene is also believed to have some psychoactive effects. GSC, Bubba Kush, and Sour Diesel are some of the cannabis strains with high levels of beta caryophyllene.
5. Alpha-pinene
Alpha-pinene is a terpene found in many plants, including conifers and cannabis. It has a strong pine scent and is known for its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties. Alpha-pinene-rich cannabis strains include Auto Blackberry Kush, Night Queen, Auto Lemon Kix, Frisian Dew, and Mokum’s Tulip.
6. Beta-pinene
Beta-pinene is a terpene that is found in marijuana plants. It has a piney, woodsy smell and is responsible for the “green” smell of fresh cannabis. Beta-pinene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can be used to treat asthma and other respiratory conditions. ACDC, Durban Poison, and OG Kush are among the strains that contain Beta-Pinene.
7. Eucalyptol
Eucalyptol is a terpene that is found in many different plants, but it is best known for its presence in eucalyptus oil. Eucalyptol has a minty, refreshing smell and is often used to flavor dental products and mouthwash. It may also have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Girl Scout Cookies, Super Silver Haze, Dutch Treat, London Pound Cake, Ace of Spades, Bubba Kush, Headband, and GMO Cookies are cannabis strains with high eucalyptol concentrations.
8. Humulene
Humulene is a terpene found in cannabis and other plants. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and is often used to treat pain. Humulene has been shown in preliminary research to be anti-proliferative, which means it prevents cancer cells from growing. It also demonstrated effective appetite suppression, making it a possible effective weight-loss tool.
GSC (aka Girl Scout Cookies), Headband, White Widow, Pink Kush, OG Kush, and Bubba Kush are some cannabis strains with high levels of humulene.
9. Valencene
This natural compound that is found in the essential oils of certain plants has a variety of therapeutic benefits and has been used extensively in aromatherapy and natural healing practices for centuries. Valencene may provide relief from stress, anxiety, and depression. It may also promote better sleep and boost the immune system. Cannabis strains high in valencene include Tangie, Agent Orange, ACDC, Sour Diesel, Clementine, Jillybean, and Gushers
10. Terpineol
Terpineol is a natural organic compound that is found in the essential oils of various plants. It has a sweet, floral scent and is used in perfumes, cosmetics, and other consumer products. Terpineol has an anise and mint flavor. Terpineol has a pleasant scent that is similar to lilac and is widely used in perfumes, cosmetics, and flavors.
Terpineol has many beneficial properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects. Jack Herer, White Widow, GSCor Girl Scout Cookies, and OG Kush are among the strains that frequently test high in terpineol.
How to choose the right strain of marijuana based on their terpene profile
When it comes to cannabis, the most important thing is to choose the right strain. Different strains can have different effects, and it’s important to find one that’s right for you. But how do you know which strain is right for you? One way to figure it out is by looking at the terpenes found in each strain and understanding what they do.
As you can see, terpenes are important to the overall experience of marijuana. By understanding their effects, you can use them to enhance your experience with different strains of cannabis. Whether you’re trying to find the perfect strain to help with relaxation, something to make you more creative, or one that’ll give you energy, there’s a strain that’ll work for you.
