At MJ Healing Herbs, we are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality of cannabis possible.
Part of this commitment involves educating our customers about the various compounds that make up cannabis and how those compounds can provide different benefits.
In this blog post, we will focus on one particular group of cannabis compounds known as terpenes. Keep reading to learn all about cannabis terpenes and how they can improve your experience with cannabis!
What are terpenes?
To put it simply, terpenes are aromatic compounds that are responsible for the unique smell and taste of different plants.
In the world of cannabis, there are hundreds of different types of terpenes that can be found in various strains of the plant.
Here are some of the common terpenes that you might find in your cannabis and the flavors and aromas associated with them:
- Myrcene: earthy, musky, clove-like
- Limonene: citrusy, tangy, orange-like
- Pinene: piney, woodsy, like a Christmas tree
- Caryophyllene: peppery, spicy, cloves
- Linalool: floral, lavender
Terpenes are produced in the trichomes of the cannabis plant, which are the tiny, hairlike structures that cover the plant’s surface.
The cannabinoids found in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, are also produced in the trichomes.
What effects do terpenes have?
In addition to their role in providing cannabis with its unique smell and taste, terpenes may also offer a variety of health benefits.
For example, studies have shown that myrcene can act as a sedative, while pinene may improve cognitive function and linalool may provide relief from anxiety.
Caryophyllene, meanwhile, has been shown to interact with the endocannabinoid system in a way that could potentially provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
It’s important to note that terpenes are not just found in cannabis.
They can also be found in other plants, such as lemons, limes, oranges, and peppercorns.
What does this mean for you?
Now that you know a little bit more about terpenes, you can begin to understand why different strains of cannabis smell and taste the way they do.
You can also begin to understand how different terpenes might provide different benefits.
If you’re looking for a particular effect from your cannabis, such as relaxation or increased focus, be sure to ask your budtender about strains that are high in the specific terpene you’re interested in.
How do terpenes affect the cannabis experience?
While terpenes themselves do not produce any sort of psychoactive effect, they can influence the effects of THC and CBD. For example, some terpenes have been shown to increase feelings of relaxation while others may provide a boost of energy.
The way that terpenes affect the cannabis experience is still being studied, but it’s thought that they work together with cannabinoids to produce what is known as the entourage effect.
This theory suggests that the various compounds found in cannabis work together to provide a more potent effect than any one of those compounds could produce on its own.
As you can see, there is a lot to learn about cannabis terpenes! At MJ Healing Herbs, we are always here to answer any questions that you may have about this topic or any other topic related to cannabis.
We would be happy to help you select a strain based on your desired effects or preferred aroma and flavor. Shop our cannabis flower here and see our wide selection of strains, each with its own unique terpene profile!
We are a full-service dispensary and also offer home delivery in Augusta, Maine.
We’re the #1 cannabis caregiver storefront in Augusta.
Stop by our store today to browse our selection of high-quality cannabis strains or shop online now.