Have you ever wondered why some strains of weed smell differently than others? It’s because of the terpenes. Terpenes are naturally occurring aromatic compounds found in plants, including cannabis. In this article, we will delve into the world of terpenes in weed and explore how they can affect your high.
We will discuss what terpenes are, where they come from, and their role in the cannabis experience. Additionally, we’ll explore any potential negative side effects of terpenes and their potential medical uses.
What Are Terpenes and Where Do They Come From?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in plants, including cannabis. They are primarily produced in the trichomes and are responsible for the unique scents and flavors of different weed strains. With over 100 different terpenes identified in weed, each strain offers its distinct combination of aromas and potential effects.
What Do Terpenes Do?
Terpenes play a significant role in the entourage effect. They interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to produce a wide range of effects. Terpenes can enhance or modify the effects of cannabinoids, contributing to the overall cannabis experience. Additionally, terpenes have their own individual properties that can influence mood, relaxation, and overall well-being.
What Is the Entourage Effect?
When you consume weed, you’re not only getting THC and CBD, but also terpenes. These compounds interact with each other, potentially altering your high. This interaction can affect the effectiveness of cannabinoids like THC and CBD and impact how you experience the cannabis high.
Each terpene has unique properties and effects, such as uplifting or relaxing qualities. By working in synergy with cannabinoids, terpenes enhance the entourage effect, creating a more comprehensive and nuanced cannabis experience.
Do Terpenes Affect Your High?
Yes, terpenes can influence your high. While they don’t have the same impact as cannabinoids, they interact with them. This interaction can give the high a slightly different feeling. For example, linalool is a terpene found in lavender that is also common in cannabis. Recent studies show that linalool has sedative and calming properties, explaining why lavender is often used in therapeutic oils.
Although there is no exact answer on how terpenes affect the cannabis high, early scientific research suggests that they may play a bigger role than previously thought.
What Is the Difference Between Cannabinoids and Terpenes?
Cannabinoids like THC and CBD directly interact with your endocannabinoid system and are responsible for the psychoactive effects of weed. Terpenes, on the other hand, are aromatic compounds that give weed its unique taste and smell profile.
While cannabinoids are the main compounds associated with getting high, research is showing that terpenes also play a role. Different smells can impact the overall sensory experience of getting high, and terpenes are responsible for those smells.
What Are the Main Terpenes Found in Cannabis?
| Name | Aroma | Possible Effects | Also Found In | Strains That Contain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Myrcene | Earthy, musky, similar to cloves | Sedative, anti-inflammatory, pain relief | Mango, lemongrass, thyme, hops | – Mango Kush – White Widow |
| Limonene | Citrusy | Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, stress reduction | Citrus fruits, rosemary, juniper | – Super Lemon Haze – Durban Poison |
| Linalool | Spicy, floral | Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiety relief | Lavender, mint, cinnamon, coriander | – Amnesia Haze – Granddaddy Purple |
| Caryophyllene | Spicy, peppery | Anti-inflammatory, analgesic | Black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, basil | – Girl Scout Cookies – Super Silver Haze |
| Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene | Pine-like, herbal | Anti-inflammatory | Pine trees, rosemary, orange peels, basil | – Jack Herer – Blue Dream |
| Alpha-bisabolol | Floral | Enhances absorption of other compounds, anti-bacterial, antioxidant | Chamomile, candeia tree | – Ice Cream Cake – Do Si Dos |
| Eucalyptol | Minty, refreshing | Pain relief, anti-bacterial | Eucalyptus, camphor, tea tree | – Girl Scout Cookies – Bubba Kush |
| Trans-nerolidol | Floral, citrus, apple, woody | Antiparasitic, antioxidant, antifungal, anticancer, antimicrobial | Jasmine, lemongrass, tea tree | – GG4 – Skywalker OG |
| Humulene | Earthy, woody, spicy | Anti-inflammatory, appetite suppressant, antibacterial | Hops, ginseng, sage, cloves | – Sour Diesel – White Widow |
| Delta 3 Carene | Sweet, earthy, pine, cedar, citrus | Aids in healing bones, promotes bone growth, improves cognitive function | Rosemary, basil, bell peppers, cedar | – AK47 – OG Kush |
| Camphene | Sweet, earthy, pine, musk | Antioxidant, lowers cholesterol and triglycerides | Nutmeg, ginger, rosemary, valerian, sage | – Bruce Banner – Sweet Tooth |
| Borneol | Refreshing, minty, herbal | Insect repellent, used in traditional medicine, potential cancer treatment | Rosemary, mint, camphor | – Zkittlez – GMO Cookies |
| Terpineol | Sweet, floral, lilac, apple blossom, pine | Relaxing, anti-depressant, neuroprotective, reduces anxiety | Pine trees, lilac, lime blossoms | – Slurricane – Purple Punch |
| Valencene | Sweet, citrusy, orange, grapefruit | Insect repellent, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, potential cancer treatment | Valencia oranges, grapefruits | – G13 Haze – Pineapple Kush |
Do Terpenes Have Any Negative Side Effects?
Terpenes are generally safe as they are naturally occurring compounds. However, they can cause reactions or irritation if you are allergic to them. If you are consuming terpene extracts, make sure to read the ingredients carefully, as some products may contain other processed chemicals that could be harmful.
Do Terpenes Have Any Medical Uses?
Although more research is needed, terpenes show promise in various medical applications.
Mood: Some terpenes, like limonene and linalool, have been associated with uplifting and mood-enhancing effects.
Antiviral: Alpha-pinene and beta-caryophyllene are known for their potential antiviral properties.
Anxiety: Terpenes like linalool and myrcene have shown potential for reducing anxiety symptoms, although individual responses may vary.
Chronic Pain: Some terpenes, such as beta-caryophyllene and terpinolene, may have analgesic properties that could aid in chronic pain management.
Depression: Limonene and beta-caryophyllene have both shown potential for their anti-depressive effects.
Antimicrobial: Terpenes like terpinolene and geraniol have demonstrated antimicrobial activity against various pathogens.
Terpenes FAQs
Are Terpenes Bad for You?
No, terpenes derived from natural sources are generally safe, but individual sensitivities may vary.
Are Terpenes Safe to Vape?
When sourced from reputable and regulated providers, terpenes are generally safe for vaping. However, it’s crucial to follow proper vaping guidelines and use quality products.
Is CBD a Terpene?
No, CBD is not a terpene. It is classified as a cannabinoid.
Why Are Terpenes Important in CBD?
Terpenes play a vital role in the entourage effect, enhancing the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD by interacting synergistically with cannabinoids.
Can Terpenes Reduce Anxiety?
Some terpenes, such as linalool and myrcene, have shown potential for reducing anxiety symptoms. However, individual responses may vary.
Which Terpenes Make You Happy?
According to a recent study on mice, evidence suggests that linalool and pinene, when taken together, provide an antidepressant-like effect. Further research is needed to demonstrate the effectiveness in humans.
Can Terpenes Be Addictive?
No, terpenes themselves are not addictive substances. The misconception that they can be addictive may stem from other ingredients, such as cannabinoids, often found in the same products.
Conclusion
In conclusion, terpenes in weed are responsible for the unique smell and flavor profiles found in different strains. While they don’t directly impact the high from consuming weed, terpenes can interact with cannabinoids and exhibit their own therapeutic effects. From influencing mood and relaxation to potentially offering anxiolytic, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties, terpenes showcase a range of possibilities. However, further research is necessary to fully understand their mechanisms of action.
