Marijuana Terpenes: what they are, how many are and what their Function?

Welcome everyone to this new chapter of our blog about what they are, what they do and what are the main terpenes of Cannabis! After seeing What are trichomes in Cannabis and how to increase them, buckle up for this new article from Annibale Seedshop on one of the most important elements for a weed smoker!

Weed Terpenes Introduction

Terpenes are organic compounds that occur in nature and impart a wide range of scents and flavors to organisms. In the flora, these compounds are produced by a variety of plants, including cannabis. In this article, we will explore the nature of terpenes, their importance in cannabis, and the characteristics of the ten most common ones found in this fascinating plant.

Cannabis Terpenes in Nature

Terpenes are found throughout the plant kingdom and play a variety of biological roles. For example, they act as insect repellent agents, help repel predators, and attract natural predators of insect pests. Additionally, terpene is responsible for the distinctive scents and flavors of many plants.

Examples of Plants that Produce Terpenes

Before exploring the importance of terpene in cannabis, it is interesting to mention some examples of plants that produce terpenes. For example, eucalyptus is known for its cineole content, a terpene that imparts a fresh, mentholated aroma to its leaves.

Similarly, lavender contains linalool, a terpene that gives the plant its distinctive scent and may have calming properties.

The Importance of Terpenes in Cannabis plants

In cannabis, these small elements play a vital role in determining the flavor and aroma profile of a specific strain. In addition to the sensory aspect, terpene can also interact with other chemicals found in the plant, such as cannabinoids, to produce distinct therapeutic effects.

This phenomenon is known as the entourage effect, where different compounds in cannabis work together to produce synergistic results.

The 10 Most Common Terpenes in Weed Strains:

There are a number of terpenes found in cannabis, but we will focus on the ten most common terpenes and the cannabis strains that produce them in significant quantities.

• Myrcene: Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis and can be found in strains such as White Widow, Blueberry and OG Kush. It has an earthy and spicy aroma and is associated with relaxing and sedative effects.
• Limonene: Limonene is known for its citrus aroma and is found in strains such as Lemon Haze, Super Lemon Haze, and Tangie. It has energizing properties and is often associated with positive humoral effects.
• Pinene: Pinene has a piney aroma and can be found in strains such as Jack Herer, Blue Dream and Bubba Kush. It is associated with mental clarity effects and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Linalool: Linalool is present in strains such as Lavender, LA Confidential and Purple Kush. It has a floral and sweet aroma and is known for its calming and relaxing properties.
• Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene is a spicy terpene found in strains like Sour Diesel, Girl Scout Cookies, and OG Kush. It is associated with relaxing effects and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Terpinolene: Terpinolene can be found in strains such as Jack Herer, Golden Goat and Ghost Train Haze. It has a fresh, spicy aroma and is known for its sedative and calming properties.
• Humulene: Humulene is a terpene found in strains like Headband, Skywalker OG, and Candyland. It has an earthy aroma and may have anti-inflammatory and appetite suppressant properties.
• Ocimene: Ocimene can be found in varieties such as Strawberry Cough, Golden Goat, and Sour Diesel. It has a sweet and floral aroma and is associated with energizing effects.
• Terpineol: Terpineol is present in strains such as White Widow, Jack Herer and OG Kush. It has a floral and sweet aroma and is known for its calming and sedative properties.
• Geraniol: Geraniol is a terpene found in strains like Amnesia Haze, Wedding Cake, and Gelato. It has a floral aroma and is known for its sleep-supporting and relaxing properties.

Conclusions…

Terpene are organic compounds that occur in nature and give plants their characteristic aromas and flavors. In cannabis, terpenes play an important role in determining the flavor and aroma profile of a specific strain, as well as interacting with other compounds to produce distinct therapeutic effects.

Knowing terpenes and their characteristics can help cannabis enthusiasts choose the strains that best suit their preferences and medicinal needs.

And this article on The 10 main terpenes of Cannabis ends here, hoping to have been of help to you, see you in the next article!

Greetings from the Annibale Seedshop Team!

Davide V, CEO, Founder & Geneticist