Have you ever taken a walk through the forest and smelled a mix of pine, mustiness and sweetness? That comes from terpenes. They’re what give cannabis its unique and distinctive odor. Terpenes are found all throughout nature and the cannabis plant has over 150 different types. The female cannabis plant is covered in a sticky resin produced by trichomes where the terpenes are produced.
These aromatic compounds work together to give the plant an identifiable scent profile and flavor. Terpenes help us recognize certain strains of weed and other numerous types of vegetation. They help aid in the protection and growth of the plant against harmful external factors. These compounds send information about the plant’s surrounding environment to support its immune system.
So, terpenes smell good, and they help protect the plant, but do they get you high? One of the first facts you learn about cannabis is strain type, sativa or indica. Sativa is known for a more energetic high as opposed to Indica’s relaxing high. As more studies have been done, research is showing that other compounds of the plant assist in your reaction or high. The effect of the compounds, both cannabinoids and terpenes, when taken together rather than apart produces a better effect known as “the entourage effect”. It is suggested that not only do terpenes give cannabis flower its smell but have therapeutic properties to elevate the effects on the body.
The medicinal properties of terpenes are still being researched but have been associated with the following benefits: anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, anticancer, and anti-microbial. There are many different types of terpenes that can all provide their own benefits. Some of the most common terpenes found in marijuana are limonene, pinene, myrcene.
Limonene is one of the primary terpenes in cannabis and is known for its citrusy aroma and spicy notes. This creates a more uplifting experience and can be found in strains like Super Sour Diesel, MAC and Quantum Kush. Many different plants produce limonene in nature to fight against mold which is why it is found in multiple household cleaning products.
Pinene is a very common terpene found throughout all of nature and is easily identified because of its distinguishable pine smell. Pinene is earthy and musty and found in plants like basil, rosemary, and you guessed it, pine needles. If you take a walk through the forest and get a burst of energy, it’s probably because this terpene is naturally energy boosting and has its own unique medicinal benefits. Pinene acts as a bronchodilator which helps expand airways for better breathing. It can also be used for anti-inflammatory and pain relief. You’ll find it in strains like Pineapple OG, Cherry Gelato and Jenny Kush.
If you’re looking for a relaxing or sedative high, you should try finding a weed strain that has myrcene in it. There is a plethora of myrcene terpene produced in nature, including plants like hops and mangos. The medicinal benefits of myrcene include a relaxing effect which is why you may feel more relaxed when you drink a beer.
