Terpenes are the organic compounds found in cannabis (and other natural plants, fruits, etc.) which are responsible for three major factors:

- Scent/Aroma Varying from dank and pungent to vanilla and sweet.

- Flavor/Taste Varying from earthy and sharp to sweet, creamy and fruity.

- Effects Varying from Relaxing and promoting relief and recovery to uplifting, freeing from stress, and energizing.

Hundreds of Different Terpenes

Each contains their own characteristics and therapeutic properties. This is why there are so many different strains with varying terpene profiles; it allows for different smells/aromas, flavors/taste, and unique experiences and applications. This is also why people have personal favorite strains and why some strains may be more optimal than others, given a particular situation.

Cannabis Strain Types

Cannabis strains can be split into three categories, Indica, Sativa and Hybrid. These groupings are based on the characteristic traits the plant has, including taste/flavor, smell/aroma, and effects the strain has on the user. Typically, Indica strains are notorious for providing an all-over body relaxation. Sativa strains are known for their energizing, creative euphoria. Aspects like taste, scent, texture, and effects travel way beyond the Indica and Sativa division. The contents of terpenes in a certain strain is what constitutes the strain type.

Let's compare two different strains:

Sour Diesel, a known Sativa strain. It is reported to have a smell that is pungent and gassy. It's effects are classically reported to benefit daytime use with enhanced focus and creativity. Dominant Terpenes: D-Limonene, Myrcene, Beta-Pinene, Alpha-Pinene, and Camphene.

GMO (Garlic, Mushroom, Onion), a known Indica strain. It is certainly distinct in its smell with a dank, spicy, and cheesy aroma. It's effects are quite opposite to Sour Diesel. Reportedly a fantastic aid for sleep and relaxation. Dominant Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Limonene, and Pinene.

What we can note is the different terpenes from each strain. They offer different effects from each other. They also share some of the same terpenes like Myrcene, which is one of the most common found in cannabis. Myrcene is responsible for the pungent gassy aroma that these strains share.

Entourage Effect

Each Terpene has its own characteristics of relief, and work synergistically with other terpenes and cannabinoids like THC and CBD to enhance the entourage effect. The entourage effect is the idea that the various compounds in cannabis work together to produce a greater effect than any one compound could achieve on its own.

What does each terpene do? Here is a list of common terpenes and their reported characteristics:

Pinene- Commonly derived from pine tree resin, offering a refreshing outdoors, earthy aroma. Applications as a remedy include anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial properties, and also a bronchial dilator. Strains ranking high for Pinene: Haze Berry, OG Kush, and Blue Dream.

Humulene– Features a fresh forest, lumber-like scent. Therapeutic applications include suppressing appetite, and anti-inflammatory properties. Strains ranking high in Humulene: Gelato, Atlantis, and Sour Diesel.

Limonene– Aroma can be described as a vibrant citrus that elevates mood, and bears characteristics for relief of anxiety, depression, and aiding in digestion. Strains ranking high in Limonene: Wedding Cake, Quantum Kush,a nd Berry White.

Myrcene– Most common terpene classically known for its overall body relaxation and "couch lock" effects. Works synergistically with other terpenes to enhance absorption, offering heightened euphoria! Aroma is dank and earthy. Strains ranking high in Myrcene: OG Kush, Girl Scout Cooies, and Grape Ape.

Summary

This analogy may change the way you view shopping for cannabis: Separate the flower into two measurements- Total THC and Terpene Profile. The THC% gives you indication of how much gas is in the tank, however the terpene profile will guide you to the destination. Is it to your friends' house for a party or is it to your bed for a great night's sleep?

When choosing a product, keep your desired feeling/effects in mind. You will soon find products that work great for you, and when you do, document the strain type and dominant terpenes that provided you that relief/experience. Green Treez Company is the Number 1 Source of quality cannabis products for relief, wellness, and natural therapy. Shop by effect/feeling!