Everything You Wanted to Know About Terpenes But Were Afraid to Ask: What Are They, How Do They Work, and More

Terpenes are a hot topic in the cannabis industry right now. But what are they? How do they work? And how do they impact the effects of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids?

In this blog post, we’ll answer all of your questions about terpenes!

We’ll start by explaining what they are and how they’re produced. Then we’ll talk about how they interact with THC and CBD to create different effects. Finally, we’ll give you some tips for choosing the right terpene profile for you!

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about terpenes.

What are terpenes?

Chances are, you’ve heard of terpenes in cannabis before.

But what exactly are they?

Terpenes are a class of organic, naturally occurring compounds that are produced by a wide variety of plants. They’re responsible for the characteristic smells of certain fruits and flowers, and they’re also used in the production of essential oils.

For centuries, people have used essential oils for their medicinal properties. Terpenes play a big role in these effects, and they’re also thought to contribute to the therapeutic effects of cannabis.

There are over 100 different terpenes that have been identified in the cannabis plant. And each one has its own unique smell and set of effects.

In recent years, terpenes have become increasingly popular as a natural way to improve the scent and flavor of food and drink. But beyond their culinary uses, terpenes also have a number of interesting biological properties and medicinal purposes. For example, some terpenes are known to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects.

So next time you’re enjoying the smell of a rose or sipping on a flavored tea, take a moment to appreciate the power of these tiny molecules.

How are terpenes produced?

Terpenes are produced in the same glands that produce cannabinoids like THC and CBD.

These glands are called trichomes, and they’re found on the surface of the cannabis plant’s leaves and flowers.

When the plant is ready to harvest, these trichomes swell up and burst, releasing their contents into the surrounding air. This is what gives freshly harvested cannabis its characteristic smell!

The production of terpenes is a complex process that’s not fully understood. But we do know that it involves the interaction of enzymes, proteins, and other molecules.

Different cannabis strains produce different terpene profiles. So the same strain can smell and taste different depending on when it’s harvested.

How do terpenes interact with THC and CBD?

Now that we know what terpenes are and how they’re produced, let’s talk about how they interact with THC and CBD.

It’s well known that cannabinoids like THC and CBD can have different effects depending on the strain of cannabis. But it’s not always clear why this is the case.

One theory is that the different ratios of THC and CBD in different strains account for the differences in effects. But another theory is that the different terpene profiles of different strains play a big role in these effects.

This theory is supported by the fact that terpenes can interact with THC and CBD to change the way they bind to receptors in the brain. This interaction can either increase or decrease the effects of these cannabinoids.

For example, the terpene myrcene is known to increase the psychoactive effects of THC. So a strain with a high myrcene content is likely to be more potent than a strain with a low myrcene content.

On the other hand, the terpene limonene is thought to decrease the psychoactive effects of THC. So a strain with a high limonene content is likely to be less potent than a strain with a low limonene content.

The same goes for CBD. Some terpenes, like pinene, are thought to increase the therapeutic effects of CBD. So a strain with a high pinene content is likely to be more effective for medical purposes than a strain with a low pinene content.

Other terpenes, like linalool, are thought to decrease the therapeutic effects of CBD. So a strain with a high linalool content is likely to be less effective for medical purposes than a strain with a low linalool content.

In short, the ratio of THC to CBD is not the only thing that determines the effects of a cannabis strain. The terpene profile of the strain is also a big factor.

What do terpenes do?

Terpenes are the most common class of chemical compounds present in essential oils.

But these aromatic compounds do more than just smell good. They also have a number of interesting biological effects.

We know many plants have terpenes. We can look at essential oils, for example, and study what the terpenes in essential oils do.

We also know that some terpenes have medicinal effects. For example, linalool is a terpene present in lavender. This terpene has sedative and anxiolytic effects.

Hemp essential oil, which contains CBD, also has a number of medicinal effects. These effects are thought to be due in part to the terpenes present in the hemp plant.

Cannabis cultivators have long known that terpenes play an important role in the smell and flavor of their cannabis products. But in recent years, scientists have begun to study cannabis compounds like terpenes more closely.

It’s now known that terpenes have a wide range of biological effects. Some of these effects are similar to the effects of THC and CBD. But other effects are completely unique.

Here are some therapeutic benefits, effects, and medicinal benefits that have been linked to terpenes:

Anti-inflammatory
Neuroprotective effects
Analgesic (pain-relieving)
Antidepressant
Anti-anxiety
Stimulant

There are many terpenes available in cannabis, and each has its own unique set of effects. Cannabis consumers should research which terpenes enhance or detract from the effects they are seeking.

How do terpenes interact with the human body?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that are produced by a wide variety of plants. But how do these compounds interact with the human body?

It’s now known that terpenes can interact with the human body in a number of ways. One way is by binding to receptors in the brain. This interaction can either increase or decrease the effects of cannabinoids like THC and CBD.

For example, the terpene myrcene is known to increase the psychoactive effects of THC.

Cannabis terpenes can also interact with the human body in other ways. For example, some terpenes are known to increase blood flow to the brain. This effect can enhance the effects of THC and CBD.

If you’re curious about the specific effects terpenes have on the human body, we recommend doing a deep dive, keeping the therapeutic effects you’re specifically looking for in mind.

Terpenes also affect the way your cannabis smells and tastes.

In addition to their therapeutic effects, terpenes also play a big role in the smell and flavor of cannabis.

Different terpenes produce different aromas. Some terpenes smell like citrus fruits, while others smell earthy or floral.

Cannabis cultivators often choose strains based on the smell and flavor profiles they produce.

If you’re looking for a specific flavor or aroma in your cannabis, research which terpenes are known to produce that flavor or aroma.

You can also experiment with different strains to see which ones you like the best.

Image Source: Leafly

Are terpenes the same as CBD?

No, terpenes are not the same as CBD.

CBD is a cannabinoid, while terpenes are aromatic compounds.

CBD and terpenes both have a wide range of therapeutic effects. But they interact with the human body in different ways.

What about CBD oils?

CBD oils are a popular way to consume CBD.

They are made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and then adding it to a carrier oil, like MCT oil or hemp seed oil.

CBD oils usually contain a small amount of terpenes. Keep in mind that terpenes are important compounds found in the cannabis plant but, they are also found all throughout nature. Terpene is a natural compound with various medical properties and found in both plants and animals.

learn about terpenes in cannabis They are in everything from essential oils to fruits and vegetables.

You can find CBD oils in a variety of flavors, depending on the terpenes that are added to them.

However, that doesn’t mean that terpenes and CBD are the same.

Image Source: Harvard Medical School

Are cannabinoids and terpenes the same thing?

A cannabinoid is a class of chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. There are more than 100 cannabinoids, including THC and CBD.

Terpenes are a class of organic compounds produced by a wide variety of plants.

Cannabinoids, on the other hand, are what give cannabis its effects.

They aren’t the same thing.

Terpenes are what give plants their distinct smells. Many plants create terpenes, fresh cannabis flowers and cannabis plants are just one of them.

Terpene is like a fingerprint.

No two are alike.

Both cannabis Sativa and cannabis Indica have different terpene profiles which give each their own unique smell.

Are terpenes harmful?

No, terpenes are not harmful.

In fact, many people believe that terpenes have a wide range of therapeutic benefits, some of which we’ve explored above.

cannabis terpenes Clinical cannabis studies on the therapeutic effects of terpenes are ongoing. However, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that terpenes may offer a wide range of therapeutic benefits.

Cannabis strains high in terpenes are often used to treat a wide variety of conditions such as anxiety, pain, inflammation, and more.

Image Source: 365 Recreational

What kind of different terpenes are there?

There are dozens of different types of terpenes. And new ones are being discovered all the time.

Some popular cannabis strains are known for their high terpene content.

For example, the popular strain “OG Kush” is known for its high limonene content. Limonene is a citrus-scented terpene that’s also found in lemons, oranges, and other fruits.

OG Kush is often used to treat pain, stress, and anxiety.

maine cannabis terpenes Other popular strains high in terpenes include “Grape Ape,” “Granddaddy Purple,” and “Blue Dream.”

These strains are known for their high myrcene content. Myrcene is a musky-scented terpene that’s also found in hops, thyme, and lemongrass.

Myrcene is thought to have sedative effects. It’s often used to treat pain, stress, anxiety, and insomnia.

Image Source: Leafly via Insider

How do I choose the right terpene profile?

If you’re looking for specific effects or potential health benefits, like pain relief or anxiety reduction, it’s important to choose a strain with the right terpene profile.

Do some research on the different types of terpenes and their effects. Then, choose a strain that’s high in the terpenes that you’re looking for.

You can also ask your budtender for recommendations. They should be able to help you find a strain with the right terpene profile for your needs.

Maybe you’re partial to a particular taste or smell. In that case, choose a strain with terpenes that produce the flavor or aroma you’re looking for.

For example, if you’re a fan of citrus flavors, look for a strain high in limonene.

If you prefer earthy or musky smells, look for a strain high in myrcene.

Remember, you can always experiment with different strains to see which ones you like the best.

Medical cannabis and recreational cannabis are available with a variety of different terpene profiles. So, you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for you.

Need help from experts? OMG Cannabis Co. in Portland, Maine is here to help. We’re your one-stop-shop for cannabis products. Contact or visit us to learn more.