Imagine a world without the refreshing aromas of lavender and sandalwood. It would be so dull, especially given that aromatherapy brings joy and comfort to so many. Have you ever wondered what it is that makes things such as lavender and sandalwood smell so strong? As it turns out, it’s the terpene contents of plants that provide them with their unique fragrance! This is true in the case of cannabis as well; terpenes are responsible for providing the variety of earthy, citrusy, and fruity scents & flavors that cannabis connoisseurs around the world have come to know and love.

Introduction to Terpenes:

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that occur in cannabis, fruits, and other plants. They are the substances responsible for the particular aroma (and flavor) that a plant has. Terpenes also use their scent to keep plants safe from predators like animals, bugs, and germs. Along with providing plants with protection, terpenes also lend many therapeutic effects, both physiologically and psychologically. Thankfully, research on these aromatic compounds is widely available. And with cannabis legalization expanding across the US, more research is being done on how terpenes impact the plant’s effects!

Benefits of Terpenes:

Terpenes are commonly known for how they induce aroma and flavor in a substance, but that’s just the beginning of the benefits they provide in nature.

• For Plants: Terpenes do so much for the plant itself. They promote pollination by using their scent to attract pollinators and also protect the plant by repelling predators like pests and animals. Even when the plant has been injured, terpenes can play a role in helping it heal by enhancing the plant’s immune system. 

• For Animals/People: In addition to impacting the taste and smell of different cannabis strains, terpenes have both direct and indirect effects on a person’s physical and psychological faculties. Available research has indicated that terpenes may elicit an entourage effect when consumed in cannabis; it does so by enhancing the effects of cannabinoids such as CBD and THC. If a cannabis strain has a high concentration of terpenes, the effects of the cannabinoids consumed will be more potent. Terpenes are also shown to have various therapeutic benefits, therefore attracting people for use as an alternative to traditional medicine when treating various ailments.

Will Terpenes get me High?

Research has shown that the terpenes alone do not elicit intoxicating effects. They don’t provide a “high” unless combined with already physically stimulating substances. For example, terpenes will enhance the intoxicating effects of THC, ultimately strengthening the overall “high” when both are consumed in tandem.

Are Terpenes Legal?

Terpenes themselves are not intoxicating and thus legal at all levels when consumed independently. The Farm Bill Law passed in 2018 ensures the safety linked to the hemp-derived terpenes. Since terpenes alone don’t have any intoxicating effects, they also won’t appear on drug tests. Considering that terpenes occur naturally in all plants, there are several botanical sources for the compounds that are separate from cannabis.

What are the Different Types of Terpenes?

Let’s discuss a few of the most common terpenes.

• Limonene: Limonene is most common in hemp/cannabis, cloves, and citrus fruits. It helps in relieving stress and boosting immunity. 
• Myrcene: Usually found in thyme, lemongrass, and cannabis, Myrcene gives off a sweet flavor with calming effects.
• Caryophyllene: Cloves, hops, and cannabis are rich in Caryophyllene; this compound is also responsible for the spiciness of black pepper. 

Some other common terpenes in cannabis include:

• Pinene
• Humulene
• Terpinolene
• Linalool

Takeaway:

Here at Passion Flower, we believe terpenes make the world a better place! Not only do they lend the aromatic goodness nature has to offer, but when used in tandem with other cannabis compounds, they can provide a large array of benefits both physically and physiologically. If you’re in search of pesticide-free cannabis concentrates that provide terpene-packed flavor, give Passion Flower a try at your next dispensary visit!

Thanks for reading,