We talk a lot about the value of terpenes here at CERTIFIED, but you might be asking yourself – what are terpenes, and why do they matter?
Simply put: Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give each cannabis strain its unique smell and taste. They also enhance the different effects associated with cannabis.
While not everyone may know about terpenes, you’re likely familiar with their aromas and effects. For example, lavender, often associated with relaxation, contains Linalool, a terpene linked to calming and sedative effects.
Once we recognize that terpenes are associated with other common sources, we can breakdown some of the most common terpenes you’ll come across in your cannabis experience!
Myrcene
Reported Effects: Sedative, relaxing, anti-inflammatory
Myrcene is one of the most prevalent terpenes in cannabis, often found in high concentrations. It has a musky, earthy aroma with hints of fruity sweetness. Myrcene is believed to have calming and sedative effects, making it a popular choice for those seeking relaxation or relief from insomnia. It’s also found in hops, thyme, and lemongrass, contributing to their characteristic scents and therapeutic properties.
Caryophyllene
Reported Effects: Anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, anxiety-reducing
Caryophyllene, known for its spicy, peppery scent, is unique among terpenes because it can also act as a cannabinoid, interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon, Caryophyllene is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it a valuable terpene for medicinal cannabis users.
Limonene
Reported Effects: Uplifting, stress-relieving, mood-enhancing
As the name suggests, limonene has a strong citrus aroma, reminiscent of lemons and oranges. This terpene is not only uplifting and energizing but also has potential mood-enhancing and anti-anxiety effects. Limonene is common in the rinds of citrus fruits and is often used in cleaning products and cosmetics for its refreshing scent and antimicrobial properties.
a-Pinene/b-Pinene
Reported Effects: Memory-enhancing, anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory
Alpha-pinene and beta-pinene are two terpenes that share a similar pine-like aroma, reminiscent of a walk through a forest. Alpha-pinene is known for its potential to improve focus and alertness, as well as its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects, which can benefit those with respiratory issues. Beta-pinene, while similar in scent, is also found in hops, parsley, and rosemary, and shares many of alpha-pinene’s therapeutic benefits.
Humulene
Reported Effects: anti-inflammatory, appetite suppressant
Humulene has a woody, earthy aroma with subtle spicy notes. It’s commonly found in hops, basil, and cloves. Found in hops, basil, and cloves, Humulene is known for its anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressing properties., making it an interesting terpene for those looking to manage inflammation or control hunger.
Linalool
Reported Effects: Calming, anti-anxiety, pain-relieving
Linalool is responsible for the floral, lavender-like scent found in many cannabis strains. This terpene is well-known for its calming and relaxing effects, often used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety. Linalool also has potential analgesic and anti-epileptic properties, contributing to its therapeutic versatility.
Terpinolene
Reported Effects: Uplifting, antioxidant, anticancer properties
Terpinolene has a complex aroma, blending floral and herbal with citrus and pine notes. Though less common, it plays a significant role in some cannabis strains and is believed to have antioxidant, sedative, and anti-cancer properties. Traditionally, terpinolene is used as a mild central nervous system depressant, often exhibiting sedative effects, especially when combined with Linalool.
Fenchol
Fenchol has a fresh, lemony, and camphor-like scent. Found in basil, it has potential antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Though not as widely studied, Fenchol’s distinctive aroma and therapeutic potential make it an intriguing component of cannabis.
Be on the lookout for terpene profiles you enjoy! Once you find the terpenes that work best for your needs, you can identify other strains and products with similar profiles, ensuring a consistent experience without being tied to specific genetics and their availability.
Source: https://utoya.com/terpenes-ultimate-guide/
What is the difference between Cannabis-Derived Terpenes (CDT) and Botanical Terpenes?
As discussed above, terpenes are found all throughout the nature. For this reason, there are multiple sources to isolate the specific terpenes we want:
Cannabis-Derived Terpenes: These come directly from non-hemp cannabis and are considered the gold standard. At CERTIFIED, these terpenes are extracted from our own strains, providing an accurate profile of the strain used.
Botanical Terpenes: For those who don’t enjoy the typical cannabis smell and taste, these terpenes were initially derived from natural sources like lavender for Linalool, pine needles for Pinene, and black pepper for Caryophyllene. With the expanded legality of hemp production, botanical terpenes are now often pulled from hemp plants. These terpenes are associated with many fruity and savory flavors without the predominant cannabis smell and taste, ideal for our DISCREET line.
