One of the things that sets each individual batch of cannabis apart from another, and yes, I said batch not strain, are the ratios of compounds making up that individual batch. For the most part, consumers today are primarily concerned with the percentage of the two most prominent compounds, namely THC, and to a lesser extent the percentage of CBD, within a particular batch. Aside from those two cannabinoids there are other compounds including, less known cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes. Over the last few years, the savvy consumer has become more interested in a group of compounds called terpenes and how the role that they play in the cannabis experience.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in various plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the distinct flavors and aromas of different strains of cannabis, and they also play a role in the potential effects of cannabis consumption. Here is a comprehensive list of 12 prominent terpenes found in cannabis, along with their tastes and potential effects:

Myrcene:

Taste: Earthy, musky, herbal, and slightly fruity.

Effects: Sedating, relaxing, and potentially anti-inflammatory. It may also enhance the psychoactive effects of THC.

Limonene:

Taste: Citrusy, lemony, and orange-like.

Effects: Uplifting, mood-enhancing, and potentially stress-relieving. It may also have antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Pinene:

Taste: Pine-like, woody, and herbal.

Effects: Alertness, mental clarity, and potentially improved respiratory function. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties.

Caryophyllene:

Taste: Spicy, peppery, and woody.

Effects: Potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It may also have anxiolytic effects and can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

Linalool:

Taste: Floral, lavender-like, and slightly spicy.

Effects: Relaxation, stress relief, and potential anti-anxiety effects. It may also have sedative properties and be useful for promoting sleep.

Humulene:        

Taste: Earthy, woody, and slightly hoppy.

Effects: Potential anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressing properties. It may also have antibacterial and antifungal effects.

Terpinolene:

Taste: Herbal, piney, and floral.

Effects: Uplifting, potentially sedating, and calming. It may also have antioxidant properties.

Ocimene:

Taste: Sweet, herbal, and slightly fruity.

Effects: Uplifting, potentially antiviral, and antimicrobial. It may also have decongestant properties.

Borneol:

Taste: Earthy, herbal, and camphor-like.

Effects: Potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. It may also have sedative properties and be useful for promoting relaxation.

Geraniol:

Taste: Floral, rose-like, and slightly fruity.

Effects: Relaxation, potential anti-anxiety effects, and potentially anti-inflammatory. It may also have antioxidant properties.

Terpineol:

Taste: Floral, lilac-like, and citrusy.

Effects: Relaxation, potential sedative effects, and potentially anti-inflammatory. It may also have antioxidant and antifungal properties.

Phytol:

Taste: Earthy, herbal, and slightly floral.

Effects: Potential sedative effects, relaxation, and potentially neuroprotective properties. It may also have antioxidant effects.

The interaction between THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and terpenes in cannabis is believed to contribute to the overall effects and therapeutic potential of a particular strain. This interaction is often referred to as the “entourage effect,” where the combined presence of multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in cannabis works synergistically to produce a more significant impact than any single component alone.

Terpenes can modulate the effects of THC by influencing its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system and receptors. Here are a few key points about the interaction between THC and terpenes:

Modulation of THC effects: Terpenes can potentially enhance or modify the effects of THC. For example, myrcene, when present in higher concentrations, may contribute to a more sedating and relaxing experience by increasing the permeability of cell membranes, allowing THC to more easily reach the brain. On the other hand, terpenes like limonene or pinene may promote a more uplifting and energizing experience.

Enhanced absorption: Certain terpenes, such as terpinolene, may enhance the absorption of cannabinoids like THC by increasing the permeability of cell membranes. This can potentially result in a quicker onset of effects and increased bioavailability.

Synergistic effects: The combination of THC and specific terpenes may produce synergistic effects, where the overall therapeutic potential is greater than the sum of its parts. For instance, the terpene caryophyllene has been found to interact with cannabinoid receptors and may contribute to the potential anti-inflammatory effects of THC.

Aroma and taste: Terpenes also contribute to the distinctive aroma and taste of different cannabis strains. These sensory attributes can enhance the overall experience of consuming cannabis and may influence the perception of its effects.

It is worth noting that the specific effects and interactions between THC and terpenes can vary depending on the unique composition of each cannabis strain. Different strains can have varying concentrations of terpenes and cannabinoids, resulting in a wide range of potential effects. Additionally, individual variations in metabolism and sensitivity can also influence the subjective experience of these interactions.

Research into the entourage effect and the specific interactions between THC and terpenes is still ongoing. While there is a growing body of evidence supporting the significance of these interactions, further studies are needed to fully understand the complexities and mechanisms involved.