What is a Terpene?

What is a Terpene?

Terpenes are organic compounds found in various plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the distinctive aromas and flavors associated with different cannabis strains. Terpenes are produced in the resin glands of the cannabis plant, alongside cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.

In cannabis, terpenes play a crucial role in influencing the overall sensory experience and effects of a particular strain. They interact synergistically with cannabinoids in what is known as the "entourage effect," potentially enhancing or modulating the effects of cannabinoids.

Terpenes are able to produce therapeutic benefits by interacting with the endocannabinoid system. Such benefits include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-bacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, anti-tumor, anti-cancer, anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties. Terpenes are also known to help improve metabolism and circulation, offer neuroprotection, improve mood, memory and cognitive function, promote relaxation, and relieve pain.

Terpenes that lend a more uplifting, cerebral, stimulating, alert, energized, or focused effect are categorized as ‘sativa’ terpenes while terpenes that lend a more calming, soothing, relaxing, sedative, pain relieving effect are categorized as ‘indica’ terpenes. When sativa and indica strains are cross-bred, they create what is referred to as a ‘hybrid’ terpene profile.

There are numerous terpenes found in cannabis, each with its own unique aroma and potential effects. Some common terpenes found in cannabis include:

1. Myrcene: Known for its herbal and musky scent, myrcene is associated with relaxing and sedative effects.
2. Limonene: Exhibiting a citrusy aroma, limonene is believed to have mood-enhancing and uplifting properties.
3. Pinene: As the name suggests, pinene has a pine-like aroma and is associated with potential anti-inflammatory and alertness-promoting effects.
4. Caryophyllene: With a spicy, peppery scent, caryophyllene is believed to have potential analgesic and anti-anxiety properties.
5. Linalool: Often found in lavender, linalool contributes to a floral aroma and is thought to have calming and relaxing effects.

These are just a few examples, and there are many more terpenes present in cannabis, each with its own unique characteristics and potential effects. The combination and concentration of terpenes in a cannabis strain contribute to its overall aroma, flavor, and potential therapeutic properties.

Here are some additional details about terpenes in cannabis:

1. Aroma and Flavor: Terpenes give each cannabis strain its distinctive aroma and flavor profile. The wide range of terpenes found in cannabis can produce scents reminiscent of fruits, herbs, spices, flowers, and more. These aromatic compounds contribute to the complex and diverse sensory experience of consuming cannabis.
2. Potential Effects: Terpenes are thought to interact with other compounds in cannabis, including cannabinoids like THC and CBD, to produce a variety of potential effects. While further research is needed to fully understand the precise mechanisms, it is believed that terpenes can modulate the effects of cannabinoids through the entourage effect. This means that different combinations and concentrations of terpenes may contribute to variations in the overall psychoactive and therapeutic effects of cannabis strains.
3. Therapeutic Potential: Terpenes have garnered attention for their potential therapeutic properties. Some terpenes found in cannabis exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), sedative, or mood-enhancing properties. These characteristics have led to interest in exploring terpenes for their potential in medicinal applications and synergistic effects with cannabinoids.
4. Beyond Cannabis: Terpenes are not unique to cannabis and can be found in various plants. They contribute to the distinct scents and tastes of many herbs, fruits, and flowers. For example, limonene is present in citrus fruits, and linalool is found in lavender. This shared presence of terpenes across different plant species may explain why certain scents can evoke familiar or nostalgic feelings.
5. Extraction and Analysis: Terpenes can be extracted from cannabis using various methods, such as steam distillation or solvent extraction. Once extracted, they can be analyzed and identified through techniques like gas chromatography or mass spectrometry. This analysis provides insights into the specific terpene profile of a cannabis strain and helps in understanding its potential effects and qualities.

It's important to note that while terpenes are believed to contribute to the overall cannabis experience, their effects can vary from person to person. Additionally, the presence and concentration of terpenes can be influenced by factors such as cultivation practices, environmental conditions, and post-harvest handling.

Exploring the world of terpenes in cannabis adds another layer of appreciation for the plant's complexity and the potential impact of these compounds on the overall sensory and therapeutic qualities of different strains.

STōN Live Resin Gummies utilize terpene-rich live resin extract produced using fresh flower as opposed to dried and cured buds. This method retains the terpenes that are lost during the drying and curing process, preserving the full spectrum natural terpenes and cannabinoids at their peak potency for a high-quality, connoisseur-level product. When you consume a cannabis extract that is full-spectrum you are likely to experience a healing effect that is stronger and will last for a longer time.