WHAT ARE CANNABIS-DERIVED TERPENES?

Have you ever wondered what gives cannabis its distinctive aroma and profile? Many people are familiar with the plant's well-known cannabinoids like THC and CBD, but terpenes - another key component of cannabis - are often overlooked. Terpenes are essential molecules that not only contribute to the plant's fragrance but also play an important role in the overall cannabis experience.

In this article, we'll explore cannabis-derived terpenes and discuss why they are so important. From their role in shaping profiles to their involvement in the entourage effect, cannabis terpenes offer much more than just a pleasant scent.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the plant's aroma and profile, contributing to the distinct smell of pine trees, lavender, and many other plants. While there are thousands of terpenes in nature, cannabis contains a variety of them that contribute to its unique qualities.

These compounds are often used in aromatherapy, perfumes, and cleaning products, and they contribute to the unique properties of cannabis, enhancing its aroma and profile. Unlike cannabinoids like THC and CBD, which directly interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, terpenes interact with cannabinoids to influence how a strain will affect you.

Why Terpenes Matter in Cannabis

Terpenes are not just about aroma and profile; they play a crucial role in shaping the overall cannabis experience. While THC is often considered the star of the show, terpenes act as the supporting cast, guiding the effects of different strains.

For instance, while two strains may contain the same level of THC, their terpene profiles can dramatically alter the experience. The interplay between terpenes and cannabinoids is what creates the nuanced effects that make each strain unique.

The Entourage Effect: How Terpenes Enhance the Experience

The entourage effect is the theory that the compounds found in cannabis - terpenes, cannabinoids, and other natural compounds - work together in harmony, enhancing each other’s effects. It’s not just the cannabinoids at work; it’s the combination of all the plant’s compounds.

In the context of cannabis, the entourage effect suggests that terpenes influence the overall experience by interacting with cannabinoids. For example, a strain high in limonene (a citrusy terpene) may contribute to a more energetic experience when combined with THC, while a strain rich in myrcene may create a more balanced sensory profile.

Terpenes in Cannabis Concentrates

Terpenes are not only important in the flower; they also play a significant role in cannabis concentrates. Products like live resin and live rosin are particularly high in terpenes, offering a more flavorful and aromatic experience compared to traditional concentrates.

Live resin and live rosin are made from freshly harvested cannabis that hasn't been dried or cured. This allows the terpenes to remain intact, giving consumers a richer, more vibrant experience. In contrast, dried cannabis often loses some of its terpene content during the curing process, which can result in a less flavorful concentrate.

Common Cannabis Terpenes and Their Characteristics

Cannabis contains a variety of terpenes, each contributing its own unique aroma and influence. Some terpenes are more common than others, and they can be found across many cannabis strains. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the most prevalent cannabis-derived terpenes:

• Myrcene: One of the most common terpenes, myrcene is known for its earthy, musky aroma and is commonly found in indica-dominant strains. It is recognized for its distinct profile.
  

• Pinene: As the name suggests, pinene is found in pine trees and has a fresh, herbal aroma. It’s often present in sativa-dominant strains and contributes to the overall aroma of the strain.
  

• Beta-Caryophyllene: This peppery, spicy terpene is found in a variety of cannabis strains and is notable for its unique molecular properties. It’s often present in strains with an earthy aroma and contributes to the overall profile.
  

• Terpinolene: Found in strains like Jack Herer and Silver Haze, terpinolene has a floral fragrance with a variety of notes. It’s commonly present in sativa-dominant strains.
  

• Humulene: This terpene is commonly found in hops and has an earthy, woody aroma. It's often present in hybrid and indica strains and is recognized for its grounding aromatic profile.
  

• Limonene: Known for its refreshing aroma, limonene is typically found in sativa-dominant strains. It contributes to the vibrant scent profile of many cannabis strains.
  

• Ocimene: This terpene offers a pleasant fragrance and is often found in cannabis strains with a tropical or floral profile. It's also noted for its presence in the natural environment during cultivation.
  

• Linalool: Found in lavender, linalool is known for its floral, slightly spicy aroma. It is typically found in indica-dominant strains and contributes to the strain’s aromatic and sensory profile.
  

Cannabis-Derived Terpenes vs. Botanical Terpenes

While cannabis-derived terpenes are naturally extracted from the cannabis plant itself, botanical terpenes are sourced from other plants. For example, linalool, a common terpene in cannabis, is also found in lavender. If a product contains linalool from lavender, it would be considered a botanical terpene rather than a cannabis-derived one.

Cannabis-derived terpenes are considered superior for consumers seeking an authentic cannabis experience because they retain the full spectrum of profiles and aromas associated with the plant. When used in concentrates or vape products, cannabis-derived terpenes contribute to the entourage effect, enhancing the overall experience.

Why Choose Cannabis-Derived Terpenes?

For those seeking the most authentic cannabis experience, products containing cannabis-derived terpenes are always the best choice. These terpenes offer a true representation of the cannabis plant, and when combined with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, they create a more complete and enjoyable experience.

At STIIIZY, we use premium cannabis flower in all of our products, ensuring that every strain showcases the natural terpene profiles of the plant. Whether you’re enjoying a pre-roll, concentrate, or vape, you can count on STIIIZY to deliver a high-quality experience that highlights the full potential of cannabis.