While many know that cannabis is a popular choice for stress relief, pain management, and relaxation, few understand terpenes' role in enhancing its effects. Terpenes are responsible for giving each cannabis strain its unique aroma and flavor, as well as contributing to its specific effects.
DACUT in Michigan is one of the leading marijuana dispensaries in Michigan's Detroit and Flint areas. We believe in empowering our customers with complete knowledge of all components of the marijuana plant, including terpenes. In this article, we will explain how terpenes can help you get the most out of your cannabis experience and lead to increased satisfaction and well-being.
WHAT ARE TERPENES?
Cannabis terpenes in any plant provide a distinct aroma and flavor to repel predators or attract pollinators, and marijuana plants are no different. The terpenes cause the aroma and flavor you experience when you smoke or ingest cannabis.
Over 100 terpenes have been identified, with every type having a unique profile. The most common terpenes include:
Limonene: A fruity citrus aroma
Humulene: Earthy, woody, and spicy aromas
Pinene: A pine tree aroma
Linalool: A sweet floral fragrance with a bit of spice
Myrcene: Earthy, fruity, and clove-like aromas
Borneol: A woody, herbal aroma
Phytol: Floral aromas
WHERE CAN YOU FIND TERPENES IN CANNABIS PLANTS?
Sticky, semi-transparent glands cover the surface of the buds and even on the leaves and stems. These glands, called trichomes, produce terpenes along with THC and CBD compounds.
HOW ARE TERPENES DIFFERENT FROM CANNABINOIDS OR FLAVONOIDS?
Along with THC, CBD, and terpene compounds, marijuana plants contain cannabinoids and flavonoids. Terpenes are similar to flavonoids in that they contribute to the aroma and flavor of cannabis. However, flavonoids also supply the color characteristics of different marijuana plants and have properties that provide benefits, such as antioxidants.
Cannabinoids are active chemicals similar to TCH and CBD, which all contribute to the psychoactive and physiological effects of marijuana use.
THE ENTOURAGE EFFECT: HOW DO TERPENES WORK?
An entourage effect means that one chemical compound can positively contribute to another compound but has no effect by itself. For example, in the case of weed terpenes combined with cannabinoids, they can increase or balance the results of the cannabinoids and make the experience more favorable.
For example, TCH affects the brain by increasing food cravings while using cannabis. On the other hand, two terpenes, humulene and limonene are known to be appetite suppressants. So if your weight is an issue, using a cannabis strain, such as Super Lemon Haze, will help reduce hunger rather than increase the appetite while using marijuana.
DO TERPENES DETERMINE IF A STRAIN IS INDICA VS. SATIVA?
How terpenes influence the effects on the brain from THC will determine what category a particular cannabis strain falls under. While too much THC can make you tired and sedated, too little can make you more focused, alert, and awake. Certain cannabis terpenes have the ability to control how much of the THC is absorbed into the body.
For example, phytol, a weed terpene, will allow more THC to be absorbed in the body, providing a sedative effect. At the same time, pinene is known to improve mental clarity, focus, energy, and mood by lessening the amount of THC absorbed in the body.
Indica strains provide relaxation, while sativa strains provide energy and focus. In this case, an Indica strain like Banana Pop might contain phytol terpenes. In contrast, the sativa strain, like Cali Chem, might have pinene.
DO MARIJUANA TERPENES GET YOU HIGH?
Terpenes, by themselves, do not have any psychoactive effects on the brain and will not get you high. However, combined with the cannabinoids contained within the plant, the terpenes can increase or decrease the psychoactive and physiological effects of cannabinoids depending on the result you want.
CHOOSE DACUT IN MICHIGAN FOR YOUR CANNABIS NEEDS
Learn more about cannabis terpenes and other marijuana plant components from DACUT in Michigan. For cannabis flower, concentrates, edibles, and other marijuana products come to see us today. DACUT is a fully transparent and compliant weed dispensary that provides our valued customers with the best customer service and quality products.
Visit us at our Detroit or Flint locations or take advantage of our free delivery service. Download the app to keep track of your loyalty points when you join as a Diamond Club Member. Get 30% off your first order on our app or online.
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