Know Your Cannabis: Terpenes

Terpenes are aromatic oils from the glands of plants, including cannabis plants. Terpenes in cannabis have been found to be identical to those in other plants. Terpenes from other plants are used to make essential oils. Formed in the trichomes of the cannabis plant, terpenes give cannabis strains their unique flavors and scents. Terpenes are produced along with THC, CBD and other cannabinoids.

More than taste and smell, terpenes amplify the physical and psychological effects from the cannabinoids. The collaboration between terpenes and cannabinoids is called the entourage effect. It is believed that terpenes increase the blood- brain barrier permeability, meaning the body can better process cannabinoids. Additionally, terpenes are said to affect the way THC binds to the CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. This is why many cannabis connoisseurs care as much about terpenes as THC and CBD percentages in their flower and concentrates.

Terpenes are thought to have their own medicinal properties, which is why other plants high in certain terpenes are used for pain relief, insomnia, and mood elevation. There are hundreds of terpenes found in cannabis. Over the coming weeks, we will have blogs dedicated to some of the most common terpenes!

To learn more about terpenes, check out our Know Your Cannabis Classes!