Terpenes... The name has been thrown around quite a bit these last few years in the cannabis space but what actually is a terpene and how does it tie in to good ole Mary Jane? Simply put, terpenes are the essential oils released by plants, fruits, flowers and cannabis that gives them their signature taste, scent and medicinal value. From the sweet tropical essence of a fresh cut mango to a bitter and spicy peppercorn, these organic profiles are unique in nature along with their effects on the human body. Cannabis is a chameleon and depending on the strain, origin and genetics you will see it morphs and produces vastly different terpene profiles. You may smoke a Lilac Diesel that has a soft floral taste that lulls you off to sleep and then the next day smoke a lemon heavy Sour Diesel that has your brain zinging like a Panera Super Charged lemonade. Both strains are Sativa and test very similar in percentage yet one lays you down for a nap and the other has you wanting to find the cure for cancer and run a marathon at the same time. Terpenes matter and there are 4 key ones you should know.
MYRCENE
( Pronounced Meer-Seen)
As the most dominate terpene found in cannabis, Myrcene tops the list of ones you should tuck away in your pocket. Tangy like a Two Hearted IPA, yet skunky like Pepe La Pew, this pungent odor is the number one scent you will be blasted with when walking into your favorite shop. It is the type of smell you catch walking to your favorite sesh spot when you know someone has already lit up the joint - it is unmistakable. Besides making up more than 50% of your favorite strains terp profiles, Myrcene can also be found in Thyme, Lemongrass, Hops and Basil. It's medicinal qualities cover a myriad of health concerns like pain management, inflammation, bacterial overgrowth and cognitive function. At high doses myrcene produces the euphoric effect that sky rockets your buzz to the moon and beyond. Though you can find this terpene in all cannabis strains, it's significantly higher in OG Kush, Tangie and Blue Dream. If you want to see two worlds collide, I highly recommend drinking some fresh Mango juice (it is super high in Myrcene) then taking a nice long drag off of your favorite bowl. Doing that will increase the terpene levels in your body which in return will extend your buzz along with taking the intensity to a place unheard of it.
Linalool
( Pronounced Li-Na-Lool)-oh-awl
Fresh like a magnolia tree blossoming in Spring, this floral terpene is the anxious minds dream when it comes to effects. Found in Rose, Coriander and Sweet Orange, Linalool is most commonly known for inducing sedation, easing tension, and lowering cortisol. Over all the effects work to lull your mind, body and spirit into a state of ease and undo the damage of living in a stressful world. If you are looking to take a load off, I'd recommend picking up some Grand Daddy Purple which is teeming with this terpene. If you want to take your relaxation to the next level, you can add a few drops of lavender essential oils into a warm bath while you enjoy your evening pre-roll. Linalool will flood your system with it's cozy powers and soon you will be ready to drift off to a good nights sleep
Humulene
( Pronounced Hoo-Mu-Leen)
When you walk into your local haunt for a brew, there is always a bitter fermented smell that wafts in the air. You take a sip of your Oberon and it makes your mouth pucker from it's dank earthy notes, but yet the flavor is so entrancing you have to have another drink. That profile many beer connoisseurs have come to love is the third terpene on the list, Humulene. Commonly found in hops, ginseng and ginger, this terp is helpful in treating minor allergic reaction, insomnia and chronic arthritic pains. Found in famous strains like White Widow and Gorilla Haze, Humulene packs a powerful punch that OG's have been enjoying for years. My pro-tip for those who suffer chronic inflammation is to steep a steamy cup of ginger tea after hitting a nice GSC dab, and your pain will melt like ice cream on a scorching summer day.
Caryophyllene
( Pronounced Care-ee-oh-fye-leen)
What is spicy and zesty that can be found in your cabinets right now? You guessed it! Caryophyllene. More commonly known for being the main terpene in peppercorns, this miracle essential oil is you BEST FRIEND when consuming cannabis. Picture this, you took your first ever edible and you realized 30 minutes in that you took way to much. There is no going back. Slowly you are being launched into a new dimension and you find yourself Googling "how to be less high?" The first piece of advice you get is to whip out the pepper shaker a make a seasoned munchie or to give it a good whiff. Desperate enough, you give it a shot, and within minutes you are feeling more level headed. Who do we have to thank for that miracle? The natural panic attack reducer, blood pressure leveler and calming terpene of Caryophyllene! If you think this is the terpene for you, strains like Bubba Kush and Chem dog will be your go-to picks.
Overall, terpenes are essential to the human body and how our nervous systems regulate. They are crucial in cannabis consumption and play a ginormous role on what effects you will experience. They can be utilized as tools to quell what ails us or enhance the monotony of day-to-day life. Whether you are a Myrcene maniac or a Linalool lover, there is a terpene out there for everyone!
Comments