Terpene Science 101
Have you ever wondered why the cannabis plant takes on so many different smells and flavors? The reason is terpenes (“tur-peens”).
Terpenes are the small molecules found in the glandular trichomes of the cannabis flower that jump out of a bag of top-shelf cannabis and smack you pleasantly in the nose. There are over 200 different terpenes found in the cannabis plant, but a few appear much more regularly. Every cannabis strain has a unique terpene profile based on its genetic makeup, allowing cannabis connoisseurs the ability to distinguish among various stains based on smell alone.
In addition to creating unique flavor profiles, terpene structures also contribute to the overall effect of cannabis on the user. When terpenes interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, they change how the cannabinoids effect the user, thus altering the strain’s overall effect. This synergy is commonly known as the “entourage effect.” This is why every strain seems to have a different “high.” It is why a sativa-leaning hybrid like Blue Dream gives you energy and gets your creative juices flowing, but strong indicas like Kush leave you melting into your couch. Each strain contains different concentrations of key terpenes Myrcene and Pinene.
And that’s not all. Terpenes also offer serious medicinal and therapeutic value. Terpenes have been identified as effective in treating inflammation, ulcers, pain, heartburn, anxiety, acne, asthma, sleeplessness, depression, fungus, and bacterial infections, just to name a few. **Please note that recreational cannabis is not meant to treat or cure any disease.
At Zion, we feel that knowing the terpene profile of the strains we sell is crucial to providing you with the information you need to make informed purchase decisions. Unlike other dispensaries, we test the terpene profile of all our strains, and we’ve integrated these terpene profiles into our menu along with the THC and CBD content. It’s part of our commitment to providing you with the best possible cannabis shopping experience.
Below are five of the most important terpenes found in cannabis. Take a look at how they can alter the effects on the user. Then, when you visit our store or order online, look for the terpene profiles we provide for our strains. In no time, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a cannabis connoisseur.
CARYOPHYLLENE
Fragrance – Cloves, spicy, woodsy, pepper
Effects – Physical effects not detectable
Therapeutic Uses – Anti-inflammatory, arthritis, ulcers, gastroprotective, autoimmune disorders, & other gastrointestinal issues **
Strains – Hash Plant
LINALOOL
Fragrance – Candy, floral, citrus
Effects – Sedation & anxiety relief
Therapeutic Uses – Anti-convulsant, anti-anxiety, anti-acne, & anti-depressant **
Strains – Amnesia Haze, G-13, LA-Confidential, Lavender
PINENE
Fragrance – Pine. Also found in pine needles and rosemary
Effects – Energy, altertness
Therapeutic Uses – Pain, anti-inflamatory, asthma, antibacterial **
Strains – Blue Dream, Day Tripper, Jack Herer, Chemdawg
MYRCENE
Fragrance – Earthy, musky and fruity clove-like scent. Also found in mangos, hops, and thyme.
Effects – Sedation and relaxation. Often described as “couchlock.”
Therapeutic Uses – Pain relief, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, sleep aid, muscle tension **
Strains – OG Kush, Gatekeeper OG, The Purps
LIMONENE
Fragrance – Citrus, sweet, tangy, bitter. Also found in citrus rinds and juniper
Effects – Stress relief and relaxation
Therapeutic Uses – Anti-anxiety, anti-depression, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, heartburn, gastrointestinal problems **
Strains – OG Kush, Gatekeeper OG, Starmaster Kush, Super Lemon Haze, Jack The Ripper, Lemon Skunk.
**Please note that recreational cannabis is not meant to treat or cure any disease.