Terpenes: The Olfactory Experience of Cannabis
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are natural aromatic components found in the cannabis plant, as well as other plants in the natural world. The terpenes found within a particular cannabis cultivar, referred to as the “terpene profile”, shape its unique characteristics.
It is scientifically accurate to say that terpenes are responsible for the olfactory experience of cannabis! Whether a particular cultivar of cannabis smells “gasey”, piney, floral, or of citrus, the smell is derived from the composition of terpenes found in that strain.
Cannabis researchers and consumers alike have demonstrated a growing interest in cannabis terpenes. Recently, cannabis enthusiasts have come to understand that terpenes account for the differing attributes between various cannabis cultivars or strains. A strain’s terpene profile will impact its taste, flavor, and felt effects (how it makes someone feel after consumption).
Individual terpenes influence how we experience a particular strain when it is consumed. This means that by carefully selecting a strain with a terpene profile that you like, you are able to intentionally design how you’ll feel when you consume the plant.
Think of aromatherapy…ohm. Terpenes are a foundational component of essential oils, with each terpene giving off its signature scent. Likening terpenes to essential oils can be one of many ways to think about terpenes and how they affect the human body..
For example… we know that lavender is an herb commonly used to help people relax. Lavender is high in a terpene called linalool, and cannabis consumers will find that strains high in linalool generally produce relaxing effects for the smoker.
Another helpful analogy you can use to describe terpenes to your customer is this: “terpenes are to cannabis as tannins are to wine”. When you go to the dispensary, one might be able to choose from strains like Blue Dream, OG Kush, and Purple Urkle. This is not too different than a wine consumer who goes to the grocery store and there, determines whether they want a Shiraz, Red Blend, or Cabernet Sauvignon for the evening.
Knowing common terpenes and their effects will help you design the cannabis experience you are seeking.
See below for more information about common terpenes found in cannabis, how they smell, and how they are likely to make you feel!
Top Terpenes Frequently Found in Cannabis
Smelling for Fit
Generally, if someone likes the smell of the weed, they will enjoy the taste and felt experience, as well. So, if you can, smell your cannabis before you buy it! Many new and seasoned cannasuers alike will let their nose guide them to their new favorite strain.
Additional Resources
Want to learn more about terpenes? Check out my prior exploration of terpenes here: “Your Terpene Questions, Answered”
I also wanted to pass on an informative article I found about terpenes, provided by my friends over at Veriheal.com: Understanding Cannabis Terpenes and Their Effects
Want to start studying what terpene profiles you might like?
I have a cool resource to pass on: Leafly.com
This Seattle-based company, and website, can help you connect to dispensaries in your area and will also provide you with helpful and easy-to-understand articles about cannabis wellness.
I highly recommend the “Strains” section of their website, which can help you find the right cannabis cultivar or strain for you based on terpene profiles, desired felt effects, and more!
Check out their strain database, from which you can start to review strains by terpene or by your desired effects (ie: creative, giggly, euphoric, etc).