Terpenes & Cannabinoids - What are they?
What are terpenes?
Let's talk terpenes—they're the aromatic accessory of the plant world, giving cannabis (and many other plants) their distinctive smells and flavors.
Here's the cool part: terpenes aren't just about making things smell good. They also play a major role in the effects and potential benefits of cannabis. See, when we consume cannabis, these terpenes interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, influencing how they affect us.
Some terpenes, like myrcene, are known for their calming effects, while others, like limonene, can boost mood and energy. So, depending on the terpene profile of a cannabis strain, you might experience different effects and flavors.
And it doesn't stop there—terpenes have some pretty nifty health benefits too. Some are believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and even pain-relieving properties, adding to the overall experience of consuming cannabis.
And get this: terpenes aren't unique to cannabis. They're found in all sorts of plants, from lavender to citrus fruits, and they've been used for centuries in aromatherapy, traditional medicine, and beyond.
The next time you hear a crazy strain name, or catch a sniff of something special, take into account how those terpenes are doing more than just making it taste and smell amazing—they're also enhancing your experience in ways you might not even realize.
What are some of the terpenes in your products?
There’s a whole world of terpenes in cannabis and beyond but we’ve hand-picked a few that show up and show out in our products so you can get to know them better.
- Aroma: Think earthy, musky, and slightly herbal. It's like taking a walk through a pine forest after a rain shower.
- Flavor: Myrcene adds a touch of sweetness to the mix, with hints of ripe fruits like mango and citrus.
- Effects: Known for its relaxing and sedative properties, myrcene is like the chill pill of the terpene world. It's perfect for unwinding after a long day or easing into a peaceful night's sleep.
- Aroma: Zesty, citrusy, and oh-so-refreshing. Limonene is like a burst of sunshine on a cloudy day.
- Flavor: This terpene brings a tangy, lemony flavor to the table, with hints of citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits.
- Effects: Limonene is known for its uplifting and mood-boosting effects. It's like a shot of espresso for your senses, perfect for starting your day off on the right foot or combating stress and anxiety.
- Aroma: Spicy, woody, and slightly peppery. Beta-caryophyllene is like a warm hug from your favorite sweater on a chilly day.
- Flavor: This terpene adds a touch of spice to the mix, with hints of black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon.
- Effects: Beta-caryophyllene is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It's like a soothing balm for sore muscles and joints, perfect for tackling aches and pains.
- Linalool:
- Aroma: Floral, sweet, and slightly herbal. Linalool is like walking through a field of lavender on a warm summer day.
- Flavor: This terpene brings a delicate, floral flavor to the table, with hints of lavender, rose, and jasmine.
- Effects: Linalool is known for its calming and relaxing effects. It's like a gentle breeze on a hot day, helping to ease anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality.
What are cannabinoids?
Alright, so here's the deal with cannabinoids: they're the chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant that give it its unique properties and effects. Think of them as the power behind the scenes to make cannabis do what it does for you.
Now, the two most famous cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is the one responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis—aka, the high—while CBD is more chill, known for its potential therapeutic benefits, without getting you stoned.
Here's where it gets interesting: there are actually over 100 different cannabinoids in cannabis, each with its own potential effects and benefits. Some, like THC and CBD, are more well-known, while others are still being studied to unlock their full potential.
These cannabinoids interact with our bodies through the endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors found throughout our brains and bodies. That’s right, our bodies are primed to handle cannabis compounds and deliver the goods where they need to go within our bodies. When we consume cannabis, these cannabinoids bind to the receptors, influencing things like mood, appetite, pain perception, and more.
So, whether you're looking to relax, get creative, or find relief from pain, cannabinoids are the key players in the cannabis plant that make it all happen.