Terpenes and Flavor Profiles of Cannabis

In addition to THC and CBD, cannabis contains over 600 organic compounds and substances. Among them, terpenes hold a special place as they are responsible for cannabis’ flavor and aroma. Each marijuana strain has its exclusive set of terpenes, which create a distinctive flavor profile and, in synergy with THC and CBD, produce a unique effect.

Below we will explore what terpenes are and how they work.

What is the difference between terpenes and terpenoids?

Terpenes are volatile compounds made of carbon and hydrogen that are produced by plants and form their aroma and flavor. The scents of fruits, flowers, pine, honey, and cannabis all come from evaporating terpene molecules synthesized by the leaves and flowers of plants.

When natural terpenes oxidize, they become terpenoids, which contribute to the nuanced flavors and aromas in a plant's profile. Terpenes oxidize when exposed to oxygen (including the oxygen in the air) or through interaction with other organic compounds.

It is curious that despite the vast array of flavors and aromas terpenes provide, only two elements — carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) — are responsible for all of them, combined in very specific proportions:
(C5H8)n — terpene chemical formula

The aroma depends on the value of n and the type of bonds between the elements.

Terpenes become terpenoids when oxygen atoms are added:
(C5H8)n (OH)n — terpenoid chemical formula

Plants produce terpenes to repel pests and attract pollinators. Humans have found applications for them in both medicinal and alternative therapies, culinary uses, cosmetics, and other chemical industries.

How do terpenes affect the body?

Firstly, terpenes form the basis of aromatherapy, as essential oils contain a high concentration of these compounds. They influence the nervous system and mood: they can energize, calm, alleviate depression, and help with focus.
Secondly, all monoterpenes (with the formula C10H16) have antiseptic properties, making them highly valuable in the pharmaceutical industry.
Thirdly, some terpenes, such as pinene and terpineol, have expectorant and bronchodilator effects, which can aid in respiratory conditions like colds and bronchitis.

There are also terpenes with antifungal properties, such as terpene aldehyde in tea tree oil, which fights fungi and bacteria.

Moreover, certain terpenes act as antioxidants, preventing cellular damage, while others can stimulate the immune system, enhancing the body’s defense mechanisms.

Cannabis terpenes

The terpene profile of cannabis is the third most important factor determining its quality. Over 150 terpenes have already been identified in cannabis — nearly as many as in coffee and wine! The most common include:

• Myrcene
  • Scent: musky, with notes of clove.
  • Main effect: sedative, enhances THC and CBD effects.
  • Also present in: mango, lemongrass, thyme.
• Limonene
  • Scent: citrusy, very bright.
  • Main effect: mood-lifting, reduces stress and anxiety.
  • Also present in: citrus peels, rosemary, mint.
• Caryophyllene
  • Scent: spicy and woody.
  • Main effect: pain-killing and relaxing.
  • Also present in: black pepper, cloves, cinnamon.
• Pinene
  • Scent: piney, fresh.
  • Main effect: energizing and anti-stress.
  • Also present in: pine, basil.
• Linalool
  • Scent: blooming wildflowers.
  • Main effect: relaxing.
  • Also present in: lavender, mint, basil.
• Geraniol
  • Scent: floral and fruity.
  • Main effect: mood-lifting, relaxes the nervous system.
  • Also present in: roses, lemon, basil, and geranium.
• Farnesene
  • Scent: fruity, fresh, resembling green apple.
  • Main effect: anti-stress.
  • Also present in: apples, coriander, and hops.
• Terpineol
  • Scent: floral, with notes of lavender and citrus.
  • Main effect: relaxing.
  • Also present in: lavender, jasmine, and lemon tree.

Aroma profiles of popular marijuana strains

Most people tend to favor a specific terpene profile in cannabis. Here are some examples of common aroma profiles and popular strains for each.

• Citrusy and fruity: Amnesia, Lemon Kush, Sour Diesel, Pineapple Express
  High in limonene, these strains typically produce an energizing effect and help to fight depression and stress.
• Woody and piney: Haze, OG Kush, Jack Herer
  The primary terpene in these strains is pinene. Cannabis with a woody scent tends to have stimulating effects, improving mind concentration.
• Spicy and pungent: GSC, Master Kush, Bubba Kush
  The main terpene here is caryophyllene. Spicy strains are usually relaxing and calming but may also be stimulating depending on the levels of other cannabinoids and terpenes. They are known for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Earthy: Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights
  Earthy-scented strains, rich in myrcene, tend to have relaxing and calming effects.
• Floral and sweet: Cherry Pie, Lavender
  Dominated by linalool, these strains have relaxing and calming effects, ideal for reducing stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
• Tropical: Pineapple Express, Mango Kush, Tropicana Cookies
  These strains typically have energizing and euphoric effects.

Cannabis terpenes work in synergy with THC and CBD, amplifying and complementing the effects of these primary cannabinoids. However, terpene influence can vary even within the same strain. Terpenes are delicate and can degrade with improper storage of marijuana. Additionally, different terpenes evaporate at different temperatures, meaning their concentration and profile can significantly depend on how the cannabis is consumed.