On Terpenes
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Terpenes are aromatic oils that are secreted in the same glands that produce cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.
Amazingly, over 100 different terpenes are identified within cannabis plants, and each strain possesses a unique terpene profile.
Combinations of terpenes imbue different cannabis strains with distinctive aromas and, alongside THC and CBD, distinct effects. Some common cannabis terpenes and their basic aroma profiles are described below.
SWEET
NEROLIDOL
Nerolidol has a fruity aroma, and has antifungal and antimalarial properties. It is also known to produce a sedative effect.
GERANIOL
Geraniol has a floral, stone-fruit aroma and is used as a commercial berry-flavour agent. Geraniol is a natural antioxidant.
LINALOOL
Linalool has a strong, herbal aroma, and is found prominently in lavender. Linalool has a strongly sedating effect.
TERPINOLENE
Terpinolene has a complex herbal aroma that has been paradoxically described as fresh, woody, sweet and piney, with a hint of citrus.
SOUR
OCIMENE
Ocimene has a tropical aroma with vegetal nuances. It is a flavor and fragrance additive and a common component in essential oils.
BISABOLOL
Bisabolol has a nuanced, tangy aroma, and is used in various fragrances. It has been shown to have some anti-inflammatory properties.
LIMONENE
Limonene has a sour, citrus aroma, and it is believed to enhance mental focus. It also has antifungal and antibacterial properties.
EUCALYPTOL
Also known as cineole, eucaplyptol has an uplifting, fresh mint-like aroma, and is found in flavourings, fragrances, and cosmetics.
SKUNKY
CAPRYLIC ACID
Caprylic acid has a cheesy aroma, and is found naturally in the milk of various mammals, and in coconut oil and palm kernel oil.
MYRCENE
Myrcene is the most commonly occuring cannabis terpene, and lends a complex, musky smell that is at once earthy, fruity, and citrus.
TERPINEOL
Terpineol has a pleasant, spicy aroma, and is used in commercial fragrances. Terpineol-4-ol is used in fragrances for spice types.
CARYOPHYLLENE
Caryophyllene has a woody, dry clove aroma and tastes pepper spicy. It is a major terpene found in black pepper, clove and cotton.
SAVORY
BORNEOL
Borneol has a cool, camphor aroma and is used as a calming sedative. It is found in small quantities in many essential oils.
PINENE
Pinene is found in many plants, but is most abundant in the pine tree. Naturally, pinene gives cannabis a savory, coniferous aroma.
HUMULENE
Humulene is found in hops, coriander, cloves, and basil. It has appetite suppressant properties, and a hoppy, earthy aroma.
CADINENE
Cadinene has a woody, smoky aroma. It has shown some antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.