Common Terpenes In Cannabis
Terpenoids The common focus when investigating a lab report is to take a look over the most prominent cannabinoids, including CBD, THC and CBG, however one of the most undervalued glimpses into the profile of the CBD oil is the presence of terpenes.
What Are Terpenoids/Terpenes ?
Terpenoids also known as terpenes are an organic compound produced by plants, providing plants such as cannabis with their notable flavours and aromas. There is a diverse range of terpenes, created in the sticky resin glands, while they are damaged at high temperatures.
They’re present in plants as their main use is to detract pollinators and herbivores from eating the plant or damaging it at all. However, the aromatic oils provide a great taste or smell that we associate with a number of plants and fruit, such as pine and citrus.
What Are The Most Common Terpenes Present In Cannabis?
While we’re constantly finding new cannabinoids and terpenes, it is believed there are approximately 200 terpenes in cannabis, depending on the type and strain. Below are some of the most commonly found terpenes in cannabis.
Myrcene
Myrcene is a monoterpene found in abundance in cannabis. The odour is generally perceived as relatively pleasant, most commonly found in basil and mangoes. You will also commonly find it in hops, which are used to make beer.
Depending on the cannabis strain, myrcene can make up approximately 65% of the total terpene profile, so expect this to be the dominant figure on the certificate of analysis.
The aroma is commonly described as earthy, with most associating it with the scent of clove.
Caryophyllene
Often seen at levels around 25% in cannabis, caryophyllene is commonly found in essential oils and is an aromatic terpene that provides that spice you get from black pepper.
Interesting studies have found that caryophyllene actually binds with the CB2 receptors, much like a cannabinoid, activating the endocannabinoid system.
Formally known as beta-caryophyllene, this terpene has anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown in animal studies to have analgesic effects.
Limonene
As the name might hint to, limonene is commonly found in citrus fruits such as lemons and limes. Next time you smell that citrusy lemon scent, you can thank this terpene for the aroma.
Classified as a cyclic monoterpene, limonene is also found in abundance in the cannabis plant, but not in all strains.
With antibacterial and antifungal properties, limonene has also been shown to modulate the signalling pathways to linked to several diseases.
Pinene
This bicyclic monoterpene is the terpene that provides that pine tree scent. This terpene is found in a huge number of plants, from rosemary to basil.
There are actually two forms of pinene, either a-pinene (alpha-pinene) or b-pinene (betapinene), while they’re found to have anti-inflammatory properties, much like many of the others on this list.
Forest bathing, or Shinrin Yoku, is a practice involving walking through the forest as a natural therapy. As you breath in the pinene pine scent, it is seen to have positive effect effects on the mind.
Ocimene
This monoterpene is not so commonly spoken about in discussions around terpenes and has a lack of studies, however it is also the terpene that is responsible for that amazing sweet flavour we associate with a number of herbs and fruits.
Found in mangoes, kumquat, parsley and mint, ocimene has more recently become a go-to for IPA’s, bringing it some more media attention.
Linalool
This terpene has been found in over 200 plants, including the likes of lavender, mint, birch bark and coriander, but it really is lavender it is most associated with.
With a soft and floral scent, linalool has been found to have sedative effects and is extracted from the previously mentioned plants and herbs to create essential oils for aromatherapy.
Terpinolene
Found in nutmeg and cumin, terpinolene is found in very small doses in cannabis. Discovered to have antibacterial properties and also rich in antioxidants, crucial in fighting off free radicals, terpinolene has a similar scent to pinene, with that pine tree aroma being instantly noticeable.
While terpinolene is found in small doses in cannabis, it can be found more commonly in strains that are high in THC.
