You’re probably familiar with the cannabis plant’s more famous components, THC and CBD, but did you know that hundreds of additional compounds work hand-in-hand with those cannabinoids to produce a distinct high?
Terpenes — the hydrocarbons found in every plant’s essential oils — are responsible for the distinctive smells and flavors of your favorite strains. These unique compounds work directly with cannabinoids to unlock and enhance each strain’s effects and medicinal benefits.
Navigating today’s cannabis market can be overwhelming. Many consumers approach choosing a strain like shopping for wine: They find something with an attractive label at the ideal price point and move on. Others shop purely by THC potency and always ask for the strains with the most THC. But contrary to popular opinion, quality isn’t based on THC or good branding. Quality cannabis is characterized by a complex blend of cannabinoids and terpenes working in harmony. When these are consumed in combination, they deliver more robust and well-rounded effects that result in a product with a potent flavor profile and a more enjoyable high. This miraculous partnership is known as the “entourage effect.”
So how do we maximize the terpenes in our flower? It’s been proven that the best terpene profiles are developed by growing cannabis in the full spectrum of sunlight. Botanists understand that specific wavelengths are responsible for increasing the density of terpene-rich glandular trichomes, which in turn enhance the final plant’s terpene concentration. Try as they might, indoor cultivators will never be able to replicate the superiority of a sun-powered crop.
At Maggie’s Farm, we only cultivate our flower in natural sunlight out in the open air. This results in our final product having a better terpene profile than any other brand or product. Try any of our strains and experience the difference for yourself!
Below, get to know some of the more common terpenes that power your favorite strains:
The most common terpene found in nature, a-Pinene is responsible for the distinctive pine scents, and it lends a hand in some of our favorite energizing strains.
Although it's most prominent in tea tree oil and lilacs, a-Terpineol is often found alongside high levels of Pinene, making it difficult to identify. Its soothing floral profile makes a-Terpineol an easy choice for soaps and perfumes, and its tranquilizing effects have been well-documented in both lab mice and giggling, couchlocked smokers.
Known for its distinctive peppery, spicy scent, Caryophyllene is prevalent in strains that are said to provide stress and anxiety relief as well as providing potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
Though closely related to a-Pinene, this terpene stands apart as a mental stimulant, countering the short-term memory loss associated with THC and invigorating the mind to new levels. Unsurprisingly, it’s found mostly in sativa-dominant cannabis strains, as well as sharply fragrant plants like eucalyptus, basil, parsley, and (of course) pine trees.
Ocimene can be found in common household herbs like mint, parsley, and basil, and lends a sweet, woodsy smell to cannabis strains. Ocimene has potential antiviral, antibacterial benefits, and is oftentimes found in uplifting strains.
Humulene is prevalent in ginger, ginseng, and hops, and has been used for centuries in holistic medicine. It contributes a woody, earthy scent, and can be an effective anti-inflammatory and appetite suppressant.
Found in orange and lemon rind, Limonene might be the most recognizable of the terpenes. Strains high in Limonene tend to be energizing, yet offer stress relief, and not surprisingly have a citrus or fruity scent.
The soothing characteristics of Linalool, which is also found in lavender, make it one of the most widely used substances to help reduce stress. Strains testing high in Linalool will oftentimes have a floral scent with spicy undertones.
Myrcene or B-Myrcene is a significant component of the essential oil in several plants, including lemon grass, mango, and hops. Expect strains high in myrcene to have an earthy, peppery scent, and a calming or relaxing personality.
Prevalent in lilacs, nutmeg, and apples, Terpinolene can provide a variety of scents and flavors, from sweet to floral. Potential benefits include antioxidant, and antifungal, and this terpene tends to be found at higher levels in strains associated with calm and relaxing personalities.