Terpenes 101: All About Terpenes and Their Benefits on the Flavor and Effect of Cannabis
Cannabis is known for its psychoactive effects, but it also has a wide variety of other benefits. One of the many compounds that contribute to these benefits are terpenes. Terpenes are the aromatic oils, secreted by the same glands that produce cannabinoids, that give strains of cannabis their unique flavors and effects. In this blog post, we’ll explore what terpenes are, the benefits they offer, and how they interact with other compounds in cannabis.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are a class of organic compounds that are found in many different plants, including cannabis. Over 200 different terpenes have been identified in cannabis,and each one has its own unique aroma and potential health benefits.
What are the Benefits of Terpenes?
Terpenes have a wide variety of potential benefits, ranging from anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects to anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects. Some of the most commonly found terpenes in cannabis include:
Myrcene: One of the most common terpenes found in cannabis varieties. Myrcene has a disticnt aroma and has a relaxing effect on the body. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
Limonene: As you may have guessed from its name, Limonene has a citrusy aroma and is found in lemons, limes and most citrus. It is known for its anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects. It is also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Pinene: Like walking through a pine forest, Pinene has a piney aroma and is known for its bronchodilator effects, which can help with respiratory issues. It is also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Linalool: Also commonly found in lavender, Linalool has a floral aroma and is known for its sedative effects. It is also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Caryophyllene: Sometimes considered less desirable, Caryophyllene has a spicy aroma and is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. It is also thought to have potential as an anti-cancer agent.
Terpinolene: Terpinolene is known for its floral notes and sweetness. Many users note that it makes them feel relaxed and elevates their mood.
How do Terpenes Interact with Other Compounds in Cannabis?
Terpenes work synergistically with other compounds in cannabis, such as cannabinoids like THC and CBD. This is known as the entourage effect, which refers to the way that different compounds in cannabis work together to produce a greater effect than they would on their own. This is also why “full spectrum” products are promoted as better alternatives to distillates and highly refined cannabinoids.
Why Does This All Matter?
Storing your flowers and oils in a Curidor is proven to prevent the degradation of terpenes and other important chemical compounds in cannabis. Through extensive year-long lab studies Curidor has shown to be the only product that increases terpene retention in flowers and oils for 12 months or more.
Increase the shelf-life of terpene-rich organic material for over 1-year without detectable loss of terpenes or potency with a Curidor.
We have partnered with one of the most prestigious labs to make case studies of flowers cellared in the Curidor, vs in a jar at ambient temperatures. Over the span of a year, the flowers in the Curidor™ retained their full terpene profile, color and potency.
