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What Are Terpenes? How They Affect Your High and Flavor Profile
When you smell a citrusy cannabis strain or taste an earthy, pine-like note in your bud, you're experiencing terpenes. These aromatic compounds are found in cannabis and many other plants, playing a crucial role in both flavor and effects.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are organic compounds that give cannabis strains their distinctive aromas. They're found in the resin glands of the plant, alongside cannabinoids like THC and CBD. But terpenes do more than just add flavor—they influence how cannabis makes you feel by interacting with cannabinoids in what’s known as the entourage effect.
How Do Terpenes Affect Your High?
Beyond smell and taste, terpenes can enhance or modify cannabis effects. Some terpenes promote relaxation and sedation, while others encourage alertness and creativity.
Common Cannabis Terpenes and Their Effects
| Terpene | Aroma | Effects | Common Strains |
|---|---|---|---|
| Myrcene | Earthy, musky, herbal | Sedative, relaxing, enhances THC absorption | Granddaddy Purple, Blue Dream |
| Limonene | Citrus, lemon | Uplifting, anti-stress, mood-enhancing | Super Lemon Haze, Durban Poison |
| Pinene | Pine, fresh | Alertness, anti-inflammatory, memory retention | Jack Herer, OG Kush |
| Linalool | Floral, lavender | Calming, anti-anxiety, sleep aid | Lavender Kush, Amnesia Haze |
| Caryophyllene | Spicy, peppery | Pain relief, anti-inflammatory, stress reduction | Girl Scout Cookies, Bubba Kush |
The Entourage Effect: Terpenes + Cannabinoids
Terpenes and cannabinoids work together in what’s called the entourage effect. This means that a strain’s effects are not just about THC or CBD, but how all of its compounds interact.
How to Choose Cannabis Based on Terpenes
- If you want relaxation, look for strains high in myrcene.
- If you need focus and clarity, opt for strains with pinene.
- If you're looking for an uplifting buzz, go for limonene-rich strains.
By understanding terpenes, you can tailor your cannabis experience to suit your mood and needs. Next time you're shopping for cannabis, check the terpene profile—your high might depend on it.