Terpenes 101

Smelling Cannabis Makes Us Smile… But Why?

There is something about the scent of cannabis that always puts a smile on those smelling it. That is because cannabis smells sublime. The layered aroma’s are complex and seem to soothe and tickle the body and mind simultaneously. These aromatic expressions are caused by the plant’s terpenes (terpenoids), and can greatly influence your experience.

What are Terpenes?

Many plants naturally produce aromatic oils called terpenes (often abbreviated to terps). You know some of these aromas, such as rose, citrus, mint, and pine. Plants do this, among other reasons, for disease resistance, protection against predators, and attracting pollinators. The produced terps depend heavily on factors such as the climate, weather, soil type, age, and even the time of day of a plant. The terpene composition in a plant thus varies greatly, and looking at the genetics of the plant remains the best indicator of present terpenes. However, influencing the levels of terpenes in a plant externally is possible.

Some say terps form the largest and most diverse group of natural products globally. Terpenes occur not only in plants but also in some animals and insects. Terps are helpful not only for the flora and fauna but also for humans because our bodies need terps for some essential metabolic processes, for instance. For example, a commonly known terpenoid is beta-carotene, which our body uses to make vitamin A. We use vitamin A, among others, for growth and to maintain optimal vision and neural development. Vitamin K (necessary for blood clotting) and vitamin E (essential for reproduction) are also partly terpenoids. And this is just a small selection of examples since we presently know over 8.000 different kinds of terpenes!

Terpenoids in Hemp

The hemp plant also makes many different kinds of natural terpenoids. Each variety of cannabis makes different amounts of terps and in varying combinations. As a result, they determine each type of plant’s unique smell and taste.

Currently, we know over a hundred terpenes in the cannabis plant. The most commonly known terps in cannabis are linalool (also found in lavender, for example), pinene (brings the smell in pine trees, among others), limonene (very well known, mainly as the main fragrance in citrus fruits), myrcene (as encountered in mangos) and beta-caryophyllene (giving rosemary its distinctive smell, for example). And each terp brings its beneficial characteristics. However, these traits depend significantly on the amount and other chemicals present. The variations thus are countless and give wildly varying outcomes. For example, tangerines and lemons belong to the citrus family and contain the same terp and limonene but are very different-smelling fruits.

Furthermore, we know that terps do not get you high. But we also know that cannabis plants with the same amounts of THC and CBD can have different effects on the body. They can even taste differently. Terpenoids thus not only give each cannabis variety its unique aroma, but researchers believe that they also work together with the cannabinoids to determine its unique effect consequently.

Terps are Very Beneficial

Terps, thus, are remarkable substances and very versatile. As said, for plants themselves, but for us humans too. We use natural terpenes in many different ways, for example, in inks and varnishes, even in natural pesticides. But we also appropriate terps as fragrances and flavors in consumer products such as in food and drink products, as well as in perfumes and cosmetics. Terpenes are thus widely used for their aromatic qualities.

But that’s nowhere near all! Terps play a significant role in traditional medicine and herbal remedies. Aromatherapy is based on terpenes, for example. They also appear to be helpful with, among others, sleeping, appetite, seizures, pain, and boosting the immune system.

Moreover, some terpenes promote clarity, acuity, and a higher focus, while others potentially relieve stress and anxiety and relieve overall relaxation. For example, terpinolene is commonly found in uplifting, active strains like Sensi Seedbank’s Jack Herer and Dutch Passion’s Auto Durban Poison. Myrcene is found in many relaxing cannabis strains like Barney’s Farm Triple Cheese and Ceres’ White Indica. But this is very nuanced. As said, the aroma and effect of a terpene depend on the presence of other compounds, such as CBD and THC. And unfortunately, we do not nearly know everything there is to know about these beautiful terps. Yet.

Your Animal Friend and Terps

Does your animal ever go crazy for a particular plant? It’s the terps it is reacting to! The aromatic influence of terpenes tickles not only our human brains and noses.

Limited research has been done into the therapeutic effect of terpenes on animals. However, terpenes’ expected impacts and benefits for your loving friend reflect those for humans. So, terps do not get your animal high. And your animal also does not become dependent on terps. On the contrary, the same uplifting, focussing, painkilling, or calming effects you experience may be expected when introducing terps to your animal.

However, beware that the used product is THC-free, though, because there are some indicators that THC is toxic for animals. But do not worry; Hempshopper’s terpene products do not contain any THC. And be advised, always pay attention when giving your animal a new product. If your animal reacts poorly or refuses to take it, try a different terpene or go a different route entirely. Do not force a terpene on your (fury) friend if s/he doesn’t want it. Involve your vet in the process if you need guidance.

Many Terpene Options

At Hempshopper, we add cannabis terpenes to oils, concentrates, e-liquids, and resins. Therefore, you always find an appropriate method of consuming your desired amount of terps deliciously at Hempshopper. Whether on the road or relaxing in your home, Hempshopper offers a suitable terpene option. Improve your life now by incorporating hemp in all its forms into your daily routine!