Whether it’s the vanilla cake frosting scent of Wedding Cake, the strong citrus scent of Tangie OG, or the zesty, skunky scent of Mendo Breath – there is something very intriguing about the aroma of cannabis. But have you ever wondered why certain strains smell the way they do? There’s an explanation behind the sweet or skunky smell of cannabis, so let’s dive in.
The Basics
Every strain of cannabis has a unique terpene profile, and a strain can have several terpenes. Terpenes are what give cannabis its smell and medicinal properties. But what are they exactly?
Terpenes are organic molecules responsible for the unique aroma and flavor, as well as the health-benefiting properties, in cannabis and a variety of other plants, fruits, and organisms. For example, terpenes can be found in lavender flowers, oranges, hops, and pepper.
Cannabis plants have hundreds of different terpenes, which are formed inside secretory cells inside glandular trichomes, the same glands that ooze THC and CBD. Terpene production can be directly impacted by both the spectrum and intensity of light exposure.
“Specific spectra, environmental, and nutrient variables can all be manipulated to enhance terpenes (as well as flavonoids, and cannabinoids),” MJ Verdant Cultivation Director Chris Gioia explained. “This is thanks to the plant’s secondary metabolites.”
Secondary metabolites are compounds within a plant that aren’t required for growth or reproduction but are produced to grant a plant some selective advantages. Growers have the ability to dissect their methods of cultivation and directly impact secondary metabolites, which leads to the optimization of strains to reach their best potential.
Terpenes also play an important role in plants. In some plants, terpenes attract pollinators, while in others they cause a strong reaction to repel insects or foraging animals. Some terpenes help the plant to recover from damage and others help keep infectious germs, bacteria, and fungus away.
When talking about terpenes, some people use the term terpenoids interchangeably. However, terpenes and terpenoids are not the same – the terms actually have different meanings. Terpenes are the natural form of the molecules. They are hydrocarbons, meaning the only elements present in the compound are carbon and hydrogen. Terpenoids are the chemically modified form of the molecules. As a plant dries and cures – in the production of cannabis, for example – the terpenes oxidize and become terpenoids.
The Different Kinds of Terpenes
There are hundreds of different terpenes found in cannabis, but about 11-15 are the most prominent, along with their aromas, flavors, and effects. Here are some of the most primary terpenes in most cannabis strains on the market:
Myrcene is primarily musky, earthy, and herbal. It is also found in lemongrass, thyme, and hops.
Potential effects include relaxation, sedation, and mood-lifting.
Limonene is primarily citrus-scented. It is also found in fruit peels, juniper, and peppermint. Potential effects include mood-lifting and stress relief.
Pinene is primarily pine-scented. It is also found in pine needles, rosemary, dill, and basil. Potential effects include energy-boosting, alertness, and memory retention.
Caryophyllene is primarily spicy and peppery. It is also found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. Potential effects include relaxation and stress relief.
Humulene is primarily hop-scented, woody, and earthy. It is also found in hops, cloves, and basil. It has anti-inflammatory properties.
Eucalyptol is primarily menthol and mint-scented. It is also found in mint, sage, and tea tree oil. It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Terpinolene is primarily described as a “fresh” scent with piney, floral, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy notes. It is also found in lilacs, nutmeg, and cumin. It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Linalool is primarily spicy and floral. It is also found in lavender. Potential effects include mood-lifting and sedation.
Growers often identify the terpenes in each of their strains and develop a “flavor wheel” to help medical cannabis patients and recreational enthusiasts navigate strains based on effects. By mapping out terpene profiles, it has become easier to predict, and even manipulate the effects and medicinal value of varieties, giving breeders endless opportunities for developing new strains.
Why Do Terpenes Matter?
It’s not uncommon for cannabis enthusiasts to focus on THC alone or to use the terms “indica” and “sativa” to describe the effects of strains, however, they aren’t actually the best predictors of effects and potency. Understanding terpenes is essential to understanding the effect of a cannabis strain.
Unfortunately, knowing the possible effects of a specific terpene does not mean that’s always the case. The effect profile of any given terpene may change when in the presence of other compounds, meaning the right combination of cannabis compounds can be more potent and effective than an isolated compound. This phenomenon is known as the “Entourage Effect.”
Terpenes and cannabinoids may either exaggerate or suppress one another’s effects, depending on which combination is present in a given strain and how an individual responds to it. Some research has been done to better understand each terpene’s effect when used in conjunction with other compounds, but more is still needed.
Final Thoughts
Terpenes are the organic compounds responsible for the way most plants smell. They are abundant in cannabis but are also found in other plants, fruits, and herbs. As we learn more about terpenes and what effects each combination of compounds exudes, breeders can continue to selectively modulate the terpene ratios in strains to maximize desired benefits.
“To me, specific terpene, flavonoid, cannabinoid combinations play a critical role in the medicinal properties of cannabis – that’s why, when selecting a strain of cannabis, I’ve always found it extremely beneficial to experience the full spectrum effect of that strain,” Goia said. “All of these exciting variables that encompass the passion of cannabis cultivation play key roles for me.”
No two cannabis enthusiasts will experience terpenes in the exact same way or will find the same aromas and flavors appealing. “At the end of the day, it’s all about personal preference. Due to people’s unique biochemistry, these combinations will produce effects that differ for some but align with others. That is the beauty of cannabis. As well as the importance of the preservation of specific strains, whether the preference is for medicinal or recreational purposes.”