Have you heard, that the THC and CBD percentage doesn’t matter that much?
When it comes to cannabis, most people focus on cannabinoids like THC and CBD. However, there’s another group of compounds that play a crucial role in determining the aroma, flavor, and effects of cannabis: terpenes. In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of terpenes, understand their properties, and learn how to harness their potential when combined with cannabis.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are a large group of aromatic compounds (+30,000 different types) found in various plants. Cannabis itself produces over 100 different terpenes along with cannabinoids and other compounds. Terpenes are responsible for the distinct scents and flavors associated with different strains of cannabis. Each strain and each plant has a unique terpene profile, shaped by genetics, growing conditions, harvest, post-harvest treatment, etc. They are volatile, meaning that they evaporate rather easily. Apart from their sensory attributes, terpenes also have therapeutic properties that can interact with cannabinoids, enhancing or modifying their effects.
Properties of Terpenes
Terpenes are believed to have a range of therapeutic properties, such as pain relief, anti-inflammatory, anxiety reduction, and others. Yet, since the terpenes were discovered not so long ago, more research is needed on this matter.
For example, here are some of the most well-known terpenes found in cannabis:
| Myrcene | Limonene | Linalool | Pinene |
| The most commonly found terpene in cannabis. Known for its calming effects. It can enhance the relaxing effects of THC. Also present in mango and hops, giving the beer its distinctive aroma. | Recognizable citrus aroma. Known for its mood-enhancing and energizing effects. May have anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties. Found in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges. | Floral and lavender-like aroma. Often used for its calming and relaxing effects. May have anti-anxiety and analgesic properties. Can be found in lavender flowers. | Gives off a fresh, pine-like scent. Often associated with increased mental alertness and focus. May have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties. Also found in pine trees. |
Extraction of Terpenes
To fully explore the potential of terpenes, it’s essential to understand how they are extracted.
One common method is steam distillation, where steam is passed through the cannabis plant material, causing the terpenes to evaporate and then condense into a separate collection vessel.
Another popular technique is solvent extraction.
In industrial production on large, expensive precision equipment it is possible to distill the extract – not distilling the alcohol from the extract as you do in an alcohol extraction, but distilling the actual extract, fractioning it into separate compounds and substances. This way, it is possible to separate the different terpenes and cannabinoids, making them available as “add-ons” for vapes and other cannabis products.
How to use Terpenes
There are several methods for incorporating terpenes into cannabis extracts, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. One popular method is to add terpenes to vape oil to create a personalized and flavorful vape experience. To do this, users can purchase terpene isolates and add them directly to a pre-made vape cartridge or mix them with a disposable vape pen.
Another common method is to add terpenes to cannabis extracts that you use in tinctures or edibles, to enhance their flavor, aroma, and effects. This can be done either by purchasing a terpene-infused extract or by adding terpenes directly to the extract.
You can create cocktails with terpenes, and even add them to your skincare products.
Whatever method you choose, incorporating terpenes into cannabis extracts allows you to personalize your consumption, creating a more enjoyable and personalized cannabis experience.
Frans said
You can buy a wide range of pure terpene isolates and terpene blends to add to your extracts before vaping – this gives you the possibility to shape the taste (and to some extent the effect) of the extract.
But here is the catch – the mix of terpenes, cannabinoids and other compounds in cannabis is extremely diverse and complex. Adding, say, limonene (a terpene found in cannabis and other plants) to your extract is a little like adding strawberry flavor compared to eating an actual strawberry. You could call it a simplified version of the taste experience.
We here at Drizzle have tested adding terpenes to the final extract, to make flavored vape carts. The concept is all good, but the experience when vaping is a highly subjective matter. Some people love it, some people hate it. Each terpene and tepene blend has a unique taste, that blends with the taste of each extract, giving different taste experiences.
*mic drop*
Can Merlin400 extract terpenes?
Terpenes dissolve in alcohol, much like cannabinoids do, and at a very similar rate. This means that when making an alcohol extraction you extract the terpenes from the plant material along with the cannabinoids.
When making an alcohol extraction using Merlin400, you extract the full terpene profile from the buds along with the cannabinoids, giving taste and shaping the effect of the extract. So the answer is – yes, it does! That is the beauty of a full-spectrum cannabis extract.
Conclusion
Terpenes are the unsung heroes of cannabis, contributing to the complex aromas, flavors, and effects of different strains. By familiarizing yourself with the properties of various terpenes, you can enhance your cannabis experience and customize it to suit your needs. Whether you choose to explore specific terpene isolates or enjoy the full-spectrum profile without separation, understanding the role of terpenes opens a whole new world of creativity and enjoyment within the realm of cannabis.
Remember to start low and go slow when experimenting with terpenes and cannabis. Take note of how different terpenes make you feel, and tailor your consumption accordingly to find the perfect balance for your personalized cannabis journey.
Honestly, we have only scratched the surface of this subject – while all of you users together hold a vast pool of knowledge. What is your experience with added terpenes? Please share!