Ever wonder what makes one strain of cannabis make you feel uplifted and another help you chill out? The secret might just be in the terpenes! These little aromatic compounds don’t just give cannabis its scent—they also can play a part in the effects you feel.
We recently chatted with Tabitha Fritz, founder of Level Up Bud, to learn all about these unsung heroes of the cannabis world. We explore what terpenes are, why they matter, and how they can change your cannabis experience.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are natural compounds found in plants—and they’re responsible for all those wonderful scents you notice. From the zesty brightness of lemons to the calming vibes of lavender, terpenes are behind the aromas we love. But in cannabis, they can do more than just smell nice—they can actually influence how the strain makes you feel.
In the plant world, terpenes have two main jobs:
Attracting pollinators (like bees).
Defending the plant from pests and disease.
But when it comes to cannabis, terpenes can also interact with our bodies. When you inhale them, they connect with the limbic system in your brain—the part that controls emotions, memory, and even breathing. This is why certain terpenes, like the ones in lavender, might help you relax, while others (like citrus) might give you a mood boost.
The Entourage Effect: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Here’s the fun part—terpenes don’t work alone! They team up with THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids and molecules to create what’s called the entourage effect. This means that when these compounds work together, they produce a much more powerful effect than they could on their own.
Take beta-caryophyllene for example. It’s a spicy, peppery terpene that works with your body’s endocannabinoid system in a similar way that CBD does. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can even help tone down the psychoactive effects of THC. So, if you ever get too high, chewing on some black peppercorns (which are rich in beta-caryophyllene) might help you feel more balanced. Pretty cool, right?
Common Terpenes in Cannabis and How They Might Affect You
Each cannabis strain has its own unique terpene profile, which can shape your experience. Here’s a quick look at some of the most common terpenes you’ll find in cannabis and the possible effects they can bring:
Limonene
Smell: Citrusy
Effects: Uplifting, mood-boosting
Found In: Lemons, oranges
Myrcene
Smell: Earthy, musky
Effects: Relaxing, sedative
Found In: Mangoes, thyme
Linalool
Smell: Floral, lavender
Effects: Calming, stress-relieving
Found In: Lavender, mint
Pinene
Smell: Pine, fresh
Effects: Enhances focus, reduces inflammation
Found In: Pine needles, rosemary
When you understand the terpene profile of a cannabis product, you can pick one that suits your needs—whether you’re looking to relax, lift your spirits, or boost focus.
Why You Should Care About Terpenes
If you’ve been focusing only on THC or CBD levels when choosing cannabis, it might be time to also pay attention to the terpenes! These compounds can have a major impact on the overall experience, helping you tailor your cannabis use to what you need—be it energy, relaxation, or relief from discomfort.
By getting to know terpenes and how they interact with cannabinoids, you can make smarter, more informed choices when picking your next product.
At ElionMED, we’re all about helping you explore the full potential of plant medicine. Terpenes are just one piece of the puzzle, but they can certainly enhance your cannabis journey! Check out the FREE ElionMED educational platform to learn more.
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