Terpenes are hydrocarbons found in the essential oils produced by many plants, including cannabis. Terpenes give each cultivar their unique aroma and taste, they also have therapeutic properties and are a part of whole plant therapy

Terpenes and the entourage effect

Cannabis cultivars have a terpene profile that gives each cultivar it's signature taste and smell. However terpenes play a bigger role than just smell and taste, they have health benefits as well. Terpenes are believed to be a crucial player in the entourage effects and they play a role in the effect we feel when we use cannabis.

Common terpenes:

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Humulene

Found in basil, cloves and hops, humulene gives strains a woody, spicy and earthy taste and smell. It acts as an appetite suppressant and may help curb the munchies (unless other appetite stimulant terpenes are present) humulene is also an anti-infammatory, good for pain such as arthritis.
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Beta-Caryophollene

Found in black pepper, beta- caryophollene gives a peppery/spicy woody smell and taste to strains. Beta-caryophollene is the only known terpene to interact with the endocannabanoid system; receptors in the body involved in regulating pain, appetite, mood and memory. Strains high in BC may help treat arthritic pain.

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Linalool

Linalool, a terpene found in lavender gives floral/ lavender undertones to strains with this terpene. Thought to be nature's sleep aid, linalool may help calm the anxiety THC can produce.

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Limonene

Found in citrus fruit rinds, limonene gives strains a citrusy flavour and aroma. Limonene is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream after inhalation, it aids in the absorption of other terpenes through the skin and tissue. Clinical studies have shown limonene to have antidepressive effects.

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Alpha-Pinene

Alpha-pinene, found in pine needles and rosemary and is one of nature's most abundant terpenes. A-pinene is anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and aids in memory, counteracting the effects of THC, improving concentration.

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Myrcene

Found in mangoes and hops, myrcene gives strains a earthy, musky smell and taste. Myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis composing of more than 30% of the total essential oil. This terpene acts as a muscle relaxant and sedative and is associated with the "couch lock" feel indica strains can have.

Other terpenes:

Beta-Pinene: found in hops and nutmeg this terpene can help with memory loss and counter-acting the effects of THC

Cymene: found in cumin, oregano, thyme, anise, and coriander. This terpene can help with inflammation and anxiety.

Eucolyptol: found in eucalyptus this terpene helps with inflammation and is often found in topicals

Ocimene: found in mint, parsley and orchids this terpene can help with inflammation and the immune system.

Terpinolene: found in coriander and cumin this terpene helps boost antioxidants and can be calming