The most recognizable, and arguably the best appealing, attributes of the cannabis plant are the scents and flavors it produces.
In a previous Salt-Baked article, we learned that the organic compounds known as “terpenes” are responsible for the eclectic aromas cannabis produces. In case you forgot, terpenes are fragrant oils located within the trichomes that cover cannabis flower.
Unlike other plants, cannabis has over 1,000 different types of terpenes which provide its uniquely varying odors.
Terpenes and cannabinoids are produced in the plant’s tiny trichome glands. “Terps,” as they’re referred to throughout cannabis culture, take up to 10 percent of the oily gland space, which is an area the size of a pinhead.
Besides making your favorite sticky-icky smell the way it does, these organic compounds can carry a punch, much like the cannabinoids THC and CBD, and are responsible for the entourage effect created by the many different strains of cannabis.
Here are the most common terpenes in the medical cannabis found at your local pharmacy:
Pinene
Have you ever walked through the Uinta mountains after a fresh rain, and thought to yourself, “It smells like weed?” A common cannabis aroma is that of pine needles, which comes from the pinene terpene. This terpene is known for creating alertness, euphoria, and creativity. It’s also possible that it offsets the memory-loss caused by THC. Other medical benefits include antiseptic, and mild asthma relief. Pinene is also found in dill, parsley, basil, and rosemary.
Limonene
This terpene smells like peeling a fresh orange next to the Wasatch river, and can taste like the juicy unpeeled fruit. This citrus-scented terpene is known to elevate mood, and relieve stress. Other medical benefits include gallstone and heartburn relief, anti-fungal effects; gastroprotection, and antidepressant effects. Other than cannabis, Limonene is found in juniper, rosemary, fruit rinds, and peppermint.
Linalool
A favorite pastime for Salt-Baked staff while visiting Denver, is to hit IT’SUGAR candy shop after spoiling ourselves at a nearby recreational pot shop on 16th Street. Linalool smells a lot like an opened bag of mixed candy, and is considered the most floral-fragranced terpene. Medical benefits include protection against anxiety, convulsions, depression, and aches. Linalool is found in lavender, jasmine, rosewood, basil, and thyme.
Humulene
Ever open a Utah crafted beer and realize it smells like weed, man? If so, you’re probably drinking a brew with high hop content, which means it contains high amounts of humulene. Hops and cannabis have similar traits and fall into the same plant category, called Cannabaceae. Also described as earthy, humulene may have anti-inflammatory effects.
Myrcene
The most commonly found terpene in the cannabis world is myrcene. It’s a musky, couch lock-inducing, citrus scented terpene that may produce relaxation, and body highs. Found in most Indicas, it’s also present in mango, thyme, ylang-ylang, lemongrass, hops, and parsley. Myrcene is an antioxidant and anti-carcinogen. Other medical benefits include pain reduction, muscle relaxation, and restful sleep.
Beta-Caryophyllene
For those suffering back pain, this sweet, woody, spicy, and peppery scented terpene might be your new best friend. Beta-caryophyllene is known to ease away pain and is used medicinally as an anti-inflammatory remedy.
Terpineol
This floral or lime-scented terpene is a major constituent of many essential oils found in plants. It’s also used in all types of fragrances. Utah medical cannabis patients can expect a sedative, couch-lock effect after a certain amount of exposure.
Delta-3-Carene
The tell-tale sign of a cannabis user is red eyes and an abundance of thirst. You’ve seen it at your local bar, or you’ve even tried to hide it from your boss with Visine. These effects are the result of a sweet and cedar flavored terpene called delta-3-carene. Its medical benefits are used to, ironically, dry excess fluids like tears, runny noses and excessive menstrual flow. Other than cannabis, it is found in rosemary, basil, pepper, and cedar.
Eucalyptol
This spicy and minty smelling terpene is known for its balancing and stimulating effects. Medicinally, it can be used to relieve pain and increase circulation. It’s also used in many essential oils for relieving sinus and lung congestion.
Borneol
Close your eyes, and picture yourself meditating in the middle of a deep forest, with nothing but trees and the material they produce. What do you smell? Probably borneol. This terpene is valued for its woody, camphor-like aroma. Notice how we didn’t mention bugs above? Borneol is also used as a natural insect repellent. A staple of traditional Asian medicine, this cannabis-friendly terpene is an effective anti-inflammatory and pain reliever, primarily used topically. It has also been proven effective as an anticoagulant for stroke patients, and may increase the effectiveness of other drugs. Borneol is also found in mint, rosemary, and mugwort.
