Medical Marijuana has become increasingly popular over the years and is still something we’re always learning more about. At CannaLeaf Health, we’re experts on everything cannabis, including the compounds that make it up. Today we wanted to talk about one of the most common compounds found in cannabis, terpenes.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found not only in cannabis but also many different kinds of plants. They are what give different strains of cannabis their unique smells. Nearly all plants contain terpenes, but they are most commonly found in cannabis, citrus fruits, and aromatic herbs such as sage.
What Do Terpenes Do?
More research is required to fully understand the precise functions of terpenes, although it is widely believed that they play a crucial role in protecting plants from predators and harsh weather conditions. In cannabis, it is believed that different strains have varying dominant terpenes which work with the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and the CBD (cannabidiol) and other cannabinoids. This is why the effects people report from consuming cannabis can differ depending on the strain used.
Some Common Terpenes
There are hundreds of different terpenes that have been identified in cannabis, and those are just the ones that have been identified so far. The strain of cannabis you have will determine your terpene profile, but these are some of the terpenes found in the most common medical marijuana strains:
- Myrcene – Likely the most commonly found terpene in cannabis, myrcene is known for its earthy smell. It commonly produces effects of stress relief, pain reduction, anti-anxiety and general relaxation.
- Pinene – Named for the fact that it smells like a pine tree, pinene terpenes are one of the most common occurring terpenes on the planet. In cannabis, it often offers improved focus, an increase in energy, and a reduction in pain.
- Linalool – Linalool terpenes give off a lavender-esque aroma, and are most found in cannabis, birchwood, tomatoes, and coriander. Users of a strain containing linalool can expect muscle relaxation, stress relief, and antiepileptic and antidepressant properties.
Choose the Right Strain for You
There are so many different strains of cannabis, each of them having a unique terpene profile. Trying to find the right one for you can be a little overwhelming. First off, you should remember there is no “right strain”. In fact, most users of medical marijuana have several different favorite strains. To learn more about a strain, you should consult with a medical marijuana professional. Additionally, keep in mind that the best way to find a favorite strain is to try different ones and see what you like!
Learn More From an Experienced Medical Cannabis Professional
Are you interested in learning more about cannabis or the terpenes inside of them? Our understanding of how terpenes function, and of how cannabis affects humans as a whole, is constantly evolving. If you’d like to learn more, or if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us. At CannaLeaf Health we have years of experience offering people our medical cannabis insights, we’d be more than happy to hear from you!
