The cannabis plant contains a wide range of compounds, called cannabinoids. Besides cannabinoids, here are also fragrant organic compounds called terpenes, along with flavonoids. What are terpenes? And why do these compounds matter? In this post, let’s talk more on terpenes and aspects worth knowing.
Understanding the entourage effect
Terpenes can be compared with essential oils of other plants, and researchers now believe that the effects of terpenes could extend beyond the flavor that people associate with cannabinoids. This is exactly where the relevance of entourage effect comes in the picture. Each cannabis strain is different. For example, sativa and sativa-dominant hybrids give a more energetic high, while Indica strains are more relaxing. Basically, THC may work differently in a human body based on the terpenes included in the strain, and that’s what the entourage effect is all about. Terpenes can, in fact, change the way our body processes THC, and in some cases, it can enhance the effects of THC. This is the precise reason why full-spectrum cannabis products are popular, because these contain terpenes.
Things to know
It is important to understand that more than 100 terpenes are known, and each strain can have a mix that’s hard to predict. For example, two strains may have the same terpenes, but the ratio of these organic compounds may not be the same, and therefore, the effects of both strains can be really different. Some of the popular terpenes include Humulene, Limonene, Terpinolene, Myrcene, Linalool, and Pinene. You may want to check online and read up on these compounds to find additional details on how each terpene works and the effect it can have on the strain.
Buying strains rich in terpenes
There are many dispensaries that sell premium cannabis rich in terpenes, and you can talk to the budtenders to know what works for you. There are various steps that many producers take to save and preserve the terpene profile of a strain, because heating may cause vaporization. Knowing the terpenoid profile of the strain is necessary, and therefore, select a dispensary that has experienced and known sales people and budtenders, so that you can make a choice accordingly. Cannabis is always better with the entourage effect, and even if you have been using THC-based products for the longest time, try a strain with improved terpenoid profile to know the difference.
Terpenes and flavonoids can take your marijuana experience to the next level!
