When it comes to the world of cannabis, there’s more to explore than cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Have you ever noticed how different cannabis strains have distinct aromas and flavors? These unique qualities come from compounds called terpenes.
At Triverity Analytical, we believe in shedding light on the lesser-known aspects of the cannabis plant, and we’re excited to take a deeper dive into terpenes—one of nature’s most fascinating contributions to cannabis.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are organic compounds found throughout the plant kingdom. They’re abundant in herbs, fruits, and even trees, playing an essential role in how plants smell and taste. In cannabis, terpenes are responsible for the variety of aromas you may notice, from sweet citrus and fruity berry to piney or earthy undertones.
Think of terpenes as the “essential oils” of the cannabis plant. These aromatic compounds contribute to each strain’s unique profile, allowing for a more customized experience based on individual preferences.
Common Terpenes in Cannabis and Their Aromas
Through our testing services, we identify a range of terpenes in each strain. Here are a few commonly found terpenes and what you might notice in their aroma:
Myrcene: Earthy and musky, myrcene is also found in thyme and hops. It often gives cannabis a “skunky” or herbal scent.
Limonene: Known for its bright citrus scent, limonene adds a refreshing, zesty note to strains and is commonly found in citrus fruits.
Pinene: With a fresh pine aroma, pinene brings a crisp, forest-like scent, found naturally in pine needles and rosemary.
Linalool: This floral, lavender-like aroma softens strain profiles with its calming, flower-like scent.
β-Caryophyllene: A spicy, peppery aroma found in black pepper and cloves; unique for its ability to interact with cannabinoid receptors.
Humulene: An earthy, woody aroma with subtle spice, commonly found in hops and adding depth to cannabis profiles.
α-Bisabolol: Lightly floral with a hint of sweetness, similar to chamomile, lending a gentle, honeyed note to strains.
Each strain has a unique terpene profile, creating an array of sensory experiences. Our testing results reveal these profiles, allowing cultivators, producers, and consumers to better understand and appreciate the qualities of each strain.
The Entourage Effect in Cannabis
Cannabis is a complex plant with hundreds of compounds, including cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and terpenes. While these compounds each bring their own properties, they don’t necessarily work alone. In fact, many researchers and enthusiasts believe in the entourage effect—a theory suggesting that these compounds may interact to create a more enhanced experience when combined.
The entourage effect highlights the idea that cannabinoids and terpenes work synergistically, meaning their combined impact could be different from the effects of each compound alone. For example, a strain with both myrcene and THC might produce a different experience than a strain with the same THC level but no myrcene. The unique mix of cannabinoids, terpenes, and even lesser-known compounds contributes to each strain's overall profile.
Why Terpene Testing Matters
Terpenes offer a new layer of insight into cannabis beyond cannabinoids alone. We conduct terpene testing to support cultivators and producers who want to provide clear, reliable information about their products. This data empowers consumers to select strains that match their preferences, whether they're drawn to specific aromas or want to explore different profiles.
Triverity Analytical offers comprehensive cannabinoid and terpene testing to support a full-spectrum understanding of each strain. Our advanced testing can identify up to 18 different terpenes, providing a detailed profile that allows cultivators and producers to highlight the unique characteristics of their products.
Comments