Acerca de
ter·pene
/ˈtərpēn/
noun
CHEMISTRY
-
any of a large group of volatile unsaturated hydrocarbons found in the essential oils of plants, especially conifers and citrus trees.
Over the last decade, terpene research and associated effects on the cannabis experience has grown exponentially, to the point where consumers are beginning to regard them just as importantly as taste. The olfactory experience of cannabis, from bag appeal to exhale, has always been key, but isolating specific terpenes, and how they drive the consumer experience, is finally getting the attention it deserves. Science has identified over 20,000 terpenes in nature, but only about 400 of them can be found in cannabis. Here are 12 of the most common cannabis terpenes, along with their origins, medical benefits, and the LightSky Farms cultivars that showcase them.
TERPENES 101
MOST COMMON CANNABIS TERPENES
BISABOLOL
Most commonly derived from the chamomile plant, and known for its pleasant, sweet and floral aroma, Bisabolol is found in many cannabis strains. Hence, it is also one of the main components in chamomile essential oil. Found in many skincare products, Bisabolol’s soothing and relaxing properties have been used for centuries as a balm or topical. In cannabis, the terpene’s calming effects trigger an immediate olfactory sensation, similar to aromatherapy.
Try these cultivars: Gorilla Puff, Mandarin Cookies, GMO
CARYOPHYLLENE
With its peppery, spicy and woody aroma, this is the only terpene proven to interact with the endocannabinoid system (CB2) in our bodies. It is also prominent in basil, oregano, pepper and cinnamon. Research and testimonials suggest it can act as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-spasmodic, anti-anxiety, antidepressant and sleep aid.
Try these cultivars: Ice Cream Cake, Electric Lemon G, GG4
GERANIOL
A floral terpene, Geraniol has an intoxicating sweet smell, similar to roses. It can be found in the geraniums in your garden, along with lemons, perfumes and other cosmetics. It is also an effective, natural mosquito repellant. Research and testimonials suggest Geraniol can act as a neuroprotective, anti-fungal, and anti-tumor.
Try these cultivars: Electric Lemon G, Mimosa
HUMULENE
A strong contributor to the tell-tale “earthy” aroma of cannabis, Humulene is also present in hops, coriander, sage, and cloves. Humulene is critical in cannabis's aromatic profile, but it usually occurs in smaller quantities, rather than as a predominant fragrance. Think of it as an undertone that fills the palate with earthy nuances a few seconds after exhaling. Research and testimonials suggest it can act as a potent anti-inflammatory with anti-cancer attributes.
Try these cultivars: Peanut Butter Breath, Ice Cream Cake, Electric Lemon G
LIMONENE
The second most common terpene found in nature, it is known for its distinctive citrus aroma. You can find it in citrus fruit rinds (lemons, oranges, and grapefruit), along with botanicals including juniper, mint, and rosemary. Limonene has a unique ability to quicken the absorption of other terpenes in the body, and research suggests it can act as an antixiolytic, antidepressant, antifungal, and aid gastroesophageal reflux.
Try these cultivars: White Truffle, GMO, Mimosa
LINALOOL
A floral terpene, Linalool is sharply reminiscent of sweet wildflowers. In nature, it can be found in lavender, laurel, birch and rosewood. It is known for its calming and sedative properties, and as a natural relief for anxiety. Research and testimonials speak of its medical value as an analgesic, anti-epileptic, and antidepressant.
Try these cultivars: Handlebar, Do-Si-Dos, Moose Cookies
MYRCENE
Earthy and musky, but with notes of sweet fruit, Myrcene is prevalent is most all cultivars of cannabis. It is found in mango, hops, thyme and citrus, and has been noted for its sedating effects. Research and testimonials promote Myrcene as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and neuroprotective.
Try these cultivars: Garlic Snake Breath, GG4, Ghee Butter
OCIMENE
Found in a wide variety of botanicals, ocimene is renowned for its sweet and woody scene. Plants use ocimene to defend themselves against pests in nature. It is also found in mint, parsley, pepper, basil, orchids and kumquats. Research and testimonials suggest it as a potent antifungal, anticonvulsant and anti-tumor.
Try these cultivars: Electric Lemon G, Mimosa, Mandarin Cookies
PINENE
The most common naturally occurring terpene, α-Pinene is a main contributor to the piney aroma in cannabis. In nature, it is found in many conifer species, and herbs including sage. It is renowned as a natural enhancement of memory and alertness. Research and testimonials speak of the terpenes myriad medical values, including its use as an anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator, and antibiotic.
Try these cultivars: Gorilla Puff, Peanut Butter Breath, Indiana Bubble Gum
TERPINEOL
With its invigorating, floral bouquet of lilac and flower blossoms, terpineol has long been associated with the production of soap. It has also been revered for its relaxing effects, and associated with pain relief. Research and testimonials have noted it as a potent antibacterial, along with easing anxiety, an immunostimulant and analgesic.
Try these cultivars: GMO Cookies, Do-Si-Dos, Electric Peanut Butter Cookie
TERPINOLENE
An intoxicating mix of pine with notes of herbs and wildflower, this terpene is often used in perfumes and as a natural insect repellant. It is also found in rosemary, sage and Monterey cypress. Research and testimonials note it as a sedative (when isolated), and stimulant (when paired with THC).
Try these cultivars: Electric Lemon G, Mimosa, Bombshell
VALENCENE
With its citrusy sweet aroma, Valencene is also found in grapefruits, tangerines, oranges and a variety of herbs. It is common in many cannabis cultivars, and, like several other terpenes we’ve explored, is a powerful tick and mosquito repellant. Research and testimonials have shown Valencene to have a variety of medicinal benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and anti-allergic effects, and also acts as a bronchodilator. Valencene shows potential to fight damage made to the skin due to sun exposure, and may boost the efficacy of a chemotherapy drug called doxorubicin.
Try these cultivars: Tropicana Trap, Electric Lemon G, Mango Sapphire