Understanding The Flavor And Aroma Of Cannabis

Terpene Profiles: Flavor and Aroma in Cannabis

The smell of a few marijuana strains can make you smile, boost your mood, and relax your mind. But, the aroma of others can wrinkle your nose. So, have you ever thought about what gives cannabis that characteristic aroma?  

Terpenes are volatile organic compounds that give a distinctive aroma, flavor, appearance, and specific therapeutic properties to cannabis. And, today we are going to tell you more about these magical compounds, their types, and their effects on the specific characteristics of cannabis. So, keep on reading! 

What Are Cannabis Terpenes?

Terpenes are organic compounds and a crucial component of essential oils. These compounds are mainly derived from plants (cannabis, herbs, and teas) but are also a crucial component of animal bodies (feathers and fish scales).  

A unique combo of terpenes gives the plants a specific flavor, color, and taste. Besides that, the compounds also attract the insects for pollination and protect the plants from predators. In addition, terpenes also have therapeutic properties. 

The terpenes found in cannabis are similar to the compounds found in CBD and THC and have various medicinal and mood-altering effects.  

What Are The Types Of Cannabis Terpenes?

Cannabis is divided into two categories: Sativa and Indica. Both offer you a unique aroma and taste due to the type of terpenes they have. There are more than 150 types of terpenes that can be present in cannabis. Many of these are present in trace amounts. 

The cannabis terpenes are divided into two categories, i.e., primary and secondary. The primary terpenes decide the plant’s taste, appearance, and aroma. The secondary terpenes enhance the effect of the primary terpenes. 

Primary terpenes 

Below are the different types of primary terpenes:

• Pinene: It gives a piney aroma and is present in OG Kush, Blue Dream, and Haze Berry. 

• Limonene: The terpene gives a citrusy aroma to the plant. It is present in Wedding Cake, Berry White, and Quantum Kush. 

• Humulene: It is another terpene present in cannabis and gives a woodsy, outdoorsy, bitter, and floral smell to the cannabis. Gelato, Sour Diesel, and Atlantis are three different cannabis strains that contain this compound. 

• Myrcene: It is present in most cannabis strains and gives an earthly, spicy, herbaceous, and musky aroma to the plant. The compound also relaxes the body. 

Secondary terpenes 

Here are the secondary terpenes: 

• Borneol: It has a minty aroma and is present in Golden haze, Amnesia Haze, and K13-Haze. 

•  Sabinene: It is one of the most common terpenes and gives the plants a spicy or peppery aroma. The terpene is present in Super Silver Haze. 

• Phytol: It is present in Blue Dream and Sour Diesel. The compound gives a floral aroma to the plant. 

Function Of Terpenes In Cannabis 

The terpenes are known for their aromatic properties, giving a specific, unique aroma (fruity, floral, or citrusy) to different cannabis strains. Therefore, the presence of specific types of terpenes changes the overall flavor and scent of the cannabis strain. For instance, Caryophyllene gives a peppery aroma to the cannabis. 

These organic compounds can also enrich the color of the leaves and buds and give a distinctive flavor to the cannabis. Therefore, saying that terpenes enhance the plant’s attractiveness by improving its flavor and aroma will not be wrong. 

Different cannabis strains have different flavors and aromas due to their distinct terpene profiles. Therefore, when selecting a strain for cultivation, choose the one with the desired taste and aroma. 

Conclusion 

Cannabis is a complex and unique plant with rich and diverse compounds that give it a specific aroma, flavor, and effect. One of these compounds is terpenes, which give aroma and flavor to cannabis. An understanding of the terpenes helps the cultivators maximize the flavor and aroma of the cannabis!