The word terpenes is often used in the cannabis world to explain how aromatic or tasty a cannabis bud is. There are over 150 different terpenes that we know about, and cannabis is one of the most terpene-rich plants that exists on the planet!
In this article, I will break down all you need to know about cannabis terpenes, what they are and why they are so important. Their close connection to cannabinoids and their effects, explaining the differences between the most common terpenes such as myrcene, caryophyllene, and linalool, and the entourage effect and the impact of terpenes.
A List of Cannabis Terpenes and Their Effects
The great thing about growing cannabis is that you can experience a massive range of aromas. Usually, we break a cannabis plant’s profile down into fruity, floral, earthy and gassy; however, this is a very basic analysis. Below is a list of the most commonly found terpenes in cannabis and their effects.
- Myrcene – Associated with a musky and earthy aroma and a deeply relaxing effect
- Limonene – A sharp citrus aroma that produces an upbeat and elevated mindset
- Pinene – Pine tree and woody aroma that enhances focus and creates clarity
- Caryophyllene – Spicy, musky and peppery, known for its therapeutic and pain relief
- Linalool – Floral and bright aroma, associated with a calming anti-anxiety effect
- Terpinolene – Fresh and herbal scent, produces an uplifting but sedative effect
- Humulene – Has a woody and hop aroma, and can help with stress and migraines
- Ocimene – Herbal and woody, with sweet overtones. Uplifting and energising
- Camphene – Earth and herbal aroma with a powerful antioxidant effect
Â
Cannabis Terpenes Explained: Why Terpenes in Weed Matter
The reason why terpenes are so essential when growing cannabis is that they are primarily responsible for producing the unique aroma and flavour profile of cannabis. Not only do terpenes play a vital role as far as aroma goes, but they also synthesize with cannabinoids to determine the effect when consuming.
Â
So, What Other Compounds Make the Cannabis Plant Special?
Cannabinoids are what cannabis plants produce during flower production. Inside the trichome head, the essential oils are produced and stored. There is a harmonious relationship between terpenes, cannabinoids and flavonoids. Below is a list of the most commonly known cannabinoids.
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
- Cannabidiol (CBD):
- Cannabinol (CBN):
- Cannabichromene (CBC)
- Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)
- 11-Hydroxy – THC
- Cannabidiolic acid (CBDA)
- Cannabichromenic acid (CBCA )
- Cannabigerol (CBG)
- Cannabicyclol (CBL)
- Cannabidivarin (CBDV)
Myrcene Terpene: Aroma, Role and Myrcene Terpene Effects
One of the most prevalent terpenes found in cannabis plants during chromatography lab testing is myrcene. This is the same terpene found in mangoes, lemongrass, and hops, and is strongly associated with the relaxing, sleepy, and sedating effects after consuming a joint. The aroma of myrcene can be described as earthy, musky, herbal and spicy. The flavour profile of myrcene is citrus, clove and balsam with mildly sweet overtones.
- Myrcene has a deeply relaxing and stress-relieving effect
- It can help with pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties
- Indica cannabis plants typically have high levels of myrcene
Â
Caryophyllene Terpene: Unique Properties and Caryophyllene Terpene Effects
Caryophyllene has a distinctive woody, spicy, musky and peppery aroma, with hints of fuel, gas and cinnamon. It is one of the terpenes that give plants an old-school, earthy profile. The flavour of caryophyllene is described as woody, spicy and sharp.
- This terpene has strong anti-inflammatory properties
- Also associated with pain relief
- Girl Scout Cookies and GG#4 are caryophyllene dominant
Â
Linalool Terpene Effects: Floral Notes and Potential Benefits
Found in lavender and mint, linalool is a strong, sharp, floral terpene. The aroma of linalool is described as spicy, citrusy, and floral, with sweet lavender tones. Cannabis that contains high levels of linalool often has a balanced flavour profile that is sweet, herbal, and floral.
- Linalool is known for having anti-anxiety and calming properties
- A heavy and sedative effect that can cause tiredness and couch lock
- Grandaddy Purple and Zkittles have tested for high levels of linalool
Â
How Terpenes and Cannabinoids Work Together In Harmony
Even though we associate cannabinoids with the reason why we experience a cerebral or physical body effect, terpenes are just as important and responsible. Cannabinoids and terpenes are synthesised together, and when combined harmoniously, they create the entourage effect.Â
This means that terpenes and cannabinoids depend on each other to create a specific effect. A good analogy is to compare how beneficial microorganisms create a harmonious relationship with cannabis plant roots.
Which Atami Nutrients Boost Terpene Production?
As growers, our goal is to produce the most aromatic and flavoursome weed possible, and we want it to be as good as the buds we willingly buy in a Dutch coffeeshop or a Spanish social club. Well, in that case, knowing what to feed your plants during the flowering period to enhance terpene production can pay off massively and benefit all home growers. To achieve the ultimate aroma and flavour, we recommend using the VGN veganic fertiliser line with our Janeco Light Mix soil substrate.
- VGN fertilisers are a plant-based nutrient range developed for veganic cultivation.
- Only derived and created using veganic plant-based products
- Significantly boosts the aroma and terpene profile of cannabis during flowering
- Feed the soil microbiology and allow the soil food web to thrive
- A chemical-free product that can be used with soil
Other Organic Methods To Boost Terpene Production
If you prefer to grow with a chemical-free nutrient line and keep your grow as organic and natural as possible, the three methods below will be perfect. Based on my experience, implementing the following organic inputs into your cannabis crops significantly enhances flavour, aroma, plant health and vitality as well as the soil food web.
Â
Aerated Organic Compost Teas
All you need to make aerated tea is an air stone, an air pump, a bucket, and a chlorine-free water source. You will start by filling the bucket with pH-adjusted water and allowing worm castings or freshly harvested compost to brew in a micron mesh bag. The tea must be aerated for 24 hours to promote the highest possible microbial and fungal count.
Worm Castings
Worms are a grower’s best friend, as they not only produce nutrient-rich, slow-release foods teeming with millions of beneficial bacteria but also aerate the soil as they crawl around. Worm castings, such as Worm Delight, are an amino acid-rich, slow-release fertiliser that can be applied as a top dressing every 7-14 days to help keep plants healthy and vibrant and increase terpene production.
My Conclusion
In the same way that every perfume has its own unique smell and characteristics, cannabis plants are the same. Terpenes are what give fruits, vegetables and cannabis their essence and without terpenes, cannabis plants would only comprise of cannabinoids. If you really want to enhance your terpenes, make sure your plants have access to organic inputs, such as the VGN line, or brew aerated tea at home!
