Section 5.2: Common Cannabis Terpenes and Their Effects
Cannabis contains numerous terpenes, each with its own unique properties and potential effects. Understanding these common terpenes helps consumers make more informed choices about their cannabis products.[1]
Important Notice
Individual responses to terpenes can vary significantly. Always start with products containing lower terpene concentrations and monitor your personal response.[2]
Primary Cannabis Terpenes
Myrcene[3]
- Aroma: Earthy, musky, clove-like
- Also found in: Mangoes, hops, thyme
- Potential effects: Relaxing, sedating
- Common in: Indica-dominant strains
Limonene[4]
- Aroma: Citrus, orange, lemon
- Also found in: Citrus fruit peels
- Potential effects: Mood elevation, stress relief
- Common in: Sativa-dominant strains
Pinene[5]
- Aroma: Pine, forest, fresh
- Also found in: Pine needles, rosemary
- Potential effects: Mental alertness, memory enhancement
- Common in: Both indica and sativa strains
Secondary Cannabis Terpenes
Linalool[6]
- Aroma: Floral, lavender
- Also found in: Lavender, birch bark
- Potential effects: Calming, anxiety-reducing
- Common in: Relaxing strains
Caryophyllene[7]
- Aroma: Peppery, spicy, woody
- Also found in: Black pepper, cloves
- Potential effects: Anti-inflammatory, pain relief
- Common in: Various therapeutic strains
Terpinolene[8]
- Aroma: Piney, floral, herbal
- Also found in: Sage, rosemary
- Potential effects: Uplifting, energizing
- Common in: Sativa-dominant strains
Terpene Profiles and Effects
Energizing Profiles[9]
- High in limonene and pinene
- Often contains terpinolene
- May include beta-caryophyllene
- Common in daytime-use strains
Relaxing Profiles[9]
- High in myrcene
- Often contains linalool
- May include humulene
- Common in evening-use strains
Identifying Terpene Content
Product Testing[10]
- Laboratory analysis reports
- Terpene profile certificates
- Concentration percentages
- Batch-specific information
Sensory Evaluation[11]
- Aroma assessment
- Flavor profiles
- Visual indicators
- Product freshness
Section Summary
Understanding the common terpenes in cannabis and their effects helps consumers choose products that better align with their desired outcomes. The next section will explore important safety considerations when using terpene-rich products.[12]
Citations & References
Note: These citations are provided for transparency and further reading. Each reference has been carefully selected to provide accurate, scientifically-backed information about cannabis terpenes and their effects.
Course References
- Module 5.1: Introduction to Cannabis Terpenes
- Module 4.2: Individual Sensitivity Factors
- Module 5.3: Detailed Terpene Analysis - Myrcene
- Module 5.3: Detailed Terpene Analysis - Limonene
- Module 5.3: Detailed Terpene Analysis - Pinene
- Module 5.3: Detailed Terpene Analysis - Linalool
- Module 5.3: Detailed Terpene Analysis - Caryophyllene
- Module 5.3: Detailed Terpene Analysis - Terpinolene
- Module 5.4: Terpene Profile Combinations
- Module 3.1: Understanding Laboratory Test Results
- Module 3.2: Product Quality Assessment
- Module 5.3: Safety Considerations for Terpene-Rich Products
External References
- The Cannabis Terpenes: Their Properties and Effects Comprehensive research on cannabis terpene properties and their potential therapeutic effects.
- Terpene Biosynthesis and Regulation in Cannabis Scientific analysis of terpene formation and regulation in cannabis plants.