Can terpenes predict the effects of cannabis?

The terpenes are a wide variety of hydrocarbons produced by plants and some insects. In the cannabis industry, they are the source of a variety's aromas and odors. For example, terpenes modulate the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids, particularly those of the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Like cannabinoids, terpenes bind to receptors in the brain, giving rise to a variety of effects.

Most cannabis users will want to know what they can get away with. differences in effects between indica and sativa cannabis. But while the latter two make it easier to classify cannabis varieties, the terpene type present in each cannabis strain will give your body information on how the high will work. For example, indica strains generally smell stronger because they have 16 % more terpenes than sativa strains.

Myrcene, a terpene found in mango, intensifies the effects of the fruit.

Mango and cannabis contain the same terpenes, called myrcene. This terpene comes in the form of a yellowish liquid that is flammable and has a musky, very fruity and pleasant odor. This terpene is used notably in perfume production. This is why eat a mango about thirty minutes before consuming cannabis will increase the effects of cannabis. Scientists have shown that myrcene makes cell membranes more permeable to cannabinoids. Finally, mango is ideal for «foncedalle», as it aids digestion.

Hops, a plant used to make beer, contain myrcene

The myrcene is a terpene found in beer, as these terpenes are found in hops. 50% strains containing it will give you an indica, as it has sedative properties. In other words, if cannabis smells like beer, smoking this strain will give you desire to doze off.

The limonene on the other hand, is affiliated with the sativa varieties, with a lemony aroma. Its properties are anti-inflammatory, energizing and improve stress and mood. The famous Super Lemon Haze variety takes its name from the lemon scent produced by limonene.

Kymron de Cesare, Head of Laboratories Steep Hill in California likes to say that «the terms «sativa» and «indica» are only valid for describing the physical characteristics of a cannabis variety in a given environment. They are not as reliable for determining assumptions about sativa strains, which often provide a high. high and on the indica that produce stone body.»

Other terpenes, such as pinene will exacerbate the concentration while linalool (which can be found in lavender) will accentuate the relaxation and has anti-anxiety properties.

Mehdi Bautier