Terpene
Category: Scientific · Level: Intermediate
Terpenes are aromatic organic compounds produced by cannabis and many other plants, responsible for distinct flavors and scents, and potentially contributing to therapeutic effects.
Terpenes are a large and diverse class of organic compounds produced as secondary metabolites in cannabis trichomes. Over 200 terpenes have been identified in cannabis. They are responsible for the characteristic aroma profiles of different cultivars — for example, myrcene produces earthy-musky notes, limonene produces citrus, and pinene produces pine. Terpenes are studied for their potential pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and antimicrobial properties. The 'entourage effect' hypothesis suggests terpenes may modulate or enhance the effects of cannabinoids synergistically.
Also known as
Terpenoids
Usage
- Medical
- Recreational
- Industrial
Related terms
- Cultivar — A cultivar is a plant variety that has been selectively bred and maintained to exhibit consistent, reproducible characteristics.
- Phenotype — Phenotype refers to the observable physical and chemical characteristics of a cannabis plant that result from the interaction of its genetics (genotype) with the environment.
- Entourage Effect — The entourage effect is the proposed synergistic interaction between cannabinoids, terpenes, and other cannabis compounds that may enhance overall therapeutic effects.
- Full-Spectrum — Full-spectrum cannabis extract contains all naturally occurring cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds, including trace amounts of THC.
- Cannabinoid — Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that interact with the endocannabinoid system, found naturally in cannabis or produced synthetically.