Terpene Profile
Category: Scientific · Level: Intermediate
A terpene profile is the specific combination and concentration of terpenes present in a cannabis cultivar, used to characterize its aroma, flavor, and potential effects.
The terpene profile of a cannabis product describes all identified terpenes and their relative concentrations, typically expressed as percentages by weight. Major terpenes include myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene, linalool, pinene, and terpinolene. Laboratory terpene analysis using gas chromatography is required for full profiling. Terpene profiles are increasingly used as a more scientifically meaningful classification system than the traditional indica/sativa taxonomy. In clinical settings, specific terpene profiles are hypothesized to modulate the effects of cannabinoids (entourage effect). Regulated cannabis products are required to publish terpene profiles in some jurisdictions.
Also known as
Terp profile, Terpene panel
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.
- Entourage Effect — The entourage effect is the proposed synergistic interaction between cannabinoids, terpenes, and other cannabis compounds that may enhance overall therapeutic effects.
- Terpene — Terpenes are aromatic organic compounds produced by cannabis and many other plants, responsible for distinct flavors and scents, and potentially contributing to therapeutic effects.
- COA — A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document from an accredited laboratory confirming the composition, potency, and safety of a cannabis product.