Guide to Cannabis Consumption

What are Terpenes?

Key Summary:

• Terpenes are organic compounds in cannabis that produce the plant’s distinctive aroma and flavor.
• They serve to protect the plant from predators and attract pollinators.
• Terpenes do not directly cause a high, but they interact with other compounds in the plant to enhance or modify its effects.
• Different terpenes have different effects and aromas, and understanding these differences can help you choose the right strain for your needs.

Cannabis plants have a distinctive aroma, and the reason for this is due to the presence of terpenes. Terpenes are organic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis, that are responsible for their unique aroma and flavor. In this article, we will explore the topic of cannabis terpenes and answer some of the most commonly asked questions about these important compounds.

Why do cannabis plants smell?

Cannabis plants produce terpenes as a way to protect themselves from predators and to attract pollinators. The aroma of the terpenes acts as a warning to predators and as a signal to pollinators that the plant is ready for reproduction.

Why does cannabis produce terpenes?

Cannabis produces terpenes as a way to protect itself from predators and to attract pollinators. Terpenes also play a role in the plant’s natural defense system, providing protection from insects, bacteria, and other potential threats.

Do terpenes get you high?

Terpenes do not directly cause a “high”, as they are not psychoactive compounds like THC or CBD. However, they do interact with the other compounds in cannabis to enhance or modify the effects of the plant. This is known as the “entourage effect”.

Do different terpenes have different effects?

Yes, different terpenes have different effects and interact with the other compounds in the plant in different ways. For example, some terpenes are known for their relaxing properties, while others are known for their energizing effects. Different terpenes also have different aromas and flavors, which can enhance the overall experience of consuming cannabis.

In conclusion, cannabis terpenes are important organic compounds that play a key role in the aroma, flavor, and effects of the plant. While they do not directly cause a high, they interact with the other compounds in the plant to enhance or modify the effects of the plant. Different terpenes have different effects and aromas, and understanding these differences can help you choose the right cannabis strain for your needs.