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What are Terpenes?

Why is it that cannabis can sometimes smell like a garden of flowers and other times it smells like diesel or fuel? The answer is terpenes. Terpenes are naturally occurring aromatic compounds produced by plants that are responsible for the plants’ aroma.

Flowers, fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices all contain different terpenes. Plants produce them to communicate with the world around them. Some terpenes attract pollinators while others can help deter pests. Plants defend themselves from bacteria and fungi that can cause disease with terpenes that have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. These natural compounds are an important part of the relationship between plants, animals, and humans.

Effects of Terpenes on the Body

We interact with terpenes daily in the air we breathe, and they are not just something we smell. Terpenes can enter our blood stream from the vessels in our noses and can be ingested into our bodies through food and beverages. In many cases, they interact with our bodies in ways that give us therapeutic benefits. Some terpenes can be irritating or cause allergic reactions, and some can be toxic when ingested in high concentrations. Every plant has different concentrations of terpenes that can have varying effects on the body. We inhale and consume terpenes every day, and we may benefit from them without even realizing it.

Research on the therapeutic benefits of terpenes is still ongoing, but the evidence from the studies that have been conducted show a lot of promise. Some of the therapeutic benefits may be subtle, but over time, they can have substantial impacts on your health. Many terpenes have anti-inflammatory, ant-microbial, and anti-cancer properties. Some can have sedating effects and some have energizing effects on the body. Studies have found that some terpenes can help with anxiety and depression. Some terpenes have also been shown to help improve memory.

There are hundreds of terpenes found in nature, and there are around 20 that commonly appear in cannabis. Every strain of cannabis has a different combination of terpenes which gives each strain its unique aroma. All our flower gets tested for terpenes at a third-party lab so you will know what terpenes are in each strain. We list the terpenes for each strain on our menu and we have a terpene quick guide on the back of our strain guide.

Close up of our beautiful LA Kush Cake cannabis flower.
LA Kush Cake

Want to Learn More About Terpenes in Cannabis?

For more information about some of the terpenes found in cannabis, click on the buttons below.

Disclaimer: This is an educational document and is not intended to be taken as medical advice. Please consult your medical provider if you have questions related to your healthcare.

Updated August 10, 2023

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