Skip to content
Search AI Powered

Latest Stories

Understanding Terpenes And Their Influence on Cannabis

This article is by Scott Mazza, COO and Co-Founder of Vitality CBD

Understanding Terpenes and Their Influence on Cannabis
Understanding Terpenes and Their Influence on Cannabis

This article is written by Scott Mazza, COO and Co-Founder of Vitality CBD.

There’s more to cannabis than meets the eye—or nose. Beyond the allure of its psychoactive properties, a deeper understanding of the plant is emerging, and it comes down to terpenes. 


These organic compounds, responsible for the distinctive aromas and flavors of cannabis, are now captivating the attention of researchers and enthusiasts alike. While terpenes have long been overshadowed by tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), new studies are shedding light on their pivotal role in the effect of cannabis.

Let’s delve into the world of terpenes, unravel their significance, and consider the secrets they hold for maximizing the plant’s potential.

So, What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are organic compounds found in a wide range of plants including cannabis. These aromatic elements are responsible for the distinctive scents and flavors associated with various plant species. In fact, isolated terpenes are commonly used in everyday products like perfumes and lotions to provide pleasant fragrances.

Within cannabis, terpenes play a crucial role in determining its unique smell and taste. As a result, terpenes also influence the flavor profile of cannabis varieties. Terpenes in cannabis – of which there are more than 100 – have recently garnered attention for their potential health benefits. Scientists are just starting to scratch the surface in explaining how terpenes provide anti-inflammatory, antifungal and anti-anxiety effects. 

Emerging findings indicate that the terpenes in cannabis operate synergistically with cannabinoids and flavonoids, resulting in the plant's therapeutic effects—a phenomenon commonly referred to as the "entourage effect." Individually, these components possess unique properties, but when combined, they create a harmonious and holistic impact that enhances the overall therapeutic potential of the plant. 

What The Science Says

Peer-reviewed research is now looking deeper into the role of terpenes – and the results are exciting. In a groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research, scientists unveiled compelling insights into the significance of terpenes in the medicinal effects of cannabis. The study marks the first confirmation that cannabis flower with higher levels of specific terpenes can deliver superior relief for patients.

The researchers identified more than 450 unique chemical combinations of cannabinoids and terpenes, termed "chemovars." Among these chemovars, the five most commonly consumed exhibited remarkable variations in their effectiveness for treating chronic pain, depression, and anxiety.

The findings revealed a notable improvement in symptom relief when patients consumed strains containing slightly elevated levels of terpenes such as myrcene and terpinolene. Notably, the study also revealed that two chemovars were associated with more specific and negative side effects compared to the other three chemovars.

These findings have far-reaching implications, challenging the arbitrary strain names and self-proclaimed product descriptions prevalent in cannabis. Instead, they show how distinct chemical combinations yield diverse patient outcomes. Further, the researchers propose that these findings could lay the foundation for the development of the world's first indexing system, facilitating the categorization of cannabis variants based on their chemical profiles.

Investigating the Secrets of Cannabis

Let’s hope this is just the beginning. With bigger sample sizes and longer-term studies, researchers will be able to better explain how specific chemovars impact cannabis experiences and health outcomes.

Nonetheless, the study's implications confirm what many have said for years: it's time to shift away from strain names with no scientific basis. Strain names were once employed as marketing tools by producers and retailers, but the evolution and hybridization of the plant have rendered these names irrelevant. Consequently, they offer consumers limited control over product selection, hindering their ability to pick and choose the right variant for their needs. Further research on terpenes and other cannabinoids in this context becomes crucial.

Especially as cannabis starts to enter the medical mainstream, comprehensive exploration of the plant is imperative. To this end, we must unravel the secrets of terpenes and how different chemical combinations impact user well-being. Through sustained research efforts, our industry can advance towards a more dependable indexing system that categorizes cannabis variants based on their chemical composition, fostering transparency and empowering consumers with greater control.

More For You

THCV's benefits are compelling, however people have a hard time finding high-THCV cannabis cultivars.
THCV's benefits are compelling, however people have a hard time finding high-THCV cannabis cultivars.
Photo by Sharon McCutcheon from Pexels

THCV Strains: The Ultimate Guide

THC and CBD are undoubtedly the two “star” cannabinoids almost everyone knows about. But the cannabis plant, with its complexity and rich spectrum, contains many more lesser-known chemicals. While researchers find something new every day, so far we know that the cannabis plant produces at least 80-100 cannabinoids%20and%20cannabidiol%20(CBD).)) and over 300 non-cannabinoid substances.

Cannabis research has been pivotal in uncovering the unique properties and potential benefits of THCV, distinguishing it from more well-known cannabinoids like THC and CBD.

Keep ReadingShow less
Weed Makes Me Antisocial: What To Do - The Bluntness

Weed Makes Me Antisocial: What To Do - The Bluntness

Weed Makes Me Antisocial: Help!

Many people can relate to the experience of “hitting a wall” socially. Introverts, you especially know what I mean. But when self-enforced isolation is weed-induced, does that mean it’s time to reconsider a few habits or routines? Maybe even take a break from weed entirely?

Cannabis has long been negatively associated with laziness and haziness, and although that isn’t always the case with cannabis consumers, it also isn’t that far off from the truth if you haven’t optimized your regimen. Marijuana use, in particular, has occasionally been linked to various mental health and behavioral effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, and antisocial behavior, while also being linked to alleviating these same symptoms. So it's important to understand how cannabis works with and for your body and needs.

Keep ReadingShow less
The Truth About THC Candle: Cannabis Candles & How to Make Your Own - The Bluntness

The Truth About THC Candle: Cannabis Candles & How to Make Your Own - The Bluntness

Cannabis Candle Facts & DIY

The Truth About THC Candle: Cannabis Candles & How to Make Your Own

There are several different ways to consume cannabis, and some of them don’t even involve actual consumption. Cannabis candles are beginning to take over the candle game, allowing cannabis enthusiasts to enjoy the smells they’re used to having to cover up and hide: the danky goodness of weed.

As cannabis becomes less stigmatized in modern culture, people are beginning to come out and admit to their cannabis use. While smoking weed used to be something people felt they had to keep on the down low, the culture is becoming increasingly mainstream and the scent is now sought after rather than condemned. Many cannabis candles feature complex scent profiles, including notes of amber, which contribute to a rich and layered aromatic experience.

Keep ReadingShow less
THC comes with more misconceptions than just about any other chemical compound.
THC comes with more misconceptions than just about any other chemical compound.

What is THC? Your In-Depth Guide

Cannabis is one of the most popular natural medicines and intoxicating substances in history. 

Well-known for its ability to produce a psychoactive “high”, the plant has earned a reputation for itself thanks for its ability to alter consciousness and promote a calm sense of wellness and wellbeing. 

Keep ReadingShow less
macro image of cured cannabis, gorilla glue strain close-up.
Gorilla Glue, aka GG4, aka Original Glue Strain

Gorilla Glue: GG4

Gorilla Glue #4, also known as GG4 or Original Glue, has earned its reputation as one of the most potent strains in the cannabis world. With THC levels often reaching as high as 28% under optimal growing conditions, this hybrid strain packs a powerful punch that can alleviate severe pain and offer a much-needed respite after a challenging workday.

Original Gorilla Glue has garnered significant acclaim within the cannabis community for its award-winning status and unique flavor profile, making it a standout choice among enthusiasts.

Keep ReadingShow less