Terpenes like limonene are flavorants and aromatics found in the cannabis plant. Many cannabis connoisseurs have heard about this term, but are unsure why they are so important. Here’s everything you should know about limonene and how terpenes can actually shape the cannabis experience.
Understanding Terpenes
Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They are produced and stored in trichomes, which are found in female cannabis plants. Their main purpose is to be aromatics and flavorants, giving cannabis its signature taste and smell. Cannabis aroma and flavor are determined by the overall terpene profile, which can vary depending on the dominating terpene.
Different types of terpenes
The number of terpenes found across a variety of plants is estimated to be in the tens of thousands. On the other hand, there are over 200 different kinds of terpenes that can be found in cannabis, some being more abundant than others, depending on the cannabis genetics.
The most popular terpenes and their signature aromas include:
- Pinene (crisp, woody, pine-like aroma)
- Linalool (floral, herbal aroma)
- Myrcene (musky, earthy, and sometimes exotic aroma)
- Humulene (earthy or woody aroma)
- Caryophyllene (woody or spicy aroma)
Limonene
Limonene is present in citrus fruit peels, pines, junipers, mint, fennel, and others. It is also one of the most abundant terpenes found in many cannabis strains. It got its name due to having a flavor profile that resembles citrus fruits like lemons and oranges. Limonene has zesty, citrusy, bitter-sweet notes, which are popular for essential oils, solvents, cosmetics and beauty products, household cleaning products, natural pesticides, foods, and beverages, as well as cannabis products.
Cannabis connoisseurs report limonene-rich cannabis as having mood-boosting and uplifting effects, but individual experiences can vary depending on other factors (overall cannabinoid and terpene content, dosage, and personal tolerance to cannabis).
There is a wide range of popular cannabis strains high in limonene, including:
- Banana OG (hybrid)
- Super Lemon Haze (sativa-dominant hybrid)
- Wedding Cake (indica-dominant hybrid)
- Cinex (sativa-dominant hybrid)
- White Fire OG (hybrid)
- Do-Si-Dos (indica-dominant hybrid)
- Purple Hindu Kush (indica)
- Strawberry Banana (indica-dominant hybrid)
- Black Cherry Soda (hybrid)
The Entourage Effect Between Terpenes and Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids and terpenes are both naturally occurring chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD are known for producing effects of cannabis (THC being the primary psychoactive cannabinoid causing the ”high” effect), but it’s theorized that terpenes can also contribute in their own way. A full-spectrum THC (with other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids) and isolated THC can potentially differ in effects. The so-called entourage effect can occur when certain terpenes and cannabinoids are paired together. They can potentially work in synergy to enhance and alter the overall effects of cannabis. This phenomenon is still being researched and studied.
It’s important to note that many things play a role in cannabis effects, including cannabinoid and terpene profiles, dosage, personal tolerance to cannabis, and many other factors.
Ongoing Research
Limonene, with its potential benefits such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties, is still being studied and researched in practice. So far, the primary purpose of limonene is to be an aromatic and flavorant.
Cannabis is a complex plant with a variety of elements contributing to its uniqueness, shaped by its genetics. Terepenes are one of the core elements that can truly transform a cannabis product and make it special, catering to various tastes. Understanding how a terpene like limonene can impact the overall experience can lead to making easier choices when shopping! Find your nearest dispensary and get familiar with the wide selection of cannabis products that fit your potency and flavor preferences.