Education

Terpenes 101

It's not just about cannabinoids. These aromatic oils work in synergy to create the 'Entourage Effect'.

Laura Freeman

Laura Freeman

Founder & Farmer

If you've ever walked into a pine forest, peeled a fresh orange, or smelled a field of lavender, you've experienced terpenes.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the distinct scent and flavor of different hemp strains. But they do more than just smell good—they may play a key role in the plant's therapeutic effects.

Common Terpenes in Hemp

Here are a few you might find in our full-spectrum products:

1. Myrcene (The Relaxer)

  • Aroma: Earthy, musky, cloves.
  • Also found in: Mangoes, hops, thyme.
  • Potential Benefits: Known for its sedating and relaxing effects. It's the most common terpene in modern commercial cannabis.

2. Limonene (The Uplifter)

  • Aroma: Citrus, lemon, orange.
  • Also found in: Fruit rinds, juniper, peppermint.
  • Potential Benefits: Associated with elevated mood and stress relief.

3. Pinene (The Focuser)

  • Aroma: Pine needles, rosemary, basil.
  • Also found in: Conifer trees, parsley.
  • Potential Benefits: May help with alertness and memory retention, potentially countering the short-term memory loss associated with THC.

4. Linalool (The Soother)

  • Aroma: Floral, lavender, spice.
  • Also found in: Lavender, birch bark.
  • Potential Benefits: Widely used in aromatherapy for its calming and anti-anxiety properties.

The Entourage Effect

Terpenes don't just work alone. They interact with cannabinoids (like CBD and THC) to enhance or alter their effects. This synergy is called the Entourage Effect.

For example, a strain rich in Myrcene might make you feel sleepy, while a strain rich in Limonene might make you feel alert—even if they have the exact same amount of CBD.

Pro Tip: Your nose knows best. If a hemp product smells appealing to you, it might contain the terpenes your body needs.

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