Beginner Cannabis Guide: 6 Terpenes You Should Know
Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned herb connoisseur, you’re probably wondering how you can possibly make sense of the terpene profiles that you see at your local dispensary. Traditional herbs and essential oils used in folk healing create their effects largely due to terpenes. The crystal-like trichomes of cannabis plants contain terpenes along with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Together, cannabinoids and terpenes stimulate receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) in what is called the entourage effect.
Besides possessing therapeutic potentials, terpenes are responsible for the fragrance and taste of flowers and other plants, including cannabis. Not unlike the language used for wines, cannabis-lovers mention words like earthy, sweet, woody, even skunk, to refer to the smell and flavor of cannabis. Let’s take a look at six terpenes that every cannabis beginner should know.
1. Myrcene
Have you heard that you can make your THC buzz stronger if you eat a mango 40 minutes before lighting up? This effect is due to myrcene, which allows THC to pass the blood-brain barrier more easily. Indica-dominant strains like Kush and White Widow contain high concentrations of myrcene. Indicas are usually credited with creating the fabled “couch-lock” effect. Consumers seek high-myrcene…
