Confused about terpenes? Wish you knew what a dispensary does and does not offer?
In this guide, we cover all of the definitions needed to help you understand recreational marijuana, cannabis terpenes and more.
You can find terpenes in plants and some animals. They are naturally occurring chemical compounds that are responsible for aromas, flavors and colors. In the cannabis world, terpenes are what give different strains their smell and taste and help drive the effects felt.
Learn More on Cannabis TerpenesCannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the Cannabis plant. There are over 480 compounds in the plant, however only around 66 are termed cannabinoids. THC is the most well-known among these compounds, the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. CBD makes up around 40% of the plant resin extract.
Cannabis concentrates are extracts that contain very high levels of cannabinoids and terpenes. This results in more impactful and flavorsome and aromatic compounds. They can be sold in waxes, sugars and other cannabis concentrates that showcase the purest dabbing experiences on offer.
Cannabis ConcentratesCaryophyllene is a terpene that gives black pepper is spiciness and it's a major component of cloves, hops, rosemary, and cannabis. In cannabis, caryophyllene is most known for providing some pain relieving properties to the body for some individuals as it doesn't have psychoactive properties and only binds to body receptors. Caryophyllene was one of first terpenes that was found to bind directly to endocannabinoid receptors (much like THC and CBD).
Cannabis CaryophylleneCannabidiol or CBD as it is better known, is a chemical found in marijuana. There is no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in CBD. THC is the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana that produces a high.CBD is increasingly found in different forms, but the most common is CBD oil. It is also sold as an extract, a vaporized liquid and an oil-based capsule. CBD is credited with helping medical symptoms such as Parkinson's, arthritis and anxiety.
Dabbing cannabis involves the consumption of highly concentrated cannabis extracts, often referred to as "dabs." These extracts are made using solvents, such as butane or CO2, to extract the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from the cannabis plant. The resulting concentrate is then heated on a hot surface, such as a nail or a banger, and the vapor is inhaled through a specialized dab rig or vaporizer. Terpene Journey stocks a whole line of dabbing accessories to get you started.
Dabbing can provide a more potent and immediate effect compared to smoking traditional flower or consuming edibles. However, due to the high concentration of cannabinoids, dabbing can also lead to an increased risk of tolerance, dependence, and adverse effects, such as anxiety and paranoia. It is important to use dabbing products responsibly and with caution, especially for those who are new to cannabis or have a low tolerance.
Grinders are the tool of choice to get finely ground cannabis for a more even burn experience in bowls or when you roll your own joints with cannabis flower. The device uses a twist mechanism to cut the cannabis flower. The ground flower falls into a separate chamber that can be opened and enjoyed.
Hemp is a specific type of cannabis and while in the same family as marijuana (or cannabis), hemp plants contain very low amounts of the psychoactive ingredient found in cannabis (THC). Hemp is often used in industrial ways – clothing is one common example. Terpene Journey carries a separate category of hemp-derived products.
Humulene is a terpene that is commonly found in cannabis as well as other plants such as hops, sage, and ginseng. It is characterized by its earthy, woody aroma with spicy and herbal notes. In cannabis, humulene is typically found in low concentrations but can have a significant impact on the overall scent and flavor of a strain.
Humulene is not typically known for its stimulating effects on energy levels in cannabis. It can equally contribute to stimulating or calming effects, dependent on what the other terpenes are in the entourage effect. Thus, it's considered a truly balancing terpene. Humulene has also shown some impact in blunting the voracious appetite (colloquially known as the "munchies") that can occur in many cannabis strains.
Limonene is a terpene commonly found in cannabis and other plants. It has a distinct citrus aroma and is used in various industries for its refreshing scent.
In cannabis, limonene is known for its potential therapeutic properties, including its ability to reduce stress and elevate mood. It may also have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer effects. Some research suggests that limonene may even help improve the absorption of other terpenes and cannabinoids in the body, making it an important component of the entourage effect.
In terms of flavor, limonene can contribute to a citrusy taste and aroma in cannabis strains. It is often found in high concentrations in strains like Lemon Haze and Lemon Skunk.
Linalool is a naturally occurring terpene found in many plants, including cannabis. It is known for its distinct floral aroma, and is one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis. Linalool is also found in lavender and is responsible for the plant's relaxing effects.
In cannabis, linalool is believed to contribute to the overall calming and relaxing effects of certain strains. It may also have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it a potentially useful therapeutic agent.
Local cannabis consists of three important factors at Terpene Journey:
(1) a company whose founders, investors, and employees are from Massachusetts,
(2) a small business at its roots and core, not part of a multi-state conglomerate, and
(3) a company whose founders have a demonstrated passion for cannabis or disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs.
Myrcene is a terpene that is commonly found in cannabis, as well as in other plants such as mango, lemongrass, basil, and hops. It is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis strains.
Myrcene has also been associated with sedative effects. It's important to note that myrcene, like other terpenes, is believed to work in conjunction with cannabinoids to produce the entourage effect, where the combination of different compounds in cannabis may have synergistic therapeutic benefits.
Pinene is a terpene that is commonly found in cannabis as well as other plants such as pine trees, rosemary, and sage. It is characterized by its fresh, piney aroma and is one of the most common terpenes found in nature. In cannabis, pinene is typically found in low concentrations but can have a significant impact on the overall scent and flavor of a strain.
Some research also suggests that pinene may help improve focus and mental clarity, making it a potentially useful terpene for those seeking a more uplifting and energizing cannabis experience that isn't too energizing.
Pre-rolls are ready to go cannabis joints – already ground cannabis flower rolled in some kind of rolling papers. In some cases, pre-rolls are also infused which increases the level of THC in the joint overall.
Cannabis Pre-RollsIn Massachusetts, a recreational dispensary refers to a cannabis retailer that serves all adults 21 or older.
Terpinolene is a naturally occurring terpene found in many plant species, including cannabis. It is characterized by its fresh, woody aroma with hints of citrus and floral notes, which often all come together to be perceived as "fruity".
Similar to Limonene, terpinolene's energy-related benefits often come from reported anti-depressive effects.
Cannabis tincture is cannabis plant material that has been soaked in a strong alcohol and strained. The resulting liquid is then ingested orally or sublingually (under the tongue). The main difference between a cannabis tincture and cannabis edibles more generally is they are processed in the body differently. Tinctures do not pass through the liver so the high is more immediate and not as strong.
Cannabis TincturesTopical is a catch all term for cannabis-infused products that are created to be applied to the skin. Topicals are not inhaled or ingested as other marijuana product categories are. Some examples are salves and lotions.
THC is a cannabinoid molecule in marijuana (cannabis) that's long been recognized as the main psychoactive ingredient—that is, the substance that causes people who use marijuana to feel high.
