Cannabis Derived Terpenes and Flavor: How Terpenes Affect Taste
Cannabis has long been known for its distinct aroma and flavor which can vary from strain to strain. While cannabinoids like THC and CBD play a significant role in the effects of cannabis, another group of compounds called terpenes contributes to its taste and overall experience.
For those that appreciate the finer details of cannabis consumption or anyone that simply wants to learn more about the science behind it all, this guide is for you. Today, we’ll dive deep on terpenes and how they affect the taste of your favorite strains. First, let’s explain what terpenes are.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes refer to aromatic compounds that are found in various plants, but most notably cannabis. They are responsible for the unique scents and flavors in different cannabis strains.
Common types of terpenes that are found in cannabis strains include limonene, myrcene, pinene, caryophyllene, and linalool. These compounds are produced in the plant's resin glands and serve various functions, such as attracting pollinators and repelling predators.
The natural terpenes in a cannabis strain add to a unique taste profile when the flower is smoked or cooked with. They can also be extracted to be placed in other mediums like vapes to add to the taste and complement any other flavorings.
Terpenes and Taste Perception
Terpenes interact with human taste receptors to give each strain their own unique flavor profile. Having said that, not all weed strains contain each and every terpene. They may have varying terpene profiles contributing to their own tastes, scents, and effects.
Here are some examples of how the more common terpenes affect the taste of weed:
- Limonene gives cannabis a citrusy and energizing taste
- Myrcene has an earthy and musky profile
- Pinene adds a piney and fresh taste
- Caryophyllene adds a spicy/peppery note
- Linalool provides a floral and relaxing flavor
How Terpenes Influence the Consumption Experience
When combined with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, terpenes contribute to what is known as the “entourage effect”. This synergistic interaction amplifies the therapeutic effects of weed and allows the user to enjoy even stronger benefits of the THC or CBD they’ve consumed.
How to Enhance Terpene Flavor
To get the most out of your cannabis, there are some things you can do to enhance the terpene flavor during the smoking process.
Dab or Vape at Lower Temperature
Dabbing or vaping your cannabis at a lower temperature allows the terpenes to flourish without over-burning them and erasing some of the flavor. Instead, the taste is bolder, smoother, and more noticeable, allowing you to enjoy your favorite strains in a new way with a richer taste.
Take Slow and Controlled Inhalations
Taking slow and controlled hits when smoking will allow you to get the most out of terpenes. Make sure to avoid taking any hits that are too quick or big and will cause you to cough and not feel the full effect of the terpenes.
Grind Your Bud Properly
Properly grinding your weed before packing it into your joint, blunt or bowl is crucial if you want to get the full effect. If the weed is ground unevenly or not ground at all, the smoke won’t be evenly distributed and you’ll miss out on the vibes you actually want to achieve.
Try a Terpene-Infused Concentrate
You can find terpene-infused concentrate like sauce or live resin that you can use to give you a more intense flavor profile and take your smoking sesh to the next level. Using a quality dab rig, you can enhance the flavor even further.
Try Edibles With a Strong Terpene Profile
Next time you buy edibles, seek out some that offer a strong terpene profile. This will give you a tasty and flavorful eating experience followed by an even more satisfying high.
Match a Terpene's Flavor Characteristics With a Snack or Drink
Eating or drinking something with a flavor that matches the terpenes you’re consuming is a great way to get the most enjoyment out of your flower or edible. For example, if you’re smoking limonene-rich strains, pair it with a citrus drink to really bring out the flavor.
Use a Terpene-Infused Quick Hitter
If you want to maximize the taste of your terpenes, using products that are infused with them are a great way to amplify the flavor. For example, the terpene-infused, Hemper Quick Hitters have real fruit terpenes in them that are activated with a click ball to add a delicious new experience to every sesh.
Terpene Preservation and Storage
Properly storing weed with terpenes is crucial for maximum enjoyment. There are a few factors such as light, heat, humidity, and oxygen exposure that can degrade terpenes over time.
To preserve terpene content, you must store your cannabis products in airtight containers, preferably glass-made. Controlling temperature and humidity levels, avoiding direct light exposure, and minimizing oxygen contact can help maintain the integrity of terpenes and prevent any loss in flavor, giving you the best possible smoking experience.
Get the Perfect Smoking and Dabbing Tools for a Terpy Sesh
Now that you’re a terpene expert, you can really enjoy the full taste of weed and reap maximum benefits. For the best smoking and dabbing tools to accompany your next terpy sesh, check out our wide selection of pipes, rigs, papers, and any other accessory you could need to get the most out of your sesh.
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