Terpenes Play An Important Role
Cannabis is not a one-size-fits-all plant. There are hundreds of different cultivars (AKA strains) featuring a wide range of active ingredients. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD are star characters but they don’t tell the whole story.
Terpenes also play a huge role in determining the experience an individual cultivar provides. Offering the distinct taste, aroma and outcome cannabis is known for, terpenes (sometimes called terps) are some of the most important compounds found in the plant. Your sensory experiences are why terps matter so much in the cannabis plant. There are several main terps, individually offering unique flavors and results.
In this month’s terpene spotlight, it’s all about the terpinolene terpene. Considered the least common cannabis terp, this molecule is actually quite a heavy hitter finding itself in some of the most famous strains around the world.
What is Terpinolene?
Fresh-smelling terpinolene is a favorite in the cannabis community thanks to its mildly woodsy yet floral sweet scent and sedative effects. In essential oil form, terpinolene is a common ingredient in many household soaps and cleansers. It’s also found sage, lilac, rosemary and certain coniferous trees.
As we mentioned above, terpinolene is not overly abundant in most cannabis, but it’s still fairly prominent. According to Leafy.com, it’s found in around one in ten cultivars.
If you’re consuming cannabis to help reduce insomnia, boost antioxidants in the body or even promote heart health, make sure to ask for cultivars with terpinolene at the local dispensary.
Which Cannabis Strains Contain Terpinolene?
While terpinolene is considered to be among the rarer terpenes, many classic cannabis cultivars contain this compound. These include Dutch Treat, Jack Herer, Super Lemon Haze and Golden Goat.
Terpinolene is present in many sativa-dominant strains, but can also be found in hybrid and indica-leaning bud. Make sure to discuss your terpene preferences with your friendly neighborhood dispensary staff prior to making your product selection!
Preventing Terpinolene Terpene Evaporation in Cannabis
With terpinolene and other terps playing such a vital part in your cannabis experience, it’s imperative to protect them until it’s time to smoke or vape. Up to 40% of terpenes are lost forever within one week of storage, so you have to act quickly to preserve terpenes.
The most effective way to save your terps is with a terpene shield from Boveda. The terpene shield goes into the jar or container right alongside the bud, creating a monolayer around the trichomes. These milky crystals are where terps and other active ingredients like cannabinoids live. The monolayer shields these compounds, preventing their escape until it’s time to grind and consume.
Cannabis aficionados understand the importance of terpenes—and why preserving them matters. Enjoy your terpinolene to the fullest by making sure to store flower with a terpene shield every time.
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High and (Too) Dry: An Interview with SavetheTerps.org
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