First Things First
When it comes to creating and purchasing cannabis products, understanding terpenes is crucial. Companies have the choice of using either cannabis-derived or botanically-derived terpenes. While both options have their benefits, many believe that cannabis-derived terpenes are superior due to their more complex aroma and flavor profiles. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between these two types of terpenes.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are organic compounds found in plants that are responsible for their unique aroma and flavor profiles. They are produced in the same glandular trichomes as cannabinoids like THC and CBD. There are over 20,000 known terpenes, and they can be found in a wide variety of plants, including cannabis. We only in the beginning of understanding terpenes.
In a strain like Tangie, you may taste the orange terpene profile. However, in a strain like Grape Pie, you may taste more of a grapier terpene profile. It is important to note that some strains are named after their taste and aroma while others are not.
Cannabis Derived Terpenes
Cannabis derived terpenes are extracted from the same plant as the cannabinoids. They are extracted through various methods such as steam distillation, hydrodistillation, and solvent extraction. Because they are extracted from the same plant, they are often believed to have a more complex aroma and flavor profile than botanically derived terpenes. This is because they are influenced by the other compounds found in the cannabis plant, such as cannabinoids and flavonoids.
One benefit of using cannabis-derived terpenes is that they can provide a more authentic and strain-specific experience. For example, a cannabis company may use terpenes extracted from a specific strain like Sour Diesel to create a vape cartridge that has the same aroma and flavor profile as the original strain. This is why understanding terpenes is important when purchasing cannabis products.
Botanically Derived Terpenes
Botanically derived terpenes, on the other hand, are extracted from other plants and fruits. Some of the most common sources of botanically derived terpenes include lavender, peppermint, and citrus fruits. These terpenes can be isolated and added to cannabis products to enhance their aroma and flavor profiles.
While botanically derived terpenes can provide unique and enjoyable flavors, they may not have the same complexity as cannabis-derived terpenes. This is because they are not influenced by the other compounds found in the cannabis plant, and therefore may not provide the same strain-specific experience. Understanding terpenes is important if you are concerned about having additives in your cannabis products, especially something you may have an allergy or other health condition with.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to understanding terpenes and choosing between cannabis-derived and botanically derived terpenes, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, many cannabis companies believe that cannabis-derived terpenes provide a more authentic and complex experience, and therefore choose to use them in their products. As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how companies continue to utilize terpenes to create unique and enjoyable cannabis products. It’s important to start understanding terpenes now because they aren’t going anywhere.
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Do you look for terpenes when you buy cannabis products? Let us know in the comments below!
