Terpenes: What They Are, Where They Come From, and Their Functions

By Sofia Missiato

Terpenes are tiny, volatile molecules that evaporate easily and reach our nose to help us identify the type of plant in front of us. Terpenes are not found exclusively in the cannabis plant, but are part of many other species in the plant kingdom. These compounds, responsible for the aroma of cannabis, have played an important role in the selection of varieties and the domestication process of the plant by humanity, as aroma is an important characteristic that is taken into consideration. Cannabis terpenes are found in trichomes: tiny mushroom-shaped crystals that cover the leaves and flowers.

These odoriferous compounds (that emit or spread an odor) are found in higher concentrations in the flowers of unpollinated female cannabis plants and play a very important role in protecting the plant against potential threats such as bacteria, insects, or any other external environmental factors.

The quantity and composition of terpenes in each plant vary depending on its genetics and growing conditions. The aromatic components serve to repel predators and attract potential pollinating insects. There are multiple factors that can affect the production of these compounds: climate, maturation time, fertilizers, substrate, and even the time of day when harvesting is done.

How Do Terpenes Work?

Terpenes are important not only for their aroma and potential biological effects but also for their synergy with cannabinoids such as CBD, CBN, and CBG. There is evidence that when cannabinoids and terpenes coexist, their respective effects are enhanced.

This phenomenon, known as the entourage effect, is what makes cannabis molecules unique. That said, we still have much to learn about how and why they interact with certain receptors and biological processes. Fortunately, one issue that all researchers agree on is the essential role of terpenes in full-spectrum CBD extracts, enhancing their efficacy compared to CBD isolate.

The entourage effect, introduced by the father of cannabis, Raphael Mechoulam, holds that all natural compounds in cannabis can work together synergistically to enhance beneficial properties. This means that the isolated elements of the plant need to work in harmony to be more effective. It is believed that cannabis contains more than 120 terpenes  with concentrations varying by species. For example, the differences found in terpenes in indica and sativa strains.

The health benefits of these compounds are not fully understood, but they may contribute to the differences in medicinal properties found among different cannabis subtypes. As our understanding increases, we will also know how to better develop and use new medicinal varieties.