How Terpenes Influence Marijuana
Smell is a great indicator of quality marijuana and you can thank terpenes for strains with the aroma of lemons, fruity pebbles or even diesel. Terpenes are natural compounds found in many plants and every kind has its own unique smell. Many terpenes are used to make perfumes, essential oils, medicines and more. Plants use terpenes to invite pollinators to land or warn off threats depending on the scent. Research about terpenes is rapidly expanding and we're learning more about their effect on the potency of marijuana and the kind of high you will experience.
Linalool - This terpene is renowned for its powerful lavender and fruity scent. You'll enjoy a positive mental state and it can help some users fall asleep. Find linalool in marijuana strains available at Higher Leaf like Headband, Lavender and Granddaddy Purple. Enjoy linalool strains when you're stressed or need to completely relax mind and body.
Myrcene - A spicy and earthy terpene also found in hops and mangoes. It gives hoppy beer that spicy-bitter taste and it's also used to make insect repellent candles. Myrcene high strains at Higher Leaf like White Widow and Skunk #1 boost happiness, help muscles relax and increase the overall percentage of THC in the brain. Use marijuana rich in myrcene for long lasting couch lock and internal reflection.
Pinene - Fresh cut pine needles come to mind when you smell this terpene. Found in the sap and needles of conifer trees, it's also present in herbs like basil and dill. This terpene is a natural insect repellent and an ingredient in turpentine. You can find pinene in strains like Dutch Treat and Blue Dream at Higher Leaf. Alertness and increased focus are common effects of pinene in marijuana. Choose pinene rich strains to work on a big project or to focus on something creative.
Limonene - This lemon scented terpene is present in citrus fruits and herbs like rosemary and peppermint. Its extract is commonly used in perfumes and in all natural cleansers. Strains like Super Lemon Haze and Sour Diesel at Higher Leaf can thank limonene for their powerful odor and mentally calming effects. Try limonene strains to enjoy a heavy dinner or mellow out after long day.
Caryophyllene - A spicy smelling terpene found in pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Strains with caryophyllene have relaxing and mood enhancing properties. This terpene is prominent in popular Higher Leafs strains like Girl Scout Cookies, Chemdawg and OG Kush. Enjoy caryophyllene strains when you want to chill for hours on the weekend or listen to music on a whole new level.
When it comes to concentrates, some terpenes are lost during extraction. Products like LIT Pens and Nectors by Odo are enhanced by adding natural terpenes back in at the end. Live Resin is another concentrate that is high in terpenes because it's made from live marijuana that is frozen before it's extracted into a concentrate. Find out which effects you like by researching the terpenes present in each strain you buy.
Stop by the store in Kirkland or Bellevue and ask a Higher Leaf Budtender about the marijuana strains they enjoy because of their unique terpene profiles. You'll find something new to try every time you come in! Want to learn more about a certain topic? Share your questions with us at higherleaf.com/feedback.