The age old question has marketed cannabis as three groups to decipher the effects of their cannabis purchase. But as new information comes to light it’s becoming more clear that there are many other ways to predict the effects of cannabis products, particularly terpenes.

What does Sativa, Indica, or Hybrid mean?

Before diving into terpenes and why they are relevant to predicting cannabis effects it’s important to have some background on what Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid indicate. The differences in these three categories are visible during the plant's growth. 

Sativa plants are typically tall and skinny plants that produce thin pointed leaves. The effect of the flower from a sativa plant is known typically as a head high often used in the daytime as it can help the user focus, feel energized or creative, and ease anxiety. 

Indica plants produce fat wide leaves and typically grow in more of a bush form. Indica effects are known for their body high, commonly called the “in-the-couch” flower as it relaxes the body and can help the user rest. 

Hybrids are a combination in breeding a Sativa and Indica plant. Hybrid plants can lean more to one side in their genetics than another, one way this is explained is by calling a strain “Indica-dominant Hybrid” or “Sativa-dominant Hybrid” which will create effects more true to the dominant side of its genetics.

So what are Terpenes?

Terpenes are found throughout nature, from citrus fruits to pine trees. Terpenes are chemical compounds you can smell and taste. There are about 400 known terpenes linked to cannabis but not all of them seem to have a discovered effect. When buying a hemp or cannabis product it can be helpful to find what really works for you and makes you feel good by paying attention to the terpenes present. 

Terpenes are tested in a lab just like cannabinoid potency to evaluate what terpenes are present in a specific strain. There can be a wide range of different terpenes in a single strain so the important thing to pay attention to is the top 3 Terpenes and their potency.

How do I read a terpene report?

Lab reports can be a little visually overwhelming if you’re not familiar with how to read them and what you’re looking for. We at Gold CBD go the extra mile to break down the terpene profile for each strain and what its effects are in combination. You can find this information under any Hemp flower strain, but we also provide them with our Certificate of Analysis so that you can see for yourself. 

It’s important to note that even though terpenes can be somewhat opposite of each other, they work in combination and can have different effects. For example Beta-Caryophyllene which can be sedative combined with Limonene which is uplifting can create a calming uplifted effect. Knowing what terpenes you enjoy the effects of will help you discover new types of flower. You can always reach out to our team for flower suggestions based on your needs, we’d love to help!

Here’s a quick overview of some common terpenes and their effects.

Beta-Caryophyllene

Beta-Caryophyllene has a woody and spice aroma, found in other natural products like black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. Cognitive effects can reduce pain sensation, soothe anxiety and stress, and aiding to clear the mind.

Hemp Flower with Beta-Caryophyllene Terpenes

• Bubba Kush 
• Emerald Kush

Limonene

Limonene is a fresh citrus, zesty aroma, found in nature in lemons, oranges, and juniper. Cognitive effects of Limonene include improved and uplifted mood, reduced pain sensation, stress relief, and improved brain function like focus. 

Hemp Flower with Limonene Terpenes

• Lemon Octane
• Citrusberri
• Lingonberri

Beta-Myrcene

Beta-Myrcene has an earthy and musky aroma found in nature in Thyme, Mango, and Lemongrass. Most common cognitive effects are sleep aid, clear mind, and can overall give a more intense “high”. 

Hemp Flower with Beta-Myrcene Terpenes

• Critical Berries
• Lemon Snap
• Sour Drops

Alpha-Pinene

Alpha-Pinene has a fresh pine scent, found in nature in evergreen and pine trees. Its cognitive effects are uplifting, anxiety and stress relief, and improved focus.

Hemp Flower with Alpha-Pinene Terpenes

• Hawaiian Haze

Terpinolene

Terpinolene has a piney, floral, herb-like aroma that can even have notes of citrus. Found in nature in Lilacs, Cumin, and nutmeg. Terpinolene is uplifting, calming, and can inspire creativity.

Hemp Flower with Terpinolene Terpenes

• Sour Brulee
• Pink Panther