Terpenes Unveiled: The Science Behind Cannabis Flavor Profiles

Welcome to the Altius Dispensary blog, where we’re committed to elevating your cannabis knowledge. Today, we’re diving deep into the fascinating world of terpenes – the organic compounds responsible for the distinctive aromas and flavors in your favorite cannabis strains.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. These organic molecules are produced in the same glands that produce cannabinoids like THC and CBD. While cannabis contains over 150 different terpenes, only a handful appear in significant concentrations.

The Technical Breakdown

From a chemical standpoint, terpenes are hydrocarbons constructed from isoprene units (C₅H₈). They’re categorized based on the number of these units:

• Monoterpenes (C₁₀H₁₆): Including limonene and myrcene
• Sesquiterpenes (C₁₅H₂₄): Including caryophyllene and humulene
• Diterpenes (C₂₀H₃₂): Less common in cannabis

Common Cannabis Terpenes and Their Properties

Myrcene

The most abundant terpene in cannabis (can constitute up to 50% of a strain’s terpene profile)

• Chemical formula: C₁₀H₁₆
• Aroma: Earthy, musky, clove-like
• Boiling point: 167°C (332.6°F)
• Found in: Hops, lemongrass, mangoes

Limonene

The second most common terpene in cannabis

• Chemical formula: C₁₀H₁₆
• Aroma: Citrus
• Boiling point: 176°C (348.8°F)
• Found in: Citrus fruit rinds, juniper, peppermint

β-Caryophyllene

Unique among terpenes for its ability to bind directly to CB2 receptors

• Chemical formula: C₁₅H₂₄
• Aroma: Peppery, spicy, woody
• Boiling point: 160°C (320°F)
• Found in: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon

The Entourage Effect: Beyond Cannabinoids

Researchers hypothesize that terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids in what’s known as the “entourage effect.” This theory suggests that the full spectrum of compounds in cannabis work together to enhance therapeutic effects beyond what isolated compounds could achieve alone.

This is why many consumers report different effects from products with identical THC/CBD content but different terpene profiles.

Terpene Preservation in Processing

Terpenes are volatile compounds with relatively low boiling points (ranging from 120-180°C). This creates technical challenges for preservation during processing:

• Curing Process: Slow drying at low temperatures helps preserve terpene content
• Extraction Methods: Cold extraction techniques like subcritical CO₂ or hydrocarbon extraction better preserve terpene profiles
• Storage Considerations: UV-resistant, airtight containers minimize terpene degradation

Finding Your Perfect Terpene Profile at Altius

At Altius Dispensary in Round Lake Beach, IL, we take pride in offering products with diverse terpene profiles to suit every preference. Our knowledgeable staff can help you identify strains with terpene profiles aligned with your desired experience.

Whether you’re seeking the relaxing effects of myrcene-dominant strains or the energizing potential of limonene-rich varieties, we’re here to help you find the perfect match.

Visit Us to Elevate Your Cannabis Experience

We invite you to visit our Round Lake Beach location to explore our curated selection of recreational cannabis products. Our team is passionate about education and ready to answer any questions about terpenes or other cannabis science topics.

Change Your Altitude with Altius – where cannabis knowledge meets quality products for an elevated experience.