What Are Terpenes?

C5H8: The Secret Chemical Formula

In the fascinating world of terpenes, there are chemical secrets that give cannabis plant its unique aromas and flavors. At the heart of this chemical magic is a simple but powerful formula: C5H8.

C5H8 represents a chain of five carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms, but it is its three-dimensional arrangement that gives rise to an extraordinary variety of terpenes. Every small change in atomic structure can lead to a completely different terpene, with a unique aroma and taste.

These terpenes are not only responsible for the distinctive aroma of different cannabis plant varieties but may also influence the experiences of users. Some terpenes are known to have potential therapeutic effects, such as myrcene, which could promote relaxation, or limonene, which could increase energy and well-being.

So, while C5H8 may seem like just a small thing, it is actually the key to understanding the complexity of cannabis plant scents and flavors. These terpenes contribute to creating a mosaic of sensory experiences for those who appreciate this extraordinary plant.

The Key Role of Mevalonic Acid in Terpene Production

Cannabis is a fascinating plant that has captured the attention of scholars and herb enthusiasts for many years. One of the most intriguing features of this plant is terpenes, aromatic compounds that contribute to the unique aroma and flavor of different varieties. But how are these terpenes produced? Mevalonic acid plays a crucial role in this process.

Mevalonic acid is a fundamental chemical compound for the biosynthesis of terpenes in cannabis. This acid is a precursor in the production chain that leads to the formation of terpenes, which are then released by the plant in small glands called trichomes. Terpenes are responsible for the wide variety of scents and flavors found in different cannabis varieties, ranging from the earthy and woody aroma of humulene to the fruity and sweet scent of limonene.

What Are Terpenes Used For ?

They serve many purposes, but their main task is to protect plants. They are like chemical guardians of nature. Here are some of the key roles they play:

1.     Defense against Predators : Some terpenes emit unpleasant odors that repel insects and animals that could harm the plant. This defense mechanism helps plants survive and thrive.

2.     Attraction of Pollinators: On the other hand, some terpenes produce delightful fragrances to attract insects, birds, and other animals that aid in pollination. This is essential for the reproduction of many plant species.

3.     Temperature Regulation: Terpenes can influence the density of fog around plants, helping to regulate temperature and protect against excessive sunlight.

4.     Chemical Communication : Plants use terpenes to communicate with each other. When a plant is under attack by parasites, it can release terpenes that alert those nearby, allowing them to prepare for defense.

5.     Aromatherapy: Terpenes are used in aromatherapy for their relaxing and therapeutic effects. Fragrances like lavender and eucalyptus owe their benefits to the action of terpenes.

Where Do We Find Terpenes?

Terpenes are everywhere, even if you might not realize it. Here are some common places where you can find them:

1.     Plants and Trees: They are the primary source of terpenes. You can find them in flowers, leaves, bark, and even roots. Think of the scent of rose flowers or pine essential oils – they are all rich in terpenes.

2.     Fruits and Vegetables: If you’ve ever smelled a ripe strawberry or a slice of lemon, you’ve had a taste of the terpenes present in these foods. Terpenes help define the taste and aroma of many fruits and vegetables.

3.     Essential Oils: Oils are concentrates of terpenes extracted from flowers. They are used in perfumery, cosmetics, and aromatherapy for their health and wellness benefits.

4.     Hemp: Perhaps one of the most debated places to find terpenes is in cannabis. Each variety of weed has a unique combination of terpenes that contributes to its aroma and effect. For example, myrcene, a compound of the terpene class, imparts an earthy scent, while limonene, another compound, imparts a citrusy aroma.

5.     Cleaning Products and Perfumes: Many home fragrances and cleaning products contain synthetic or naturally-derived terpenes.

Additionally, if you love wine, you’ve probably heard that the scents of this beverage develop thanks to the presence of terpenes, which, combined in various ways, give wine its characteristic fruity, herbaceous, alcoholic, or animal aromas, and so on.

In essence, terpenes are everywhere in nature and in our daily lives. Without them, the world would be much less fragrant and flavorful.

But what’s the correlation between cannabinoids and terpenes ?

First and foremost, hemp is a plant, so like any other in nature, it has its share of terpenes inside, causing its unique and recognizable scent among thousands of others. Marijuana contains over 120 compounds of this type, and it’s the combination of these volatile substances that determines its distinctive aroma. Different combinations give rise to different types of weed, each with its own peculiar fragrance and qualities. But that’s not all ! Terpenes also have the ability to act in synergy with marijuana extracts, enhancing their benefits. This characteristic has been the subject of several studies, which have highlighted in particular the important “entourage effect.”

This effect is simply the term used to describe the synergistic work between phytocannabinoids and terpenes in marijuana, a complementary action between these elements contained in natural cannabis extracts that can enhance the therapeutic index of preparations and thus broaden their field of use.

The characteristics of these compounds contained in marijuana, such as the final quantity and type, fundamentally depend on the same factors that affect the health and growth of plants : soil type, climate, fertilizers used, and the age of the specimen.

Terpenes in Cannabis: A Perfect Match

These aromatic molecules found in cannabis also, are produced by the resin glands of the plant, where they accumulate together with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. In practice, these compounds, in combination with cannabinoids, are capable of enhancing their therapeutic potential, as if they were a kind of “natural amplifier.” Specifically, the main property of these organic compounds is to enhance the beneficial effects of CBD and THC.

Primarily, the field of action of terpenes on cannabis positively affects the immune defenses, mood, and relaxation state but without causing psychotropic reactions (they do not produce the so-called “high” effect). This is why they are absolutely safe, legal, and 100% natural substances.