If you use cannabis recreationally, you don’t necessarily have to become a marijuana expert. As long as the budtenders at your favorite Boulder dispensary are highly knowledgeable, they’ll never steer you wrong.
Should you ever want to hop in the driver’s seat, though, you should start by familiarizing yourself with the terminology. From Indica and Sativa to cannabidiol and concentrates, there are dozens of terms worth learning because they let you know what’s in store when using any given product.
When it comes to flavor and aroma, which can make or break a product depending on your personal preferences, the term you’re looking for is “terpenes.” These naturally occurring chemical compounds are what give each strain its unique bouquet.
The average cannabis plant contains dozens of terpene varieties; however, most are only present in trace amounts. The few terpenes that are more prominent than all the rest give the strain its distinctive scent profile.
While terpenes don’t get you high in the traditional sense, research indicates that they have psychoactive effects and relieve symptoms like depression and anxiety. As such, budtenders often encourage customers to focus more on a product’s terpene profile than on its THC content when they want to achieve specific effects.
Read on to learn about some of the most common terpenes, so you know what to look for the next time you head to a recreational dispensary in Boulder:
1. Myrcene
Because it’s the most popular terpene used in cannabis products today, myrcene is often called the “mother of all terpenes.” Found in bay, parsley, hops, and mangoes, myrcene has mild sedative effects. With an earthy odor, it’s also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Limonene
Limonene is another terpene found in abundance in modern cannabis products. Its powerful citrus notes can elevate your mood while relieving stress and anxiety. If you ever get a whiff of lemon or orange when evaluating different strains, it’s most likely limonene that you’re smelling.
3. Linalool
Reminiscent of lavender, linalool’s aroma is floral and mellow. Produced by more than 200 species of plants, linalool can be found in mint, cinnamon, rosewood, and birch trees. Known for promoting relaxation, this terpene is also believed to have anti-convulsing effects.
4. Pinene
With its invigorating scent of fresh pine needles, pinene is thought to make you more alert. There are two main varieties—Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene—and both can revitalize the mind and body. Put another way, pinene can lift you up when life is weighing you down.
5. Humulene
Another terpene with energizing effects, humulene is found in ginseng. It also gives beer hops that distinctive musky odor. Since ancient times, Chinese apothecaries have revered plants that contain humulene for their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-depressant properties. Their ability to stimulate the mind, however, was the most sought-after effect.
Shop Our Boulder Dispensary Now!
For high-quality cannabis products with your favorite terpenes, head to Magnolia Road. The best dispensary in Boulder, they carry a vast selection of strains, all of which are cultivated to promote a positive experience. To place an order or learn more, reach out on their Contact Page.
