How To Read a Terpene Chart? – The Ultimate Guide

Welcome to Vivimu’s guide to understanding terpenes! Just like a fine wine or a premium cigar, each cannabis strain boasts its own unique aromas. Some are invigorating, while others might make your nose tingle. These distinctive scents are partly due to chemical compounds known as terpenes.

In this article, we’ll explain terpenes, highlight the most common ones in commercial cannabis strains, and show you how to use a terpene chart to find cultivars that align with your preferences. We will also examine terpenes in-depth and learn how to interpret terpene charts effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding Terpenes: Cannabis contains aromatic compounds called terpenes, which give the plant its distinct scent and effects. They interact with cannabinoids to create distinctive experiences for each strain.

• Common Terpenes: Some of the most prevalent terpenes in cannabis include Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Limonene, each offering unique aromas and contributing to the overall profile of different strains.

• Terpene Preservation: Proper storage of cannabis, including using UV-protected, airtight jars and humidity packs, is essential to maintaining terpene content and ensuring the best experience.

• Using a Terpene Chart: A terpene chart helps users understand the terpene profiles of various strains, aiding in the selection of cannabis that aligns with their preferences.

What Are Terpenes?

At Vivimu, we recognize the incredible potential of terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic hydrocarbon compounds, while terpenoids are oxygen-containing terpenes. Both are found in the essential oils of various plants and significantly influence the potential effects of different cannabis strains.

Terpenes and terpenoids are classified based on their isoprene units. The most common in cannabis are monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. Here are some examples of cannabis-derived terpenes from each category:

• Monoterpenoids: Linalool, Geraniol, and Cineole (Eucalyptol)
  
• Sesquiterpenoids: Bisabolol
  
• Monoterpenes: Myrcene, Limonene, Phellandrene
  
• Sesquiterpenes: Pinene, Humulene, Farnesene

In cannabis, terpenes are found in trichomes, which are resin-filled, sticky hairs primarily on the flowers. Monoterpenes are located within the stalked granular trichomes on prominent cannabis buds, while sesquiterpenes are within the sessile trichomes on sugar leaves.

Research into how the body interacts with terpenes, particularly in cannabis, is still developing. However, it is believed that terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids, flavonoids, and other compounds in the cannabis plant. This interplay creates a unique experience with each strain, commonly referred to as the entourage effect or, more precisely, the ensemble effect.

Terpenes can be isolated for use in various products, such as cleaning solvents, pesticides, and dyes. For example, the pine scent in Pinesol cleaner comes from the terpene pinene. In cannabis products, terpenes can be added to edibles and other items to achieve specific effects.

Learn More About Terpenes?

Terpenes aren’t exclusive to cannabis. Some popular non-cannabis terpenes include:

• Valencene: The primary terpene of the Valencia orange, known for its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, neuroprotective, and antioxidant properties.
  
• Borneol: Found in cinnamon, this terpene has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for various conditions and may increase the absorption of cannabinoids into the bloodstream.
  
• Eucalyptol: Also known as cineole, this terpene is found in eucalyptus trees and herbs like rosemary.

While terpenes are important for flavor and aroma profiles in plants, other non-terpenoid volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) are more important for cannabis aroma than previously believed. At Vivimu, we continue to explore and harness the power of terpenes to enhance our products and provide unique experiences for our users.

What Are The Common Cannabis Terpenes?

At Vivimu, we appreciate the diverse and fascinating world of cannabis terpenes. The cannabis plant boasts over 150 different terpenes, each contributing to the unique aroma and experience of various strains. While research has often focused on isolated terpenes in higher quantities, here’s a look at some of the most common ones you’ll encounter in cannabis:

Myrcene

Myrcene is the most prevalent terpene in cannabis, particularly abundant in strains like Grand Daddy Purple, OG Kush, Jack Herer, and Soul Diesel. Beyond cannabis, myrcene is found in plants such as hops and lemongrass. It is renowned for having a musky, earthy aroma with a hint of fruitiness.

Caryophyllene

This terpene is prominent in black pepper, hops, cloves, oregano, and basil, giving off a robust, woodsy aroma. In cannabis, caryophyllene is found in strains like Zkittles, Bubba Kush, GG4, and Blue Dream. It’s unique among terpenes for its larger molecular structure and distinctive scent.

Limonene

One of the most well-known terpenes, limonene, is mostly present in citrus fruits. It’s a common addition to fragrances, soaps, and foods due to its pleasant, citrusy scent. In the cannabis world, limonene enhances the aromatic profile of various strains, providing a fresh, uplifting fragrance.

At Vivimu, we continue to explore the potential of these and other terpenes, recognizing their role in creating unique and enjoyable cannabis experiences.

What Is A Terpene Chart?

A terpene chart is a visual representation that helps you understand the different terpenes present in cannabis strains and their respective profiles. It typically includes information on the aroma, flavor, and potential effects of each terpene. While the FDA has not approved the use of terpenes in food, supplements, or drugs, these charts can be a useful tool for cannabis enthusiasts looking to explore different strains. Below is a terpene effects chart: 

Cannabis Derived Terpenes: Frequently Asked Questions

Do Terpenes Get You High by Themselves?

No, terpenes by themselves do not produce a high. Their overall experience is influenced by their interaction with cannabinoids, but they do not have any psychoactive effects. 

How Do Terpenes and Terpenoids Differ From One Another?

Terpenes are the natural compounds found in plants, while terpenoids are modified terpenes that have been chemically altered, often through drying and curing processes.

How Are Terpenes Different From CBD?

While CBD (cannabidiol) is a cannabinoid recognized for its possible supportive qualities, terpenes are aromatic compounds that add to the aroma and profile of cannabis. They serve different functions in the plant.

How Do You Get the Most Terpene When Growing?

To maximize terpene production, focus on proper growing conditions, such as optimal light, temperature, and humidity. Using organic nutrients can also enhance terpene profiles.

Can Terpenes Be Affected During Curing and Processing?

Yes, terpenes can react to heat and light. Proper curing and storage are essential to preserving their integrity.

Terpene Preservation In Different Extraction Processes

1. Drying and Curing: During these stages, careful control of temperature and humidity is crucial to minimize the loss of terpenes. Improper techniques can result in significant terpene degradation, affecting the overall aroma and flavor profile of the final product.
   
2. Distillate Production: This process involves stripping the cannabis plant of everything except THC. Unfortunately, this means that terpenes are also removed, resulting in a product with high THC content but lacking the nuanced flavors and effects provided by terpenes.
   
3. Live Resin Concentrates: Live resin is created from fresh, frozen flowers, which helps preserve the terpenes before any oil extraction occurs. By using this technique, the finished product is guaranteed to have a strong terpene profile that closely resembles the qualities of the original plant.
   
4. Solventless Extractions: Methods such as rosin pressing or ice water extraction preserve the full spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids from the original cultivar. These techniques avoid the use of solvents, maintaining the integrity of the plant’s natural compounds.

How Do You Preserve Terpenes for Stored Cannabis?

At Vivimu, we know how crucial it is to preserve the terpene content in your cannabis to maintain its full aroma, flavor, and effect profile. Here are some tips on how to keep your cannabis fresh and terpene-rich:

Be Mindful of the Packaging Date

• Check the Date: Always check the harvest and packaging date before purchasing. Cannabis can have a shelf life of up to a year, but older weed will likely have lost some of its original terpene content due to its volatile nature.

Proper Storage After Opening

• Maintain Moisture Content: Once the original package is opened, it’s vital to maintain the right moisture levels. Too much moisture, light, or air can lead to dry or overly moist weed.
  
  • Dry Weed: This can result in a loss of terpenes, flavor, aroma, and desired effects.
    
  • Overly Moist Weed: It can be hard to burn and grind and may increase the risk of mold.

Storage Tips and Tools

• Use UV-Protected, Airtight Jars: These can help protect the nugs from light and air exposure, maintaining their freshness.
  
• Consider a Humidor: A humidor specifically designed for cannabis can keep your flowers at optimal humidity levels.
  
• Humidity Packs: Place humidity packs in your storage jars to help maintain proper moisture levels.

Buy and Grind Only What You Need

• Limit Exposure: Purchase and grind only the amount of cannabis you plan to use to minimize exposure to outside elements that can degrade terpene content.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your cannabis remains as fresh and terpene-rich as possible, providing the best experience every time.

How Do Terpenes Work?

At Vivimu, we recognize that the mechanisms behind cannabis terpenes are complex and not yet fully understood. However, studies suggest that terpenes interact with THC to create distinctive effects by engaging differently with the endocannabinoid receptors in your brain. Certain terpenes are thought to be psychoactive, and their existence can affect how a cannabis strain feels overall.

Terpenes and Their Effects

• Interaction with THC: Terpenes can modify how THC interacts with your brain’s endocannabinoid receptors, potentially altering the overall potential effects of a strain.
  
• Unique Profiles: Each cannabis plant has a unique terpene profile. When a plant has a terpene profile abundant in specific terpenes, it might produce particular effects.

While much is still to be discovered about the full range of terpene effects, it is clear that they play a significant role in shaping the experience of using cannabis. At Vivimu, we continue to explore the potential of terpenes to enhance our products and provide unique, enjoyable experiences for our users. Refer to our terpene profile chart for more information.

How Many Terpenes Are There?

Terpenes develop in plants due to a multitude of factors, including soil composition, weather conditions, and even the time of day the plant blooms. This complexity results in a vast array of terpenes across different plant species.

Hemp and Cannabis Terpenes

• Diverse Terpene Profiles: Researchers have identified over a hundred distinct types of cannabis terpenes. Each cannabis strain can have a unique combination of these terpenes, contributing to its particular aroma, profile, and potential effects.

Gaining knowledge about the different types and effects of terpenes can improve your enjoyment of and interaction with cannabis. At Vivimu, we continue to explore and harness the potential of these diverse compounds to create exceptional products for our customers.

Where To Find Terpene Products Online?

Looking for top-notch cannabis-derived terpenes? Look no further than Vivimu! We offer a wide range of high-quality terpene products that are perfect for enhancing your cannabis experience. But before you make a purchase, it’s crucial to check the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each product to ensure you’re getting the best quality.

You can buy cannabis-derived terpene products online from us. At Vivimu, we pride ourselves on offering premium products, each backed by a third-party lab-tested certificate. Whether you’re into fruity, earthy, or something in between, we’ve got you covered. Check out our cannabis-derived terpenes products and pick your favorite one today!

Regarding the Terpene Chart, do you have any further questions? Visit our blog section or send us an email at support@vivimu.zendesk.com to learn more. You can also give us a call at +1 720-955-1667 if you have any questions. Help is available from our knowledgeable support staff.