Everyone who is a cannabis fan knows that sharp, unmistakable fragrance when they break the seal or crack open the jar. There’s more to smell than meets the eye. It’s a sense of memory, mood and expectation all rolled up into one. Terpenes play a role in this sensation, and not just any kind of terpenes, but those that are extracted directly from cannabis plants themselves. As cannabis-derived compounds known as terpenes, these compounds are quickly becoming the secret ingredient of anyone who wants to improve quality, flavor, and authenticity or overall product quality.
Image credit: massterpenes.com
In the past, many producers have relied on botanical terpenes as means of recapturing the original cannabis strains. It was logical on paper. It was feasible to make common strain profiles through extracting pinene and limonene from oranges and pine trees. The reality did not always meet the promises. The scent of these terpenes was initially pleasant, but they often lacked the fervor, soulfulness and durability of their cannabis counterparts. In addition, they degraded fast and could end up tasting more like air freshener than flower.
The pure cannabis terpenes are what make a difference. Extracted directly from cannabis, they not only carry the main molecules that determine the aroma of a particular strain but also the subtle and positive notes that botanicals can’t reproduce. It’s not just about the flavor, it’s also about capturing the strain’s spirit.
Another innovation that pushes this further is the use of live resin terpenes. Terpenes are extracted directly from the plant after harvesting instead of from curled or dried cannabis. This method of quick-freezing locks in volatile compounds which might otherwise disappear. The terpene profile is more vivid, vibrant and richer. It feels much more like the original strain.
The sensory benefits are obvious, but the impact of cannabis-derived terpenes goes beyond flavor. These terpenes play an important role in what consumers and researchers refer to as the entourage effect which is the complex interaction of cannabinoids and terpenes. For instance, a formulation with OG Kush terpenes can deliver a more balanced experience or a sense of familiarity due to the supporting compounds preserved within the extract.
Transparency grows in demand as people become more educated. People don’t only look for high THC amounts. People are reading ingredient lists and analyzing products. They also look for cannabis-derived terpenes that have precise information on the origin and extraction. Companies that adhere to the requirements of this standard and provide unblended, uncut strain-specific profiles of terpenes will be rewarded by industry credibility and customer loyalty.
This shift is particularly important in a market crowded with options. Since so many products are competing for our attention, the ones who are committed to authenticity will have a distinct advantage. While synthetic blends and botanical flavors may catch a person’s attention initially, the experience of Terpenes derived from cannabis is what keeps them coming back.
Mass Terpenes has emerged as one of the leaders in the field, offering hemp-derived and live resin line-ups that are designed to meet various budgets, without sacrificing quality. Their CDT Series is now the most popular product among extractors and vape makers alike.
In the final analysis, it’s not only about the smell. It’s all about connecting. Terpenes have a greater impact on your experience than you may realize, whether you are creating a product to sell or just smoking a joint after a long workday. Pure cannabis terpenes offer clarity and depth, as well as an authentic relationship with the plant. The most potent of all ingredients are the Terpenes.