Many stoners across the world enjoy discovering new strains based on their aromas and flavors. Once those right smells and tastes are found, that strain may be stuck to, just like finding your favorite food or drink. What makes a strain smell/taste so good? That would be the works of terpenes. But not all terpenes are equal, and some can be stronger than others. In addition, the amount of terpenes can also play a part in the effects of the strain overall.
Some terpenes are more common in sativa strains than others. Previously, Reefer Post has done a review of common terpenes found in indica strains.
Why Are Terpenes Important?
Terpenes are important in cannabis for many reasons. The most obvious is that they decide how an individual strain will taste and smell. But there are other reasons why they are present.
Other than cannabis, terpenes are used in a variety of products that we may use every day. Essential oils rely on terpenes to give off their soothing, calming effects (and any others they may offer). Terpenes are also present in some fruits and vegetables and are the reason that they smell the way that they do.
Certain terpenes can offer different effects that are felt when cannabis is consumed. For example, some have calming and sedative effects while others give off benefits to conditions such as inflammation, pain, stress, and others. Let’s take a look at three different terpenes below, all commonly found throughout sativa strains.
Pinene
First on our list, we have Pinene. This terpene is the most common terpene that exists. It is found in many cannabis strains, even some that are not sativa. In addition, pinene is found in other plants. It is also found in pine needles, hence where the name came from. Strains that smell similar to a pine forest most likely contain pinene.
Some scientists believe that pinene can improve memory and focus. It can also help to fight conditions such as anxiety, pain, inflammation, and even ulcers. Some patients with cancer even take it as a sort of treatment.
Five Popular Strains With This Terpene:
- Blue Dream
- God’s Gift
- Grape Ape
- OG Kush
- Mango Haze
Terpinolene
Next up, we have a terpene that almost sounds like the word terpene. This one is called terpinolene and is known for its uplifting effects. On a scale of terpenes, most are either sided with calming, sedative effects or uplifting, energetic effects. There is no doubt about the commitment of terpinolene to remain on the uplifting side of the scale.
This terpene is also found in apples, nutmeg, and lilacs. It can be used as an antioxidant or even an antibacterial. Terpinolene is known to have a very floral aroma. Know of the strain called Jack Herer? This strain is terpinolene-dominant, something to remember the next time you have some!
Five Popular Strains With This Terpene:
- Jack Herer
- Clementine
- Lemon Meringue
- Orange Cookies
- Dutch Treat
Limonene
Last, but not least, we have limonene. Can you guess where this one got its name? Lemons, of course! Not only is it known to taste and smell citrusy, but this terpene is also found in lemons and even oranges. Two common strains that contain limonene are Wedding Cake and Strawberry Banana.
Unlike most other terpenes, limonene is known to support other terpenes. That is, allow less-common terpenes to be present and felt, instead of being countered or not active at all. Besides that, limonene can help to reduce both stress and anxiety.
Five Popular Strains With This Terpene:
- Wedding Cake
- Strawberry Banana
- Do-Si-Dos
- Tahoe OG
- Banana OG
FAQ: Terpenes Of Sativa Strains
A1: Terpenes are the molecules that give plants and herbs their unique aromas and flavors. They are responsible for the distinctive tastes and smells of different cannabis varieties, including Sativa strains.
A2: Terpenes play an important role in the effects of different cannabis varieties. Sativa strains typically contain higher levels of energizing and uplifting terpenes such as limonene and pinene, which can make them more invigorating and stimulating.
A3: In addition to providing energizing and uplifting effects, terpenes found in Sativa strains may also have anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties.
Sativa lovers can now rejoice at these wonderful terpenes in their strains! Which one was your favorite? Of course, there are many, many more terpenes out there. The ones listed in this post are most commonly found in sativa-dominant strains. Next time you taste pine, floral, or citrus in your buds, you may have one of these terpenes present. Thanks for reading!
Source: https://www.thestranger.com/weed/2018/11/08/35236014/the-four-terpenes-every-stoner-should-know
