Before buying your favourites, you might wonder what makes them great. Where do their unique profiles come from? Well, terpenes give our cannabis products the amazing aromas and flavours they are known for.
As the knowledge of terpenes amongst the average cannabis consumer grows, the language needs to adapt with it. We created FEAT to provide consumers with a structured method of explanation that can apply across all terpenes - paving the way of how we communicate with our customers. The two categories of marijuana strains are Indica and Sativa. Indica strains provide relaxation, and Sativa strains are known for their energizing highs. The variety of terpene present is determined by whether it’s the primary or secondary ingredient.
It’s time to explain FEAT! The abbreviation stands for:
- Function
- Entourage Effect
- Aroma
- Taste
The four components are present in any terpene, including those found in cannabis and regular plants. Now, let’s talk about why each part matters.
Function
How do terpenes interact with the human body and other cannabinoids? You have questions, and we have answers! Terpenes mainly affect the serotonin and dopamine systems inside your brain. In turn, the right terpenes can boost your mood, prevent paranoia and give you a better night’s sleep. Although the effects vary between individuals, consumption can have a placebo effect. That’s because the body finds the odours to be stimulating. Terpenes work with other cannabinoids by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Alongside enzymes and naturally-produced cannabinoids, they maintain homeostasis in the body. It affects aspects such as body temperature and fluid balance. Additionally, they can alter the effects of other cannabinoids, such as THC.
Entourage Effect
Terpenes work by using something called the Entourage Effect. What is that? What is the Entourage Effect, and what role do terpenes play? Essentially, active compounds within cannabis plants can boost their therapeutic effects. In turn, terpenes work with THC AND CBD to eliminate negative side effects. Basically, more than 80 cannabinoids and over 100 terpenes work as a team to cause synergy. In turn, terpenes and other ingredients inside the cannabis product improve its medical benefits and decrease anxiety, for example. The effects vary between strains.
Aroma
Although present in plants, you might wonder, “how do my products get their signature scent?” Terpenes give several cannabis products the aromas we all know and love. From citrus to spicey and herbal, the options are endless. Knowing your favourite aroma makes finding the product that suits your needs simpler. The main ingredients of terpenes come from the plant’s essential oils. These are produced by the glands that create cannabinoids known as trichomes. Cannabis plants often have high concentrations of terpenes. That’s why their aroma is so much stronger than those of other plants.
Taste
Where does my product’s signature taste from? Many cannabis products have diverse flavour profiles. The taste is one of the things you think about on your shopping trip. You guessed it! You can thank terpenes for providing you with a variety of choices. The combinations of ingredients are what make each product taste different. In conjunction with its aroma, the strain's taste makes using each one unique. That’s why terpenes are an important part of all cannabis products.
