what are terpenes in weed

Terpenes are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants, including cannabis, and some animals. They are responsible for the aromas, flavors, and even colors associated with various types of vegetation. In cannabis, terpenes are what make certain strains smell or taste different from others. They are the primary constituents of essential oils in plants and are produced in the flower and leaves of the cannabis plant. Each strain of cannabis has a unique terpene profile, which contributes to its distinctive aroma and flavor. Terpenes are thought to protect plants from harsh weather and predators, and they potentially work in synergy with cannabinoids and other cannabis plant compounds to produce psychoactive effects. There are about 400 known terpenes in cannabis, and some of them have been linked to specific effects, such as potential anti-inflammatory effects, chronic pain relief, and management of symptoms of anxiety and depression. Terpenes may offer medical marijuana patients a variety of therapeutic properties, and researchers are increasingly looking at terpenes as a way to classify cannabis products and predict their effects. Terpenes are organic hydrocarbons that occur naturally in the essential oils of plants, and they are a combination of carbon and hydrogen. While the exact effects of terpenes on humans are still being studied, they are known to have various therapeutic attributes, including analgesic, anti-anxiety, and anti-inflammatory properties. Terpenes may also have pain-relieving properties without themselves being cannabinoids, and they are being considered as a potential alternative for treating pain without the psychoactive effects of THC. Overall, terpenes are an integral aspect of cannabis as a plant and medicine, defining the flavor and aroma of different strains and potentially influencing the therapeutic effects of cannabis products.