WTF is a Terpene?

It would seem that everyone would know what a terpene is. Especially since the word has become synonymous with cannabis. 

But the reality is, a lot of people actually have no clue what terpenes are - rather, they don’t know that they know what they are.

There are over 20,000 terpenes found in nature, and they are responsible for things like the zest of an orange, and the calming effects of lavender.

Simply put: terpenes are highly aromatic chemical entities that help define the smell; taste; and in some cases, the survival of plants. You will often hear the word “terpenoid” used interchangeably with terpene, but terpenoids are not the same as terpenes. Terpenoids are the oxidized version of terpenes. For instance, in the production of cannabis — terpenes are moved, removed, or oxygen atoms are added, and they then become terpenoids.

Because of their potent aromas and healing properties, terpenes and terpenoids serve as the primary constituents of essential oils. Whether we want to feel energized, calm, happy, or sleepy - we have terpenes to thank. And as it relates to cannabis, many connoisseurs believe that terpenes work, either alone or synergistically, with cannabinoids to enhance or tone down the benefits of a given strain.