Terpenes Explained: A Complete Guide for Dabbing & Flavor

Terpenes are an important part of the equation when it comes to the type of high you'll experience. Certain terpenes will promote feelings of relaxation, while others give you more of a mood boost, some even make you feel more creative! THC is only one part of the big picture. THC, other cannabinoids, and terpenes all work together to deliver the specific effect you're looking for.

What is the Entourage Effect?

These three components working together creates something called the “entourage effect”. I feel it's crucial that you know what the definition of the word entourage is, to understand what the entourage effect does.The word entourage means "to surround" in French. An entourage is there to bolster and elevate the principal figure. Picture THC as the lead performer with terpenes and other cannabinoids as the supporting cast. A legendary event is born out of their mutual support and collaboration.

Terpenes are naturally present in flower and since concentrates are a more “concentrated” version of regular cannabis, it's safe to say wax will have a higher terpene content. Newer dabbing devices with precise temperature control (ability to vaporize at lower temperatures), gave people a new found respect for terpenes and the way they shape each and every dabbing experience!

What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are naturally occurring and are found in all different types of plants, they are not exclusive to cannabis. You can find terpenes in lavender, lemon peel, pine needles, and other common household herbs like black pepper and thyme. These compounds give off a specific scent and a flavor, although they are sometimes confused, terpenes are very different from cannabinoids.

What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids attach to the receptors in your body, fostering the feeling of being “high”. THC is a type of cannabinoid, however we list it separately since it is the main compound that produces psychoactive effects. Other popular cannabinoids like CBD, CBN, and CBG are not psychoactive on their own, but when combined with THC they boost the most common side effects of THC. Such as, relaxation, reduced anxiety, sedative effects, and reducing aches and pains.

Potential Uses for Terpenes

Terpenes frame out the experience of cannabinoids, they offer support and direct certain sensations. Unlike cannabinoids, most terpenes do not bind to your CB receptors, there is only one terpene that is an exception called caryophyllene. Other terpenes can stimulate your receptors to increase your high or they can block certain receptors changing the way cannabinoids are able to bind to your system. Some terpenes interact with gaba receptors such as linalool, this may actually boost gaba activity. This can possibly help with reducing anxiety, promoting better sleep, and is shown in animal studies to act as an anticonvulsant for animals that suffer from seizures.

Limonene is known for its “mood boosting effects” creating an uplifting feeling. It has been shown in preclinical studies to influence serotonin and dopamine. Some animal studies suggest that limonene can increase serotonin and dopamine signals to produce anti anxiety effects. In preclinical trials limonene is shown to possibly reverse stimulant induced dopamine increases. Limonene can potentially be used as a therapy for reducing stimulant dependence one day.

*Research into these mechanisms is ongoing, and these effects have not yet been confirmed in human clinical studies.*

They can refine a sense of calmness and relaxation, but also can promote an energized uplifting effect as well! It all depends on the type of terpene! This is why THC isn't the only factor to consider when choosing a strain that works for you, two dabs with the same THC content can invoke totally different feelings even though their THC percentage is the same!

Common Terpenes and Their Effects:

Why is it Beneficial to Combine Cannabinoids and Terpenes with THC?

THC on its own can bring about feelings of anxiousness or paranoia, the experience can be super intense and uncomfortable. Cannabinoids and terpenes help to balance out the effect of THC on its own, providing a smoother, more relaxed feeling instead of being “in your head” the entire time.

Why are Low Temperature Dabs Beneficial

Terpenes are activated at lower temperature releasing their aroma and their intended effects, this is why lower temperatures provide a more full flavor dab with a more enjoyable high. Although they are activated at lower temperatures, they are also broken down with high temperatures. High temps will completely destroy terpenes which don't allow you to reap the benefits and the well balanced experience most people are looking to achieve!

Can Terpenes Degrade Over Time?

Yes, terpenes are sensitive to high temperatures as mentioned above, and like THC they are also sensitive to light and oxygen exposure causing them to degrade when they are not well protected.

How to Preserve Your THC and Terpenes?

Keep your concentrates in a proper storage jar that is meant for wax materials. Silicone dab jars are totally fine, a glass airtight container is usually best for long term storage. Be sure to leave your wax in a cool, dark environment, don't leave your stash out in the sun!

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