If you break the seal off a new cart or crack open a jar every cannabis enthusiast will recognize the distinct, sharp scent. It’s more than just smell. It’s emotion, memory and mood all wrapped up in one. Terpenes can make this happen and are not other terpenes, just those that come from cannabis. Cannabis-derived compounds are known as terpenes, these compounds are rapidly becoming the key ingredient for anyone looking to improve the quality, flavor, and authenticity or overall product quality.
Image credit: massterpenes.com
For many years, the producers of cannabis-based products have relied heavily on botanical terpenes to replicate the essence of strains. On paper, this was sensible. The cost-effectiveness of extracting pinene and limonene, respectively from orange or pine trees allowed for the creation of strain profiles that were familiar. However, the results did not always live up to the hype. While initially smelling pleasant, these terpene mixtures often were lacking in depth, soul and staying power compared to their cannabis-sourced counterparts. These terpene mixtures also degraded fast and developed a smell that was more reminiscent of air fresheners.
It’s here that pure cannabis Terpenes make a difference. They’re derived directly from the cannabis plant and contain not only the dominant compounds which define a strain’s distinctive scent and taste, but also subtle support notes that botanical sources are unable to replicate. The goal is not to mimic flavor but rather the spirit of the cannabis plant.
One innovation pushing this even further is the use of live resin terpenes. To extract terpenes, plants are immediately frozen after harvesting. This quick-freeze method ensures the retention of volatile compounds that could otherwise be lost. This results in a terpene-profile that feels more vibrant, brighter intense, and more reminiscent of the original strain.
The benefits of cannabis-derived chemicals are obvious but they go far beyond the taste. These terpenes play a role in what scientists and consumers call the entourage affect that is the intricate interplay between cannabinoids with terpenes. For example a formulation containing true OG Kush terpenes not only tastes better, but it could also provide a balanced or familiar feeling thanks to the supporting compound preserved in the extract.
As consumer awareness grows and so does the need for transparency. Consumers don’t just look for high THC levels. Consumers are now consuming ingredient labels, analyzing their products and seeking Terpenes derived from cannabis that have specific sourcing information. Brands that adhere to the standards of offering strain-specific, uncut and unblended profiles of terpenes will be rewarded by industry trust and loyalty from customers.
This is especially important in a marketplace with so many choices. The authenticity of the products is increasingly important in a market where so many are trying to get attention. While artificial flavors and combinations of botanicals may pique people’s attention at first attempt, it’s the distinct taste of cannabis-derived compounds that keeps them coming back.
Mass Terpenes stands out as an industry leader, offering live resins or hemp-derived lines to suit different budgets. Their CDT series has become the preferred choice for extractors, vape producers, and customers alike all united by the desire to bring cannabis into its truest form.
It’s not all about smell. It’s all about the connections. Terpenes influence the experience of smoking after a hard day’s work more than many people realize. Pure cannabis-terpenes can help you develop a deeper and clearer connection with the plant. This is perhaps the most powerful component of all.
