Featured terpenes: Spicy aromas

Featured terpenes: Spicy aromas

Did you know terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give spices such as ginger, pepper, and cumin their unique aroma?

What are terpenes?

Also found in cannabis, terpenes are chemicals that are created and stored in the trichomes of the cannabis plant, along with cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

There are more than 200 terpenes in cannabis with aromas ranging from spicy to citrusy, minty and herbal. This article features cannabis products with spicy terpenes such as borneol, caryophyllene, cymene, sabinene, and terpinene.

Cannabis users have indicated that the type of terpene found in different strains can be associated with various effects. The exact effects of terpenes on their own, and within cannabis, are the subject of ongoing research and remain undetermined, but spicy terpenes are thought to have a rousing, invigorating, and warming effect.

Remember, what works for others may not work for you. Educating yourself and cautious experimentation will help you find your way.

What are some common spicy terpenes?

Borneol  with its minty and spicy notes, is thought of as an invigorating terpene, and is found in a number of aromatic herbs including rosemary, mint, ginger, mugwort, tarragon, camphor, and wormwood.

Caryophyllene is thought of as a balancing terpene common in herbs and spices such as basil, oregano, hops, rosemary, cloves, caraway, black pepper, and cinnamon. It commonly presents notes of spice and pepper.

Cymene is thought to be a centering terpene, and has woody, spicy and citrus notes. It’s found in herbs and spices such as coriander, oregano, thyme, and cumin. 

Sabinene has a spicy, piney and citrusy aroma, and is thought of as a rousing terpene. It’s commonly found in black pepper, basil, and spruce.

Terpinene can be found in many citrus fruits, allspice, cardamom, and juniper. It’s spicy, citrusy scent is thought to be warming.

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