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Cannabis vape cartridge weed carts, or THC cartridges, have surged in popularity in recent years. The most exciting aspect of these convenient, discreet devices is the incredible variety of flavours. Much more than just “weed flavour,” the taste and aroma of each cart are determined by its unique blend of terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found throughout nature in many plants, from conifers to citrus fruits. They are a significant component of essential oils and give plants like lavender, mint, and basil their distinctive scents. In the cannabis plant, terpenes are produced in the sticky, crystalline trichomes on the surface of the buds, alongside cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
While thc cartridge are responsible for the psychoactive and many of the medicinal effects of cannabis, terpenes also play a significant role. They interact synergistically with the cannabinoids and each other in the “entourage effect.” This means the effects and benefits of a particular strain depend on its unique combination of cannabinoids and terpenes working together. It also means that two carts with the same THC percentage produce noticeably different effects depending on which terpenes are present. Some terpenes are uplifting and energizing, while others are relaxing and sedating. Some enhance focus and creativity, while others promote rest and stress relief.
The distinctive flavours of cannabis strains and carts mostly come from the terpenes. Different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant, and other strains contain various combinations of these, leading to a wide array of flavour profiles.
- Myrcene – This earthy, musky terpene is the most abundant one found in modern commercial cannabis strains. It has relaxing, sedating effects and is thought to enhance the psychoactive potency of THC. Myrcene is also found in hops, thyme, mango, and lemongrass. Cannabis strains and carts high in myrcene tend to have an intensely earthy, almost clove-like flavour.
- Limonene – As the name suggests, limonene has a citrusy aroma and is also found in the rinds of lemons and other citrus fruits. It tends to have energizing and mood-elevating effects. Cannabis products high in limonene will have a lemony-citrus flavour.
- Caryophyllene: This spicy terpene is also found in black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and herbs like oregano and basil. It has a peppery, slightly woody scent. Caryophyllene engages with the body’s endocannabinoid system and is thought to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Pinene: Another prevalent terpene, pinene has a fresh pine scent and is abundant in conifer trees, sage, and rosemary. It promotes focus and alertness and may counteract some of the short-term memory impairment associated with THC. Cannabis products high in pinene will have a piney, foresty flavour profile.
- Linalool – This terpene has a floral aroma reminiscent of lavender and is thought to have sedating, stress-relieving effects. It’s also present in mint, cinnamon, and birch trees. Cannabis highs in linalool will have a notable floral scent and flavour.
- Terpinolene – Less common than others, terpinolene has an herbal, floral aroma and is also found in lilac, nutmeg, cumin, and apples. Its effects are described as uplifting and mildly sedating.
- Humulene: This terpene is also present in hops and coriander and has an earthy, spicy, subtly bitter aroma. Effects associated with it include appetite suppression and anti-inflammation.
- Ocimene: Found also in mint, parsley, and orchids, ocimene has a complex sweet, herbal, and woodsy aroma. It is thought to have uplifting, energizing effects.
