Terpenes are organic hydrocarbons that occur naturally in the essential oils of plants. They are responsible for the aromas, flavors, and even colors associated with various types of vegetation, including cannabis. Terpenes are not unique to cannabis, in fact, they make up the largest percentage of aromatic oils contained in most plants, foods, and herbs. Terpenes are produced in the trichomes, which are small, translucent hair-like structures that cover the cannabis plant.

Terpenes are widely used as fragrances and flavors in consumer products such as perfumes, cosmetics, and cleaning products, as well as food and drink products. They are also used in the production of polymers as catalysts. Many common terpenes found in the botanical world, like camphor and menthol, may have medicinal benefits.

Terpenes are thought to protect plants from harsh weather and predators. In humans, terpenes are believed to potentially work in synergy with cannabinoids and other cannabis plant compounds to produce psychoactive effects. While terpenes aren’t intoxicating on their own, some are considered to be psychoactive because they affect the brain. Terpenes won’t make you feel high in the traditional sense, but some think they may impact the effects of THC, the cannabinoid responsible for the high feeling from cannabis.

In summary, terpenes are organic hydrocarbons that occur naturally in the essential oils of plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the aromas, flavors, and even colors associated with various types of vegetation. Terpenes are widely used as fragrances and flavors in consumer products and have potential medicinal benefits. They are believed to potentially work in synergy with cannabinoids and other cannabis plant compounds to produce psychoactive effects.