Benefits of Cannabinoids and Terpenes
Cannabis is so much more than just THC and CBD, this plant contains a symphony of natural compounds that work together to create each unique pallet of effects.
If you’ve ever wondered why one strain gives you a boost of energy, while another melts you into the couch, the answer lies in cannabinoids and terpenes.
Here, we’ll break down these intriguing compounds, their benefits, and why they matter more than THC potency when you’re selecting your go-to strains and cannabis products.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds in cannabis that interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system, affecting everything from your mood to your pain levels. While THC and CBD often get the spotlight, there are over 200 cannabinoids in cannabis, each offering its own unique benefits. This is because THC is the psychoactive heavy hitter, giving you that signature psychedelic high. CBD targets physical and mental well-being, offering therapeutic benefits like stress relief and anti-inflammatory properties without any of the buzz. Both of these cannabinoids occur in abundance, making their effects very prominent in the overall effects of cannabis.
But don’t sleep on the minor cannabinoids like CBN, CBC, CBG, and THCV, because they are known to bring some serious perks too. We refer to these other cannabinoids as minor cannabinoids, due to the fact they are found in smaller concentrations within cannabis flowers and extracts.
Though they may not be as abundant as CBD or THC, minor cannabinoids can offer their own benefits that enhance the effects of the major cannabinoids. CBN is your best friend when it’s time to sleep because it is known to have relaxing effects, while CBC has a reputation of helping with inflammation and lifting your mood. CBG shows promise with easing pain and promoting healthy cell growth: a vital support for your body’s natural healing process. As for THCV? It could become your go-to if you’re looking to curb your appetite as it’s credited for suppressing hunger.
Together, these cannabinoids work in harmony to create a brilliant spectrum of effects, supporting physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds found in cannabis (and many other plants). They give strains their signature scents and flavors, from zesty citrus and deep pine, to floral and woody musk. No matter the source, botanical terpenes and essential oils are known to offer a wide range of benefits that help support soothing physical and mental discomfort, restoring balance, and even protecting the immune system, like in thieves oil.
You’ve already encountered terpenes in daily life! They’re found in:
The floral notes of chamomile
The spice of black pepper
The fresh zing of citrus rinds
The soothing sensation of lavender
The sharpness of pine and spruce
The musk of a mango’s skin
The depth of cloves
The sweetness of roses and citronella
In addition to their tasty and aromatic appeal, terpenes also play a crucial role in shaping the effects of cannabis. These aromatic compounds interact with cannabinoids to create a pallet of effects. This is known as the Entourage Effect, the dynamic interplay that enhances or balances every cannabis experience.
Popular Cannabis Terpenes & Their Benefits
When exploring the many benefits of cannabis, terpenes are often more important than THC potency in terms of effects. There are more than 250 terpenes and aromatic compounds found in cannabis, though there are 12 terpenes that occur in greater abundance. Each offers its own twist of flavor and experience, bringing to life the wide spectrum of cannabis benefits.
The 12 Primary Terpenes in Cannabis
Bisabolol – Delicate, floral, and soothing
Beta-Caryophyllene – Spicy, with potential anti-inflammatory benefits
Myrcene – Earthy, known for deep relaxation
Nerolidol – Woodsy, associated with calming effects
Ocimene – Sweet, linked to uplifting effects
Geraniol – Floral and antioxidant-rich
Guaiol – Piney, fresh, and invigorating
Humulene – Hoppy, with potential appetite-suppressing properties
Limonene – Citrus-forward, often mood-boosting
Linalool – Lavender-like, known for its calming effects
Pinene – Crisp and piney, great for focus
Terpinolene – Fruity and energetic
How Terpenes and Cannabinoids Shape Your Experience
Cannabinoids may set the foundation, but terpenes fine-tune the effects. That’s why two strains with identical THC levels can feel completely different. At Good Day Farm we like to categorize cannabis strains into six easy-to-understand groups based on terpene and cannabinoid profiles to help guide your experience:
Energy: Strains with an energy-boosting profile, like Super Lemon Haze, are perfect for days when you need to tackle your to-do list. They combine uplifting terpenes like limonene and terpinolene with a burst of citrus flavor, help support you feeling motivated and focused.
Happiness: For those moments when you need a mood lift, happiness-focused strains like Kool Whip and Tire Fire work wonders. With terpenes like limonene, caryophyllene, and linalool, they evoke a warm, comforting vibe and a citrusy, creamy flavor that feels like a friendly hug.
Rest: A strain like Grape Pie x Gelato 41 is ideal for winding down. The earthy, fruity flavors from myrcene and guaiol help promote deep relaxation, easing your mind and preparing you for a restful sleep.
Relaxation: Known for their full-body unwinding effects, strains like Carbon Candy #4 and Coka offer a calming, sweet profile with terpenes like nerolidol and limonene. The satisfying flavors of sugar cookies and sour grapes create the perfect atmosphere for a cozy evening in.
Unwind: Mellow and balanced strains, like Watermelon Gushers, are all about taking the edge off. With a candy-like fruity flavor and a terpene blend of limonene and caryophyllene, this category promotes a relaxed state of mind without feeling too heavy.
Soothe: Strains like Kumquat are known to calm and comfort, blending together herbaceous terpenes like humulene and linalool. The citrus honey flavor with a hint of spice contributes to a soothing experience that helps you relax and unwind after a busy day.
A Spectrum of Flavor and Effects Await
When it comes to its benefits, cannabis is like a puzzle, and its cannabinoids and terpenes are the pieces that come together to create a one-of-a-kind experience. With over 450 known cannabinoids and terpenes, the cannabis plant offers a spectrum of effects, allowing you to find a strain that perfectly matches your needs.
From feel-good creative bursts to relaxing deep dives, each combination brings its own magic, fine-tuning the experience in ways that reach beyond a basic high.
Good cannabis has never been just about THC percentage. Cannabinoids and terpenes blend together, creating a harmonious entourage effect that makes every strain or product one-of-a-kind.
Want to find your match? Explore Good Day Farm’s curated strains and experience the full spectrum of cannabis benefits.