At Shore House Canna, premier Jersey Shore dispensary, we want to make sure you get exactly the experience you are looking for. That’s why we include extensive information about the cannabinoids and terpenes in our products. But we realized something: not everyone is going to know how to interpret this information!
That’s where this blog comes in. We will break down the meaning behind all the terms you’ll run into so you can make more informed decisions. Let’s get into it!
What are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. Each cannabinoid has its own unique properties and potential effects. These compounds are key to the diverse experiences and benefits that cannabis offers.
Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors that regulate various physiological processes like mood, appetite, and pain. Understanding cannabinoids can help you guess if a strain will offer relaxation, relief, creativity, or a good night’s sleep.
Turning to Terpenes
Cannabinoids are only half of the equation when it comes to choosing a cannabis strain or product.
Enter: terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic compounds in cannabis and most other plants as well. Terpenes define the varied scents of the cannabis strains, from sweet florals to zesty citrus.
Beyond their sensory appeal, terpenes interact with cannabinoids to enhance and influence the overall effects of cannabis, a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
The entourage effect theorizes that terpenes and cannabinoids work together, enhancing and modifying each other’s effects. This synergy is why the specific terpene profile of a cannabis strain can lead to a unique experience. Keep an eye out for these terpenes, as they’re the most common:
- Myrcene: Known for its earthy, herbal aroma, myrcene is often associated with relaxing effects, making it a common choice for those seeking a calming experience.
- Limonene: With its bright, citrusy scent, limonene is believed to uplift the mood and may provide stress relief and anti-anxiety benefits.
- Pinene: As the name suggests, pinene has a fresh pine aroma. It’s thought to enhance alertness and memory retention, offering a more invigorating experience.
- Caryophyllene: This terpene offers a spicy, peppery aroma. Unlike other terpenes, it can also interact with the ECS, potentially offering anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Linalool: Reminiscent of lavender, linalool is known for its calming properties and is often sought after for stress relief and relaxation.
- Humulene: Found in hops, humulene has an earthy, woody scent. It’s believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and appetite-suppressing properties.
- Terpinolene: With a complex aroma of pine, floral, herb, and citrus, terpinolene is often found in uplifting strains and may have antioxidant properties.
- Ocimene: This terpene is characterized by a sweet, herbal, and woody aroma. It’s thought to have decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Interpreting Percentages of Cannabinoids & Terpenes
Now that we’ve covered the basics, we navigate through the percentages of cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis products. We want to empower you with the knowledge of these numbers, so let’s get started.
Understanding Cannabinoid Percentages
The percentage of a cannabinoid (like THC or CBD) on a product label indicates its concentration by weight. For example, a flower with 15% THC contains 150 mg of THC per gram of cannabis.
High percentages of THC (usually more than 20-25%) are often associated with more potent psychoactive effects, while lower percentages might offer a milder experience. CBD percentages, on the other hand, can indicate the potential for therapeutic effects without the psychoactive impact.
Terpenes by the Numbers
Terpenes are typically present in lower percentages than cannabinoids. However, even in small amounts, they significantly influence a product’s aroma, flavor, and effects.
Higher concentrations of a specific terpene might result in more pronounced effects. For example, a strain with a high myrcene level might be more relaxing, while one with high limonene might be more uplifting.
Tips for Interpretation
- The Synergistic Relationship: It’s not just about the individual percentages but how cannabinoids and terpenes interact. This interaction can alter the overall effect of the product, emphasizing the importance of considering both.
- Personal Preferences & Tolerances: Everyone’s response to cannabinoids and terpenes can vary. Start with lower concentrations if you’re new to cannabis, and observe how you react before trying products with higher percentages.
- Find Your Focus: Decide what you’re looking for in a cannabis product – relaxation, pain relief, creativity boost, etc. Use that to guide your choices.
- Consult Our Experts: Our staff at Shore House Canna is always ready to help you understand our product labels and make an educated choice based on your preferences and needs.
Shore House Canna Adult-Use Dispensary — Always Helping You Make Educated Decisions to Enhance Your Experience
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge to comprehend the nuanced world of cannabis, we invite you to bring this newfound understanding to your next visit to Shore House Canna, either in person or by browsing online.
Delight yourself in the details of each strain’s cannabinoid and terpene profile, and make educated decisions to enhance your experience. See you soon at Shore House Canna, where education meets experience, and every choice is an adventure.
*The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.*
As Shore House Canna always says Start with Low and Slow!