What are cannabis’ terpenes (and how can I maximize their effects in my grow)?

Terpene is becoming a more common word in cannabis dispensaries. But what exactly are Terpenes? And how do they affect me, and you? The simplest answer is Terpenes provide cannabis with its unique smells and flavours.

These terpenes are more than just an ingredient that affects the taste and smell. Terpenes in cannabis may also have an effect on your high. Many people believe that an Indica will produce a relaxing high, while a Sativa will give them an energetic high. It all comes down to the different terpenes in cannabis.

What are Terpenes, and what do they do?

Terpenes refer to essential oils from the cannabis plant. There is more than one hundred varieties. Each one can be distinctive in smell and taste. Different strains of marijuana will have their own unique terpenes.

Cannabis, as with many other plants evolved terpenes for protection against predators and to attract pollinators. There are many factors which influence how many cannabis plants release terpenes. These factors include: light schedule, growth condition, nutrients in the soil and age.

As I explained, these terpenes react to outside stimuli. This knowledge can be very helpful when growing cannabis. It can also have an impact on the quality and smell of your product. These details are covered further in the article.

What’s so special in cannabis terpenes

The maximum amount of THC has been found in cannabis. This is what was done over the last several decades. Because cannabis producers tried so hard to create super “powerful”, canniboids like CBD, they have lost the battle to produce other cannibanoids. The prohibition has resulted in more research into the effects of cannanibinoids on brain function.
Like cannibanoids in that they bind with receptors in your brain, terpenes produce different effects. These effects include energy, sleepiness or euphoria.
They can affect your “high” but they also have medical properties. Terpenes’ most prominent medical properties are analgesic and anti-inflammatory.

Also, terpenes vaporize differently at different temperatures. You may have tried vaping before. Vaporizing cannabis at a lower or higher heat setting can give you benefits. Some terpenes might not burn as quickly in a joint.

How can I maximize the terpenes of my cannabis plants

Now that you’re more aware of what terpenes are and how they work, what can be done to get more of them in your plants.
As I stated earlier, external conditions can alter terpene output. Cannabis responds to stimuli by releasing terpenes that protect it from stress. A good way to increase the production of terpenes is to lightly stress your plants. Attention! Stressing too hard on your plants can result in their death. Take it slow with these techniques so that you don’t damage your plant. Here are some tips to maximize your terpene yield.

Stress your plants

Low stress training is the process of gradually bending your plants. This allows light and air to reach more parts of the plant. It will produce more buds over time. Terpenes can be produced from the buds. Therefore, more buds is better for producing terpenes.
Defoliating leaves during flowering will reduce stress for your plant and allow more light to your buds. This will increase growth. Take it slow. Some strains may not be able to tolerate too many leaves. Start by removing lower leaves. Watch how the plant reacts.
Damaging just a few leaves can create a safe amount stress for your plants. Lower leaves, which do not receive much light, can be torn, the tips removed, or crumpled.

Low Nitrogen Fertilizer

A high level of nitrogen can reduce bud production. It is best to use a full NPK fertiliser with low levels. This product is called Reefertilizer . It has very low levels of nitrogen that will aid overall growth. It also contains plenty of potassium, phosphorus, and many micronutrients that are great for bud development. As your buds grow older, they will produce more of these terpenes. Give your buds every nutrition possible to maximize their yields and terpene-production.

Keep the Temperature At A Low Level

When your flowering stage is complete, ensure that the temperature in your grow area stays below 26°C. Some terpenes have volatile properties and can evaporate at higher temperatures. Keep the temperature at 5°C during the daylight hours.

Always Cure Your Harvested Bud

Many beginners love to take a quick route to harvest ( I did it when I first started). It’s been a long time, but now it seems you will have to wait. You can preserve the aroma and taste of terpenes by drying your buds gently and slowly. Curing your marijuana will help to reduce any extra nutrients and chemicals. Are you curious about non-cured cannabis? The taste is harsh and bland. After curing, your vaping experience will improve greatly. Curing is essential for terpenes to be increased.

The most prevalent terpenes that can be found in cannabis are

Myrcene:

It is the most used terpene within cannabis. It is also called the “couchlock” or “couchlock terpene due to its highly-sedative effect. It is also found in mango, lemongrass, and thyme.

Limonene:

It is common in peppermint as well as citrus.

Terpinolene

A smokey and woody aroma, which is anti-cancer, anti-cancer, sedative, and antibacterial. It can also been found in lilac, apples, and nuts.

Beta-Caryophyllene:

It acts as a gastroprotective agent and an anti-inflammatory. It can be found as a spice in cinnamon and black pepper.

Alpha-Pinene:

This terpene can be energetically and therapeutically used in rosemary, pine needles and basil.

Humulene:

This anti-inflammatory is strong and also acts as a hunger-suppressent. It’s also present in hops and coriander.