Have you ever walked into a room and instantly caught that unmistakable scent of weed? Whether it’s earthy, skunky, fruity, or straight dank – cannabis has a unique aroma that’s hard to ignore.

But what gives weed its unique and infamous smell? Hint: it’s not just one answer!

Dive into the science of terpenes, and the different aromas of cannabis, plus learn how to break down the compounds behind the smell. Explore how you can identify cannabis cultivars by their scent at Stem Haverhill.

 

Defining Aromatic Compounds in Cannabis

The smell of cannabis comes from a mix of microscopic natural aromatic compounds found within the bud or flower of the plant. These compounds are primarily identified as terpenes and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These aromatic compounds interact with other compounds and cannabinoids in the flowers to create the plant’s complex fragrance.

 

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are organic compounds found in many plants, not just cannabis. Aside from cannabis, you’ll find terpenes in anything like lavender, pine trees, and citrus fruits.

In cannabis, terpenes serve two key purposes:

  1. Aroma: They define the plant’s scent and flavor profile.
  2. Effects: However, in cannabis, terpenes do more than make the plant smell good – they also influence the effects you feel when consumed. 

 

Think of terpenes as a musical orchestra – each individual terpene present in cannabis is like its own musical instrument. On its own, the terpene will have a unique aroma profile. When combined together with other compounds and terpenes, a melodic symphony is conducted.

 

The Entourage Effect

This is widely known as The Entourage Effect—a theory that proves that the effects of cannabis are influenced by the number and content of terpenes, cannabinoids, and compounds making up the flower.

 

Other Aromatic & Volatile Compounds Found in Cannabis

In addition to terpenes, cannabis contains other volatile organic compounds like esters, thiols, and flavonoids.

Thiols

  • These organic sulfur-containing compounds are what give cannabis its pungent, sulfuric, also called “skunky” odor.
  • The content and amount of thiols identified in cannabis depend on various external factors, including the phenotype and the genetic expression of the plant.

Flavonoids

  • More subtle in aroma than thiols, flavonoids can contribute to the overall aroma and flavor of the plant.
  • Studies suggest flavonoids are rich in antioxidants and can help your body ward off everyday toxins. Foods high in flavonoids include dark chocolate, bananas, wine, tea, berries, and even broccoli.

Esters

  • Esters are natural compounds in cannabis that help create its unique smell and taste.
  • Some common ester scents in cannabis include grape, apple, and floral tones. They’re like the finishing touches that make each strain smell special and unique.

 

5 Common Terpenes & Their Aromatic Profiles

Here are five common terpenes you’re likely to encounter in cannabis sold on our MA dispensary shelves:

  1. Myrcene:
    • Aroma: Earthy, musky, with a hint of clove.
    • Found in: Mangoes, basil, hops.
    • Known for: calming effects, myrcene is often found in indica strains.
  2. Limonene:
  3. Caryophyllene:
    • Aroma: Spicy, peppery, woody.
    • Found in: Black pepper, cloves.
    • Known for: Uniquely interacting with cannabinoid receptors, adding potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
  4. Pinene:
    • Aroma: Pine, fresh forest.
    • Found in: Pine needles, and rosemary.
    • Known for: May help with focus and memory.
  5. Linalool:
  6. Aroma: Floral, lavender, slightly spicy.
  7. Found in: Lavender.
  8. Known for: relaxing, anti-anxiety properties.

 

How to Identify Cannabis by Aroma

The scent of cannabis isn’t just for an enjoyable fragrance – it’s also a handy way to identify quality and help determine the effects that will follow! If you’re looking to sharpen your senses and learn how to identify cannabis by aroma, consider these tips:

  • Take a Whiff: Gently squeeze the bud and take a whiff of the aroma released. Pay attention to the initial notes and layered scents present.
  • Smell for Complexity: High-quality cannabis often has a layered aroma, with multiple terpenes working together.
  • Match the Scent to Effects: Determine the notes you can identify. Do you smell something more citrusy or more herbal and skunky? If you’re smelling something more citrusy, you might expect an uplifting high. Earthy or herbal notes might indicate a more relaxing strain.

 

Shop Aromatic Cannabis at Stem Haverhill

Ready to explore the diverse aromas of cannabis for yourself? At our Haverhill dispensary, we take pride in curating a premium selection of aromatic cannabis, packed with terpene-rich profiles that highlight the best of what each strain has to offer. Whether you’re seeking citrusy, uplifting notes or earthy, calming aromas, our shelves are stocked with options to suit every preference and need.

Visit our MA dispensary to shop flower by aroma and experience firsthand how scent can guide you to the perfect strain. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help you discover cannabis that matches your taste and desired effects, ensuring an exceptional cannabis experience every time. Let your senses lead the way!

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.