Terpenes vs. Cannabinoids: What’s the Difference?

The cannabis plant consists of two compounds called terpenes and cannabinoids. While the two are mostly used in combination, that doesn’t mean they’re similar in any way. For one, the chemical structure for both of them is different. Then there are differences in effects, legality, and sources.

A cannabis plant

Now, if you’re looking to buy terpene strain profiles, you need to know what makes them different.

Terpenes

These are non-intoxicating compounds that can be found in cannabis sativa as well as other plants. However, they’re different from cannabinoids because they aren’t exclusive to the cannabis plant.

Terpenes from the cannabis plant have a similar chemical structure to the ones found in any other plant. This means there’s almost no difference between the limonene terpene found in the cannabis plant and one found inside an orange peel.

These compounds have various effects. Some of them can fight infections, while others have antioxidant properties. Popular terpenes include limonene, caryophyllene, myrcene, linalool, and bisabolol.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids only exist in cannabis plants. They share structural similarities with several terpenes and plant-derived compounds. Some of the most commonly known cannabinoids include CBD, CBG, THC, CBC, and CBN.

 

Every cannabinoid has various forms, and new ones are still being discovered. Some cannabinoids possess intoxicating effects, while others have subtler effects on your body.

Can Terpenes Work Like Cannabinoids?

Although both the compounds are found inside the cannabis plant, some terpenes work similarly to cannabinoids. Terpenes may cause relaxation and pain relief, according to anecdotal evidence. However, terpenes are not psychoactive, like THC is known to be.

 

There’s a clear link between terpenes and cannabinoids. It’s possible that cannabinoids are a mutation of terpenes exclusively developed by the cannabis sativa plant, but the jury’s still out on the matter.

Do Both Terpenes And Cannabinoids Work Together?

Combining both cannabinoids and best-tasting terpenes can have latent benefits which could otherwise be dormant. Research has shown that terpenes play a significant role in creating the entourage effect.  The effect only gets stronger when both terpenes and cannabinoids are consumed together.

The cannabis plant

So, if you’re looking to buy terpene strains in CA, Michigan, Colorado, or Florida, Gold Coast Terpenes is your best option to buy natural terpenes for cannabis. Our high-quality products don’t disappoint. Contact us today for more information.

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