When shopping for cannabis, many consumers are drawn to a single number on the label: THC potency. The higher the percentage, the better the product, right? Not necessarily. While potency can play a role in the cannabis experience, it’s far from the only factor worth considering.
Elements like terpene profiles, growing methods, extraction methods, and overall flavor can have an even greater impact on your experience. Exploring these elements opens the door to a more nuanced understanding of the factors that impact your cannabis experience and the flavor associated with each product. Here’s why flavor and terpenes are becoming the future of cannabis.
Why Terpenes Deserve the Spotlight
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds present in cannabis (and other plants) that give each strain its distinctive flavor and scent. These compounds make a citrusy Sativa bright and uplifting or give an earthy Indica its trademark soothing vibe. More than just providing flavor, terpenes can also influence the effects of cannabis.
The Rise of Flavor Over Potency
Cannabis is increasingly viewed like a fine wine or craft coffee, where the sensory experience matters as much as the results. The depth of flavor, aroma, and smoothness are just as critical as strength. The strongest product is not always the most enjoyable, and high-potency cannabis often sacrifices flavor for sheer THC content.
Consumers are beginning to prioritize strain-specific flavor profiles and balanced terpene blends over simple potency. Products like live resin extracts and full-spectrum concentrates, which preserve the plant’s natural essence, deliver a richer and more satisfying experience compared to products distilled for pure potency.
Extraction Methods Matter
For vape cartridges and concentrates, the extraction method is a key factor in retaining terpene content and flavor. Live resin extraction, which uses fresh frozen cannabis, preserves terpenes at their peak, capturing the plant’s essence.
If flavor is important to you, look for terms such as “live resin” or “full-spectrum” on the label. These methods aim to retain the original terpene profile and provide an authentic representation of the plant.
Strain Authenticity and Product Integrity
The question of authenticity is another important consideration when choosing cannabis. With the rise of isolated manufactured terpenes, some products may carry the name of a popular strain without truly replicating its flavor or effects. This happens when manufactured or reintroduced terpenes (i.e. botanical or cannabis derived terpenes, “CDT”) are used to mimic strain profiles, creating a flavor that may feel less nuanced or natural.
Prioritize products that mention strain-specific extraction or emphasize preserving the native terpene profile. These products tend to stay truer to the original plant, offering a more comprehensive flavor experience.
The Entourage Effect
Cannabinoids like THC and CBD often take center stage, but terpenes play a critical supporting role. The entourage effect describes how cannabinoids and terpenes interact to amplify or refine the overall effects. Consider how certain terpene profiles contribute to different experiences:
- Myrcene: common in Indica strains, is associated with calming and sedative effects. ● Limonene: with its citrusy aroma, can promote uplifting and energizing sensations.
- Pinene: known for its herbal, piney scent, may aid focus while offering a crisp flavor.
The interplay between terpenes and cannabinoids shapes the overall experience, making the terpene profile just as important as THC content. For instance, a strain with moderate THC and a balanced terpene profile can feel more enjoyable and well-rounded than a high-THC strain that lacks complexity.
But the science remains unsettled; a 2024 research review found little data to support the theory of the entourage effect being a reliable phenomenon. This suggests that most claims that cannabis compounds complement and amplify each other require further research.
Reading a Terpene Profile
Not all cannabis products include a detailed terpene profile on their packaging, but when they do, it’s a game-changer. Look for information on dominant terpenes, which can give you an idea of the flavor and potential effects. A few examples:
- Caryophyllene: Spicy and peppery, this terpene is believed to have anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Linalool: Known for its lavender-like aroma, it’s often tied to relaxation.
- Terpinolene: A fruity, herbal terpene associated with an uplifting and energetic experience.
- Myrcene: This earthy, musky terpene is believed to enhance the psychoactive effects of THC.
- Limonene: As the name suggests, this terpene has a citrusy aroma and may have mood-lifting properties.
Knowing a cannabis product’s terpene profile empowers you to make better choices about strains and products tailored to your needs. While research into the specific effects of terpenes is still evolving, pay attention to the dominant terpenes and flavor notes you experience when trying new cannabis products. This practice will guide you in selecting future products with similar terpene characteristics.
Tips for Buying Cannabis Beyond Potency
Here are practical tips to help you maximize your cannabis experience:
- Check the Terpenes: Look for products with a detailed terpene profile on the label. A strong terpene presence often signals better flavor and richer effects.
- Understand Your Preferences: Decide whether you enjoy fruity and citrus-forward flavors or earthy and herbal ones. Experiment to find your personal favorites.
- Review Labels for Extraction Methods:
- Live resin and full-spectrum concentrates retain natural terpenes and flavors.
- Distillates with botanicals or CDTs may mimic flavors but lack depth.
- Match Effects with Terpenes:
- Relaxing effects? Look for myrcene or linalool.
- Uplifting effects? Try limonene or terpinolene.
- Focus? Consider pinene.
- Experiment and Take Note: Not every strain or terpene profile will work for you. Start small and track how different products make you feel.
The Future of Cannabis is Flavor
The cannabis landscape is evolving, and so are the habits of its consumers. While THC potency will always be part of the conversation, it’s no longer the whole story. Flavor, terpene complexity, and strain authenticity are becoming the benchmarks of quality.
By looking beyond raw potency, you’ll discover nuances that enhance your cannabis experience, making it richer and more satisfying. The future of cannabis isn’t just about strength; it’s about capturing the full spectrum of what the plant has to offer. Explore the flavors, understand the terpenes, and make the most of your experience. Because cannabis, like any art, isn’t just about power–it’s about balance, depth, and character.
About the Author
Dylan Thiel is the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Dabstract, where he oversees operations, brand expansion, and product innovation across the brand. With over 10 years in cannabis extraction and product development, Dylan helped pioneer Dabstract’s signature Live Resin HTE and other early formulations. He brings a hands-on perspective and technical expertise to his work, sharing insights from years of experience in the cannabis industry.
