There’s a moment that every cannabis enthusiast recognizes that first distinct, sharp scent that comes out as you crack open a jar of flower or crack the seal on a brand new cart. There’s more to the smell than what’s apparent. Memory, mood, anticipation and anticipation are wrapped up in one. That experience is made possible through terpenes, and not only any terpenes, they are the ones that come directly from the cannabis plant itself. These substances are referred to as cannabis-derived terpenes, and they have quickly become the most sought-after ingredients that anyone seeking to enhance quality, authenticity, taste, etc.
Image credit: massterpenes.com
For many years, the producers of cannabis products have relied heavily upon botanical terpenes in order to recreate the essence of strains. It was logical on paper. It was feasible to construct familiar strain profiles by taking limonene or pinene directly from the pine and orange trees. However, the reality did not always line up with the promises. The smell of these terpenes were initially pleasing, but they often lacked the intensity, soulfulness and endurance of their cannabis counterparts. These terpene-based blends degraded quickly, and they ended up smelling like air fresheners, but not as strong as fresh flower.
Here’s where pure cannabis-derived terpenes are at play. They are extracted directly from the cannabis plant, they have both the predominant components that define the strain’s distinctive aroma, as well as the subtle, supporting notes. Botanical sources cannot reproduce them. It’s not just about mimicking flavor it’s about capturing the essence of the plant.
Live resin terpenes are one technology that is pushing this further. Terpenes are extracted directly from the plants after harvesting instead of from dried or curled cannabis. The quick freeze process locks the volatile components in delicate ways which would otherwise go unnoticed. The terpene profile is more vibrant, brighter and deeper. It feels much more like the original strain.
The sensory benefits are obvious, but the impact of cannabis-derived terpenes goes beyond flavor. Terpenes are involved in what researchers and consumers refer to as the entourage effect which is the complex interaction of cannabinoids and terpenes. For instance, a product that contains true OG Kush terpenes not only tastes better, but it can offer a more balanced or familiar experience due to the supporting compound that is preserved in the extracted.
As the awareness of consumers grows as does the demand for more transparency. People aren’t looking at high-THC levels nowadays. They’re reading ingredient lists, looking up their products, and checking out cannabis derived terpenes to purchase that have explicit extraction and sourcing information. Brands that offer strain-specific non-blended, uncut terpene profiles are rewarded by their loyal customers.
This shift is particularly important in a marketplace that is crowded with choices. Since so many brands compete for attention, those who appreciate authenticity are gaining an edge. While synthetic flavors and herbal blends may attract the attention of a person at first, it’s cannabis-derived molecules that keep them coming back.
Mass Terpenes emerged as a leader in the cannabis industry. They offer live resins (resins made from hemp) and hemp-derived line products that are made to fit a variety of budgets while maintaining quality. Their CDT range has become a well-known option for extractors. Vape producers, and also curious consumers who want to discover cannabis’ true essence.
It’s not all about the aroma. It’s about the relationship. Terpenes can affect the experience of smoking after a hard day’s work more than many people realize. Pure cannabis terpenes offer clarity as well as a deep and honest connection to the plant. It is this ingredient that may be the most powerful of all.
