Diffrences Between C.A.N.A.B.I.S.S Terpenes

 Terpenes, the aromatic hydrocarbons responsible for the captivating scents found in essential oils, play a significant role in the world of cannabis. A decade ago, the average cannabis consumer may not have been familiar with this term, but today, it has become one of the most treasured aspects of the plant. Recent studies have revealed that the aroma of a strain influences people's perception of its value and potency compared to others.

Unlocking the Power of Terpenes | Heavy Hitters Cartridge

Further research has suggested that terpenes work in synergy with cannabinoids to alter the effects experienced by users. This realization has led to the popularity of isolated terpenes, which can be purchased by concentrate consumers to enhance their dabs or by vape, makers to add flavor and act as cutting agents in cartridges. Additionally, terpenes are utilized to reintroduce lost aromas in products that may have undergone the growing, curing, drying, or extraction processes. This comprehensive guide will delve into the various forms of extracted terpenes and equip you with the knowledge you need.

Understanding Terpene Profiling | Heavy Hitters Vape Cartridge

Seasoned connoisseurs possess the ability to interpret terpenes through their sense of smell. Different strains emanate earthy, citrusy, creamy, floral, gassy, and numerous other captivating aromas. Each strain's distinctive smell and flavor can be attributed to its unique terpene profile. Cannabis contains over two hundred terpenes, many of which are also found in other plants. Consequently, not all terpenes available in the market are derived solely from cannabis.

Enhancing Product Appeal with Terpenes

Certain cannabis products, such as distillates or THCa crystalline, may have minimal flavor. However, adding various terpene products can enhance their taste and appeal. This is especially relevant regarding distillates or crystalline extracts that lack distinctive flavors.

Exploring Food Grade Terpenes | Heavy Hitters Cart

Throughout history, cannabis users have deemed the naturally occurring terpenes in the plant safe for inhalation. However, food-grade terpenes derived from non-cannabis plants have not been traditionally consumed via inhalation. It is important to note that the safety of vaporizing food-grade terpenes, despite being deemed safe for consumption in food, has yet to be thoroughly researched. Food-grade terpenes may contain additional components beyond pure terpenes as long as they are safe for use in food. The potential risks associated with vaporizing food-grade terpenes remain unknown.

The Natural Balance of Terpenes

In the natural cannabis plant, the level of terpenes rarely exceeds four percent. Consequently, the effects of higher concentrations of terpenes on humans are still unknown. By utilizing food-grade terpenes to enhance the terpene profile of extracts, cannabis consumers may inadvertently disrupt the natural balance of terpenes found in cannabis.

Extraction Techniques: Distillation vs. Extraction

Multiple techniques exist for extracting terpenes from cannabis. High terpene extracts differ from isolated terpenes as they contain more than just terpenes; they also retain a certain cannabinoid content.

Distillation: Unveiling the Essence | Heavy Hitter Carts

Isolated terpenes derived from cannabis contain no cannabinoids and are primarily produced through steam distillation or hydro distillation methods. Steam distillation involves suspending a basket of plant matter over boiling water, while hydrodistillation entails placing the plant material directly into the water.

One drawback of these techniques is the high levels of heat required, which can destroy or alter essential components found in the plant's natural oil. Consequently, after distillation, a hydrosol that does not closely resemble the original essential oils present in the plant remains.

While some companies claim to utilize non-steam or non-hydrodistillation techniques for isolated terpenes, the specifics of their methods remain proprietary.

Hydrocarbon Extraction: Preserving the Natural Balance | Heavy Hitters 2.2 g Cartridge

On the other hand, solvent extracts can preserve the natural balance of terpenes and cannabinoids found in the extracted plant material. Additionally, not all terpenes are soluble in steam, meaning that steam distillation primarily yields monoterpenes. However, the full spectrum of cannabis terpenes comprises various classes, including sesquiterpenes, triterpenes, and diterpenes. To truly experience the entire range, the presence of more than just monoterpenes is essential.

Mechanical Separation: A Solventless Solution

In recent years, advancements in solventless extraction techniques, such as rosin, have provided alternative methods for extracting terpenes without using hydrocarbon solvents or steam. The same mechanical presses used to produce rosin can separate the high-terpene liquid portion from the solid THCA crystals lacking the strain's characteristic aroma. It is important to note that mechanically separated terpenes are not entirely isolated and should still contain a certain cannabinoid content.

Supercritical CO2 Extraction: Harnessing the Power of CO2

Supercritical CO2 extraction machines offer another method for extracting terpenes. These machines employ fractionation to separate terpenes from other components present in cannabis essential oils.

While isolated terpenes are being used to reintroduce lost aromas during the curing and extraction processes, it remains challenging to replicate the precise terpene ratios found in the natural plant. Inhaling cannabis products with unnaturally high terpene levels can result in discomfort.

Research Gaps and Considerations

There needs to be more research regarding the inhalation of high concentrations of terpenes or hydrosols in humans. Furthermore, the impact of byproducts from distillation methods employed in terpene extraction remains understudied.

As the fascination with terpenes grows, researchers must delve deeper into these uncharted territories to uncover terpene utilization's potential benefits and risks.

Unlocking the Secrets of Terpenes

Terpenes hold aromatic secrets that captivate cannabis enthusiasts around the world. Their unique smells and flavors contribute to the overall experience of consuming cannabis. Whether it's through enhancing the aroma of extracts or preserving the natural balance of terpenes and cannabinoids, the world of terpenes is ripe with possibilities. As we advance our understanding and research, we pave the way for a future where terpenes can be harnessed to their full potential, enriching the cannabis experience for all.