With flowers in bloom and the trees regaining their leaves, it can only mean one thing: spring is here! Plus, there’s no better time than the onset of warmer weather to revisit those terpenes that make our favorite cannabis strains so easy to appreciate. In fact, some terpenes are a must-experience during the spring because they awaken the senses and serve as a perfect reminder of how much cannabis can enhance everyday experiences.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds in cannabis that define its scent and flavor, like citrusy limonene or floral linalool. Beyond aroma, terpenes can have their own effects—some, like terpinolene, are known to uplift and energize, while others, like caryophyllene, are known to promote relaxation and help with anxiety. Therefore, terpenes enhance cannabis experiences, even though cannabinoids often get all the attention.
The Best Spring Terpenes
1. Linalool
Linalool is one of the most abundant spring terpenes, found in everything from blooming lavender to rosewood and coriander. This terpene is primarily dominant in cannabis strains known for relaxing qualities, which can be perfect if time changes and more sunlight is interfering with getting good sleep. A few top strains with linalool content include Athens Haze and E85 by Native Sun.
2. Limonene
Limonene is like a burst of sunshine in terms of aromatics and flavor, with its citrus qualities and mentally uplifting effects. This terpene is found in many citrus fruits but is also one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis. One of the best high-limonene strains to look for this spring is Native Sun’s Don Lemon.
3. Terpinolene
Terpinolene has a reputation for enhancing your mood and producing a more active outlook. Therefore, it is always a good pick in the spring. While not as dominant in cannabis, some strains have noteworthy levels of terpinolene, such as Animal Cake by Simply Herb.
4. Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is highly dominant in cannabis and is easy to point out when you know that it has a spicy, almost peppery aroma. The effects can be mentally relaxing and somewhat euphoric. Watermelon Haze is a good strain to experience high levels of Caryophyllene this spring.
5. Humulene
If you’re looking for a terpene with more sedating effects, look for cannabis strains with higher amounts of humulene. This woody, earthy terpene can be found in many strains, but it is especially high in picks from the “cookies” or “cake” lineage. For example, Cheetah Piss from Root & Bloom has a high level of this sleep-inducing terpene.
Track Down Your Favorite Terpenes at Native Sun
At Native Sun, we’ve got some of the largest collections of strains in Massachusetts, and we always keep the most terpene-rich picks in stock in our dispensaries in Hudson, North Attleboro, and South Boston, MA. If you’re looking to track down a strain with a certain terpene, just ask! We’re always happy to offer recommendations. Don’t forget, you can also browse the menu online and order ahead for quicker pick-up when you get to the shop.
