If you are like me your cannabis journey started long ago and no longer resembles the road we're on now. Back in the day getting your supply from your guy could land you in jail and didn't offer a lot of options. You took what you could get and both the quality and effects varied widely.
In the modern dispensary even an avid consumer can get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choices. Not only are there a growing number of brands, there are endless strains, and new modalities entering the market every day. |
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After the initial thrill of being able to sample across the spectrum of products my shopping patterns have evolved. For me the whole process has gotten a lot more intentional. I consider what I'm going to be doing when I consume, what results I'm looking for and how I want to feel.
Lately, I've been focused on the smell and taste of cannabis and how that effects my experience. Think of it like the way you would when picking out new coffee beans, or sipping a fine wine. The experience wouldn't be complete without all the senses.
Terpenes are substances that stimulate your body's olfactory glands and excite your sense of smell. They are powerful chemicals that are present in all plants including fruits, vegetables, natural medicines, and essential oils.
Terpenes are not cannabinoids but do come from the same section of the plant and can enhance the effects of cannabinoids when taken with them. This is referred to as the entourage effect. There are over 400 terpenes. Below are a few of the most common.
| Myrcene | hops, lemongrass, basil, mango |
| Pinene | basil, dill, rosemary, parsley, juniper, pine, spruce |
| Limonene | orange, grapefruit, lemon |
| Linalool | lavender, thyme, coriander, apricots, papaya, cranberries |
| Caryophyllene | rosemary, cloves, hops, black pepper, oregano, cinnamon |
I've started documenting my tasting experience and invite you to do the same. I capture the flavor, effects, and the potency for each experience. For me it's been interesting to see patterns emerge and to better understand what attracts me to a certain strain. Start your own tasting journal and let the journey begin!