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Cannabinoid & Terpene Glossary

 

Welcome to dutchie's cannabinoids and terpene glossary! Click on any of the below bullet points to see what information would display to a consumer if that cannabinoid or terpene is present on a menu item.

Note: THC and CBD display at the very top of the product detail page on your consumer-facing menu since that is most commonly what consumers are looking to know about a product’s potency when they are shopping.

Cannabinoids

Terpenes

Cannabinoids

“TAC” - Total Active Cannabinoids

Total active cannabinoids represent the total amount of active cannabinoids at the time of lab testing. This total of active cannabinoids considers all of the active compounds that the product holds.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD is the second most prevalent cannabinoid and is primarily produced by hemp plants and at lower amounts in cannabis. It works as a phytocannabinoid, or binding agent, that adheres to an individual's endocannabinoid system. Cannabidiol has soared in popularity due to its lack of psychoactive effects. Most users seek CBD for its medicinal properties since it was the first cannabinoid to be approved by the FDA. Its healing properties include an ability to help you relax, reduce irritability and ease restlessness.  

CBN (Cannabinol)

CBN is a cannabinoid that is created during the breakdown of THC by UV light and exposure to oxygen. This breakdown usually begins during the drying and curing process. CBN is most commonly found in older or improperly stored cannabis samples. This compound is mildly psychoactive and is best known for its sedative effects. Strains and products with high concentrations of CBN can be a great choice for users looking to utilize cannabis products to ease restlessness and promote healthy sleep.

 

THCA (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)

THCA is a cannabis compound with a laundry list of potential mental and physical health benefits. THCA is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC, the most famous cannabinoid of all. While THC is responsible for the psychoactive “high” that so many of us enjoy, THCA has shown great promise as an anti-inflammatory, neuroprotectant and anti-emetic for appetite loss and treatment of nausea. THCA is found in its highest levels in living or freshly harvested cannabis samples. For this reason some users choose to juice fresh cannabis leaves and flowers to get as much THCA as possible. 

CBDA (Cannabidiolic acid)

CBDA is a derivative of CBGA and the precursor to the well-known cannabinoid, CBD. Over the last decade, scientists have found that CBDA has a very similar chemical structure to that of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and thus has shown promise in treating pain due to inflammation by inhibiting COX-2 receptors in the brain that register pain. CBDA has also been shown to help regulate the over-release of serotonin that causes severe nausea and vomiting in patients receiving chemotherapy, and while more thorough research is needed these results are very promising.  

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)

THCV sets itself apart from its cousin THC with its distinct lack of psychoactive effects. THCV also acts as an allosteric modulator for Delta-9-THC thus reducing its psychoactivity. It has been found to be helpful as an appetite suppressant, neuroprotectant and glycemic control in type 2 diabetics.

CBG (Cannabigerol)

Cannabinoids are synthesized by Cannabigerolic Acid. CBG is the decarboxylated form of this acid that appears at low levels in most cannabis plants. Because its properties are beneficial to multiple parts of the endocannabinoid system, CBG has a wide range of therapeutic uses. It is non-psychotropic and can provide analgesic and antidepressant qualities.

CBC (Cannabichromene)

CBC is a unique cannabinoid and is best known for its ability to bind to the TRPV1 and TRPA1 receptors in the brain which are responsible for pain perception. Topical applications of products high in CBC have also shown promise for the treatment of osteoarthritis symptoms and in the treatment of skin conditions such as acne. 

CBGA (Cannabigerolic acid)

CBGA is often referred to as the, “Father or Mother of all Cannabinoids”. This is because CBGA is situated at the very top of the cascading reaction that creates THCA, CBDA and CBCA which, through decarboxylation, are turned into the three major cannabinoids THC, CBD and CBC. Currently there is little research being conducted on the medical benefits of CBGA, although it has shown extremely promising results when looking at the interaction between CBGA and colon cancer cells. When CBGA was applied directly to colon cancer cells not only did it destroy the cancer cells, but it also stopped the proliferation of new cancer cells. More research is certainly needed, but these preliminary results are extremely encouraging. 

CBCA (Cannabichromenenic acid)

CBCA is the raw form of the cannabinoid CBC. This cannabinoid is most commonly found in tropical and subtropical cannabis strains, but can be found in lower concentrations in many common strains. CBCA has been found to help fight inflammation and may also have some antibacterial and antifungal properties. 

 

CBDV (Cannabidivarin)

CBDV is a cannabinoid most commonly found in Asian and African landrace strains. This compound has been extensively researched for its antiepileptic properties and is now being developed into a drug to treat and prevent epileptic seizures. 

CBCV (Cannabichromevarin)

With effects that are similar to CBC, CBCV is best known for its anticonvulsant properties. First discovered in Thailand and then isolated by researchers at the University of Nagasaki. It is found in only trace amounts in cannabis when compared to major cannabinoids like THC and CBD, more research into this cannabinoid is needed for us to know what else CBCV could be useful for. 

CBGVA (Cannabigerovarinic acid)

CBGVA is a cannabinoid acid that was first isolated by Japanese scientists in 1977. Currently CBGVA is being researched for its ability to be converted into THCV in a lab setting. THCV has more current market viability when compared to the other derivatives of CBDVA which are CBDV and CBGV. In future we may see CBGVA in products designed to treat inflammation and potentially anti-cancer medications. 

THCVA (Tetrahydrocanabivarinic acid)

THCVA is the cannabinoid acid precursor to the well known cannabinoid THCV. Strains such as Durban Poison and other Haze varieties have been recognized as containing high levels of THCVA and also THCV. 

 

CBGV (Cannabigerivarin)

This derivative of CBG like many other cannabinoids has no psychoactive effects. CBGV has been shown to speed up the metabolism of CBD which increases its effectiveness when the two are used together. 



CBDVA (Cannabidivarinic acid)

CBDVA is the acidic precursor of the cannabinoid CBDV. Although it has not been widely studied, CBDVA has shown promise as an anti-inflammatory for treating conditions such as sore muscles and pain from other chronic conditions. 

CBCVA (Cannabichromevarinic acid)

CBCVA is derived from CBGVA and acts as the precursor compound to CBCV. CBCV is non-psychoactive, implying its parent compound may be as well. CBCVA is a rare cannabinoid without full research on its benefits within the endocannabinoid system.

 

CBNA (Cannabinolic Acid)

CBNA is one of many compounds that can be found within cannabis. After the process of decarboxylation, CBNA converts into cannabinol (CBN). Decarboxylation is when one compound converts into another by exposure to sunlight, ultraviolet light, or heat. CBNA is believed to portray similar benefits as CBN, which is mildly psychoactive and is best known for its sedative effects. Strains and products with high concentrations of CBN can be a great choice for users looking to utilize cannabis products to ease restlessness and promote healthy sleep.

 

CBL (Cannabicyclol)

CBL is a non psychoactive cannabinoid that is created as cannabichromene (CBC) degrades over time. Not much is known about the possible therapeutic effects of CBL as it is only found in very small trace amounts during the testing process. 

CBT (Cannabicitranis)

Cannabicitranis a very rare minor cannabinoid. More research is needed to understand the additional effects of CBT and what uses it might have for treating patients.

 

CBLA (Cannabicyclolic Acid)

CBLA is a rare minor cannabinoid that has no known psychoactive effects. CBLA is formed as cannabichromenic acid (CBCA) is exposed to UV light and oxygen over time. Cannabicyclolic Acid is unique in the way that it resists heat, and thus resists decarboxylation creating only small amounts CBL when heated. More research is needed to understand what potential health benefits CBLA has for cannabis users. 

D8-THC (Delta 8-tetrahydrocannabinol)

Delta-8 THC is a cannabinoid with a similar structure to better known Delta-9 THC. While similar to Delta-9 THC in structure, Delta-8 THC is more often extracted from industrial hemp rather than medical grade cannabis. The effects of Delta-8 THC are also similar to that of Delta-9 THC, but much less potent. More research is needed to understand the additional effects of Delta-8 THC and what uses it might have for treating patients. 

 

D9-THC (Delta 9–tetrahydrocannabinol)

Delta 9 THC is the primary compound found in the resinous glands of a cannabis plant, and is directly responsible for psychoactive effects. It mirrors the body’s naturally occurring cannabinoids and attaches to these receptors to alter and enhance sensory perception. THC can create a feeling of euphoria by enhancing dopamine levels in the brain. The amount of THC in a cannabis product can vary widely based on the method of consumption and the strain at the source of that product. The high that is produced is often enhanced by the “entourage effect”  which is a combination of multiple cannabinoids in conjunction with various terpenes and individual body chemistry.

Terpenes

Ocimene

Ocimene is a terpene that is commonly found in cannabis as well as in a wide array of fruits and vegetables. Some familiar fruits and spices that contain Ocimene are; parsley, mango, basil, allspice and pepper. Historically it has been widely used in perfumes, but has recently been shown to have possible potential benefits to health as an anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-bacterial compound.

Caryophyllene Oxide

Caryophyllene oxide is a sesquiterpene known best for its cancer fighting and anti-fungal properties. It can be found in rosemary, basil, hops and of course Cannabis.

Trans-Nerolidol

Trans-Nerolidol is an aromatic secondary terpene found in a wide variety of botanicals, including cannabis. It has a scent that contains woody, citrus and floral notes, and can be found in high concentrations in plants like lemongrass, ginger, tea tree and jasmine.

Trans - Nerolidol has a long history of being used for its relaxing and lightly sedative effects. More recently it has been thoroughly studied for its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties. If you're looking to find a strain that contains higher concentrations of Trans - Nerolidol, look for Tangilope and Sour Kush or strains that are closely related to them. 

Para Cymene

Para-Cymene also known as p-Cymene is a monoterpene compound with a sweet citrus aroma. It is found in the essential oils of many plants including thyme, grapefruit, oregano and cannabis. Para-Cymene has shown great promise as an anti-fungal and can be found in many different topical applications.

Limonene

Limonene is found in citrus rinds and is the second most occurring terpene in nature. This terpene has been used in high dosages as a catalyst in topical products to allow other chemical compounds to pass through the skin for absorption in the blood.

Valencene

Valencene is a terpene commonly associated with citrus fruits like its namesake the Valencia orange. Other citrus fruits that contain Valencene are grapefruits and tangerines. More recently Valencene has been shown to work effectively as an insect repellant more specifically a tick repellant. It has also been shown to have potential anti-inflammatory benefits as well.

Terpineol

Terpineol is known for its extensive potential health benefits ranging from its ability to reduce blood pressure to its skin penetration enhancing effects, making skin-patches more effective. Commonly found as an ingredient in soaps & lotions, terpineol is also found natural occurring in eucalyptus, lilacs & pine trees. While terpineol doesn't contribute any psychoactive properties, the potential health benefits alone make it worth having in your next selected strain.

Geraniol

Geraniol is the terpene most commonly associated with the beautiful smell of geranium. This flavorful terpene is also found in roses, lemongrass, carrots, lemon zest and of course our personal favorite cannabis. Therapeutically Geraniol has shown efficacy as a neuroprotectant, anti-imflamatory and an inhibitor of the proliferation of certain types of cancer cells.

Myrcene

One of the most common terpenes found in cannabis. Myrcene is known to increase the effects of the psychoactive properties of THC yet hold the health benefits found in CBD. Commonly found in parsley, mangoes & hops, Mycrene is a good option for those looking to add a little relaxation to their overall experience.

Humulene

Commonly found in ginseng, ginger, & hops, Humulene is known to lend its robust characteristics to the different scents of cannabis. This terpene has been used in holistic practices for hundreds of years due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties. Humulene has also been reported to act as an appetite suppressant.

Terpinolene

Terpinolene is a cannabis terpene with strong aromatic properties which makes it a popular ingredient in perfumes, lotions & soaps. While this may not be a prevailing terpene such as myrcene or linalool, it still has the potential to positively effect the endocannabinoid system through its numerous potential health benefits. Also found natural occurring in apples, tea trees & sage.

Bisabolol

A secondary terpene found in cannabis, a-Bisabolol is an aromatic terpene that also carries a slew of potential health benefits. Most notably present in German chamomile, a-bisabolol may also act as a relaxant to those with insomnia & anxiety. While secondary terpenes take a back seat to the primary terpenes , they may act synergistically with other terpenes & cannabinoids to enhance a desired effect or potential health benefit.

Nerolidol

Nerolidol also known as trans-nerolidol is a secondary terpene that gives depth of field to scents of plants like ginger, lavender, oranges, lemongrass and tea tree. Nerolidol has a sweet and flowery smell with hints of apple, rose and citrus. It has been found to have anti-insomnia and sedative properties in addition to acting as an anti-microbial and anti-fungal agent.

Terpinene

Terpinene is a terpene that is found in cardamom and marjoram oil, and also in cannabis. It has a scent that is citrusy but at the same time dank and musky. Terpinene has been found to have anti-oxidant properties as well as being known for being a strong anti-inflammatory.

Eucalyptol

Considered to be one of the more studied terpenes, Eucalyptol (Cineole) has shown the potential to improve memory and learning through several randomized placebo-controlled studies conducted by the Natural Health Research Institute. The possible increase in cognitive abilities coupled with a variety of potential health benefits make Eucalyptol a terpene worth having in your next strain.

Cedrene

Cedrene is used in an array of everyday products for the anti-microbial properties & unique cedar aroma it conveys.

Citral

Citral carries a wide variety of potential health benefits making this secondary terpene worth adding in your next strain search. Also found naturally in lemongrass & citrus fruits, citral has been known to contribute to the uplifting experience already found in some strains.

Fenchol

Fenchol contains therapeutic benefits as well as a strong desirable fragrance.
It can be found natural occurring in basil & is credited with giving basil its signature nose. While the fragrance is one to note, this terpene also stocks anti-microbial & antibacterial properties.

Isoborneol

Isoborneol has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years due its robust anti-inflammation properties. This along with its slight menthol aroma makes it a common terpene found in topical cannabis products. Also found in the mugwort plant.

Sabinene

Sabinene is a terpene found in a variety of species including Norway spruce, holm oak, pepper and juniper. This terpene is one of the compounds that gives pepper its spice. It has been shown to have benefits for arthritis, treatment of skin conditions and the digestive system.

Geranyl Acetate

Geranyl Acetate has been found to be one of the contributors to the pleasant fruity aroma you may notice in some of your favorite strains. Also found natural occurring in lemongrass, coriander & sassafras.

Guaiol

Guaiol is a terpene that contributes its pine fragrance to the overall aroma of some strains in cannabis. Found in cypress pine and guaiacum plants, this terpene carries the potential for anti-inflammatory benefits as well as antimicrobial properties.

Camphor

Camphor is a terpene that comes mainly from the camphor tree which grows wild all over Asia and has been introduced to parts of Australia. It has a rather tangy sharp woody aroma thats leaves a menthol-like tingling in your nostrils. Camphor has been found in some cases to act as a cholinesterase inhibitor, which suggests benefits in treating dementia and cognitive disorders. For those looking to aid in treating inflammation from sprains, rheumatism and muscle pain this terpene may be good option.

Beta Pinene

Beta-Pinene is a monoterpene and one of the two isomer compounds that make up Pinene. This terpene is commonly associated with use in turpentine and luxury goods like perfumes and colognes. Users report an increase in mental clarity and executive function when using strains high in beta- Pinene.

Isopulegol

Isopulegol is a terpene that is the chemical precursor to menthol and is known to have a rather fresh and minty flavor and scent and has long been used in the perfume and fragrance industry. This terpene has also been found to have anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and also gastoprotective properties.

Beta Myrcene

Beta -Myrcene a.k.a. Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis. Myrcene is known to increase the effects of the psychoactive properties of THC yet hold the health benefits found in CBD. Commonly found in parsley, mangoes & hops, Mycrene is a good option for those looking to add a little relaxation to their overall experience.

Cymene

A terpene well-known for its anti-inflammatory & pain-relief properties. Cymene naturally occurs in oregano, cumin & thyme as well as cannabis.

Ocimene-1

Ocimene-1 is also known as Alpha Ocimene or a-Ocimene which is one of three monoterpenes that make up Ocimene.

Ocimene is a terpene that is commonly found in cannabis as well as in a wide array of fruits and vegetables. Some familiar fruits and spices that contain Ocimene are; parsley, mango, basil, allspice and pepper. Historically it has been widely used in perfumes, but has recently been shown to have possible potential benefits to health as an anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-bacterial compound.

Citronellol

Citronellol is a terpene with many potential benefits including it's ability to assist in wound-healing & provide stress relief. Also found in rose, geraniums, and lemongrass. Citronellol is a good compliment to those looking to add therapeutic value to their strain selection.

Alpha Bisabolol

Alpha Bisabolol is a rather rare terpene found in plants like the chamomile flower. It has a rather sweet and floral scent and has been historically used in cosmetics and tea making. More recently it has been found to have a host of beneficial properties that range from, neuroprotectant to anti-infamatory.

Beta Eudesmol

Beta Eudesmol is an oxygenized sequiterpene and has been shown to have promise as an appetite stimulant. More research into this compound is necessary to determine its potential health benefits.

Linalool

Linalool is a multi-use terpene that carries a strong calming effect as well as an ability to act as an anticonvulsant in epileptic patients. Found in the plants rosewood, corianders, & lavender, Linalool is a popular terpene commonly present in over 200 species of plants across the world. Linalool is a good addition to your terpene selection when looking for a little R & R.

Alpha Pinene

A commonly found terpene in cannabis, Alpha-pinene lends it's name to it's easily recognized signature scent, that of pine trees. Alpha-pinene is already being used in plants to limit the growth of undesired bacteria as it is the most commonly found terpene in nature. Many users report a boost of energy or brain function when consuming a cannabis product high in Alpha-pinene.

Nerolidol-2

Nerolidol-2 also known as trans-nerolidol is one of two monoterpene isomers that make up Nerolidol.

Trans-nerolidol better known as Nerolidol is a secondary terpene that gives depth of field to scents of plants like ginger, lavender, oranges, lemongrass and tea tree. Nerolidol has a sweet and flowery smell with hints of apple, rose and citrus. It has been found to have anti-insomnia and sedative properties in addition to acting as an anti-microbial and anti-fungal agent.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene, or more specifically Beta-caryophyllene is known for it's wide variety of potential health benefits both physically & mentally. This terpene has a unique ability to bind to the CB2 receptors; CB2 receptors are targeted when treating pain & inflammation with cannabis. Beta-caryophyllene is also approved for use in food by the FDA & is commonly found in black pepper, cinnamon, & basil.

Beta Caryophyllene Oxide

Beta-Caryophyllene oxide is simply the post oxidized form of beta-Caryophyllene. When compared to it's precursor beta-Caryophyllene oxide has analgesic properties that acts on central pain receptors rather than acting through your CB2 receptor in your endocannabinoid system to provide pain relief and anti-imflammatory benefits.

Beta Caryophyllene

Beta-caryophyllene is known for it's wide variety of potential health benefits both physically & mentally. This terpene has a unique ability to bind to the CB2 receptors; CB2 receptors are targeted when treating pain & inflammation with cannabis. Beta-caryophyllene is also approved for use in food by the FDA & is commonly found in black pepper, cinnamon, & basil.

Para Isopropyltouluene

Para Isopropyltouluene is also known as Para-Cymene, and commonly referred to as p-Cymene. p-Cymene is a monoterpene compound with a sweet citrus aroma. It is found in the essential oils of many plants including thyme, grapefruit, oregano and cannabis. Para-Cymene has shown great promise as an anti-fungal and can be found in many different topical applications.

Ocimene-2

Ocimene-2, also known as Beta-Ocimene is best known for its anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. This terpene has been found in higher concentrations in the following strains: Sour Diesel, Golden Goat, Space Queen, Harle-Tsu, Strawberry Cough and OG Kush.

Pinene

Pinene is a bicyclic monoterpene chemical compound. There are two structural isomers of pinene found in nature: α-pinene and β-pinene. It's most commonly recognized in nature as the fresh pine scent given off by trees in a living forest.

alpha-Pinene lends it's name to it's easily recognized signature scent, that of pine trees. alpha-Pinene is already being used in plants to limit the growth of undesired bacteria as it is the most commonly found terpene in nature. Many users report a boost of energy or brain function when consuming a cannabis product high in Alpha-pinene.

beta- Pinene is a monoterpene and one of the two isomer compounds that make up Pinene. This terpene is commonly associated with use in turpentine and luxury goods like perfumes and colognes. Users report an increase in mental clarity and executive function when using strains high in beta- Pinene.

Camphene

Camphene is a minor terpene that can be found in turpentine, valerian, ginger oil and camphor oil. It has a musty doug fir and earth scent that sometimes gets mistaken for myrcene which is usually found in higher concentrations. Camphene historically was used in traditional medicine for treating bacterial and fungal infections and also for treating athletes foot, psoriasis and eczema. More recently Camphene has been found to have a wide array of potential health benefits; it has antioxidant and analgesic effects even when applied topically. It acts as an antioxidant on inflammatory lung disease and has even been shown to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

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