✅Updated 9/13/21

Many of best practices for pressing rosin revolve around maximizing terpene preservation and expression. What are terpenes, and why are they important? Terpenes are hydrocarbon compounds that give cannabis it’s distinct aroma, flavor, and effect. Like the familiar cannabinoids THC and CBD, terpenes are created in the glands on the leaves and flowers of mature cannabis plants. 

There are over 125 terpenes that have been identified in cannabis, and they work together to create the myriad expressions across a multitude of different strains that are being bred today. 

Flavor

Aroma 

Terpenes impart not only unique flavors, but also unique aroma. Terpenes are the essential oils that are released in the air when you break apart a high-quality bud or gently work a well-crafted rosin.   

Terpenes give rosin its “nose” and contribute to the signature smell of distinct cannabis strains. One of the most desirable features of rosin is a clear and heavy scent, indicative of a high terpene content. The better the terpene expression, and better the overall experience when consuming the product. 

For short and mid-term storage, The Press Club FEP sheets do a great job of preserving the complex aroma of your fresh rosin. 

Effect

However, each individual terpene and cannabinoid has a specific boiling point, so it’s ideal to optimize them individually via the temperature at which it’s consumed. 

Terpenes work in concert with cannabinoids in ways that aren’t fully understood, however there’s no question they have a large impact on the chemical interactions that take place while consuming cannabis. Terpenes enhance the therapeutic effect of cannabinoids, which is quite possibly the most important reason to optimize their presence in cannabis. 

Conclusion

It's likely that terpenes will help define the future of the cannabis industry landscape. Much is yet to be discovered regarding interactions between various terpene and cannabinoid ratios found in each distinct cannabis strain. We know that various strains produce noticeably different experiences, and we know that terpenes play a significant role, however the exact mechanisms and biochemical interactions are exciting topics of future research. 

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are terpenes?
Terpenes are hydrocarbon compounds that give cannabis it’s distinct aroma, flavor, and effect. Terpenes are not unique to the cannabis plant, and many terpenes that exist in cannabis are also found in many other plants, such as lemon and pine. 

How can you preserve terpenes?
Properly drying and storing cannabis helps to preserve terpenes. Heat and oxygen degrade terpenes. 

How can you make more terpenes in your cannabis?
Starting with high quality genetics, cultivating rich soil, and creating the ideal temperature and humidity in the grow environment are some ways to increase terpene production in cannabis. Read more in our article How To Increase Terpene Production in Cannabis.

What is the most common terpene?
Myrcene is probably the most common terpene in cannabis produced today, although there are others like limonene and linalool. 

Are terpenes good for you?
Terpenes contribute to the therapeutic effect of cannabis and are also found in many health foods.