The Blue Violets Terpene Wheel: The Science & Scent Behind Terpenes

Contrary to popular opinion, your cannabis experience isn’t just determined by THC percentage or whether the plant is an “indica” or “sativa.” In fact, you could take two strains of cannabis with the same name and THC percentage and offer completely different experiences.

Terpenes are the aroma compounds that are found in many plants. They shape the taste and aroma of cannabis, and research suggests they also create the different effects of different cannabis on the person. Blue Violets has always had a terpene-first philosophy that moves beyond indica vs sativa labels. We have a deeply researched and scientific approach to terpenes and it reflects across our dispensary in Hoboken. 

Join us in understanding terpenes and cannabis to help you shop smarter and curate your experience.

How do Terpenes Work?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in plants and they’re responsible for distinct scents like citrus, pine, floral etc. Cannabis can have over 150 terpenes, and while they’re found in the plant in trace amounts, a mix of dominant and minor terpenes can give cannabis strains a diverse scent profile.

When terpenes interact with cannabinoids to create an effect that neither compound could produce on their own is called the entourage effect. Blue Violets focuses on terpene profiles to help customers find consistency, wellness and connection through color-coded terpene menus and tailored guidance

Core Terpene Profiles 

Myrcene (Earthy and Herbal)

Myrcene has a musky, clove-like aroma that also smells earthy. Myrcene is an abundant terpene found in hops, lemongrass and mangoes. 

With researchers looking into its therapeutic benefits, myrcene is known for its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and analgesic properties, offering deep relaxation and physical ease. 

Limonene (Citrus & Sweet)

Limonene has a fresh orange, lemon and citrusy aroma. As the name suggests, limonene is most commonly found in citrus fruits. 

Known for its potential mood-boosting properties and stress relief benefits, limonene delivers an uplifting, stress-busting boost of energy. 

Pinene (Pine and Fresh Herb)

Pinene has a fresh pine, rosemary and herb smell. One of the most abundantly found terpenes, pinene is found in pine trees, basil, citrus peels and rosemary. 

Pinene may help with mental clarity, focus and alertness. More crucially, pinene has been shown to offer potential benefits like respiratory support by acting like a bronchodilator, is anti-inflammatory and an antimicrobial as well. 

Linalool (Floral)

Linalool has a lavender smell with soft floral notes. The terpene is most commonly found in mint, lavender and citrus. 

When consumed, linalool may offer a calming effect, anxiety relief and deep restfulness.

Caryophyllene (Peppery/Woody)

Caryophyllene has a strong peppery, clove and woody smell. Commonly found in pepper, cloves and rosemary, caryophyllene is one of the few terpenes that binds directly to the CB2 receptor/

It offers physical pain relief, acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and could potentially protect your stomach from ulcers. 

How to Shop the Blue Violets Terpene Menu

At Blue Violets, we’ve made it easy to identify terpene families and effect profiles by creating a color-coded menu. This menu allows you to figure out which adult-use cannabis products are energizing, uplifting, relaxing and many more effect profiles.

Having a color-coded menu makes it easy to figure out which terpene combinations you’d like and it comes in handy because you don’t have to memorize names and can explain what you’re looking for without hassle.

Even if things feel a little overwhelming initially, things will start clicking in some time and you’ll be able to read our menu and know what you want confidently. Consult with staff at our Hoboken dispensary for a tailored recreational cannabis recommendation and explain what you’re looking for.

For example: I want something for a hike or a social gathering would be best served with cannabis products with pinene and limonene.

Conclusion

Cannabis isn’t just about THC percentages, it’s about the full cannabinoid and terpene spectrum. At Blue Violets, we emphasize terpenes because of the significance they hold in affecting your cannabis experience. We’re a micro dispensary serving the freshest New Jersey cannabis.

Not convinced? Visit Blue Violets’ New Jersey Dispensary, explore our online menu and test out our terpene wheel on your next visit!