Terpene "Flavor" Groups
Terpenes (and terpenoids) are responsible for around half of the aroma of cannabis and hemp. Hundreds have been found in cannabis, but there are some that are more common. Our terpenes page covers 36 of these in more detail, but this page organizes these common terpenes into seven (7) "flavor" groups based on their generally dominant aroma profile.
While terpenes and terpenoids may only contribute about half of the aroma of cannabis flower, they are usually tested for and quantified. They have also been studied and we know that individually they can have beneficial effects on humans.
Each terpene has a complex aroma profile which can include several of these groups of flavors; this is just an attempt to simplify it a little. We have grouped the terpenes by their strongest, most often identified aroma and flavor. Everyone has unique biochemistry, and the way your body interprets these aromas may be very different. Our terpenes page summarizes each of these terpenes' aroma in more detail.
Interesting recent research discovered that the "skunky" aroma in some cannabis is caused primarily by volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) that usually evaporate shortly after curing cannabis. That "flavor" is not from the terpenes.
The "flavor groups" that we settled on are:
- Earthy
- Fruity
- Piney
- Floral
- Minty
- Woody
- Spicy
- Skunky
- Chocolate (research says that the COMBINATION of these terpenes are the foundation for the aroma and taste of chocolate)
We know this list will be updated and improved over time, as with all knowledge. New knowledge is developed every day, so let us know if you've got ideas on how to "flavor group" terpenes. Our goal is to give patients and consumers more usable knowledge about cannabis and hemp. Thanks for stopping by!
