It’s 2022, and the cannabis industry is booming. Terpenes have become a hot topic in recent years, as researchers have begun to understand how these compounds affect the body.
Each terpene has its own unique set of properties, which can vary depending on the strain of cannabis it is found in. As the industry continues to grow, licensed producers are focusing more on preserving terpenes and listing total terpene content on their products.
In this article, we will discuss the top terpene trends emerging in the cannabis industry.
A Refresher - What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are organic, natural compounds found in various plants, including cannabis. These compounds are responsible for the plant’s unique smell and flavor.
In weed, terpenes work on their own or synergistically with THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids to produce different effects on the body. This is why two strains of cannabis with the same THC content can have a very different array of effects.
The most popular natural plant terpenes are:
- Limonene – Stimulating, energizing, and prominent in sativa characterized strains.
- Linalool – Sedating, relaxing and noticeable in indica plants.
- Pinene – An anti-anxiety aid commonly found in strains with high THC content. Also present in pine needles.
- Caryophyllene – Anti-inflammatory. This terpene is also in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon.
- Humulene – Appetite-suppressant found in hops and woody plants.
Terpenes play a meaningful role in how cannabis affects the body. So, the next time you are at your local dispensary, ask the budtender about the terpene content of different strains. You may find a strain out there that is perfect for your needs.
1. Chemovars – Sativa and Indica terms are becoming less relevant
The first trend is the use of chemovars to classify strains as opposed to the typical indica vs. sativa categorization. Chemovars are a new classification system that considers the chemical composition of cannabis, including its terpene content. This system is becoming increasingly popular as it allows for more accurate predictions of how a particular strain will affect the body.
Chemovars are becoming an essential part of product differentiation because they allow licensed producers to list the terpene content of their products. This is important because customers are beginning to understand how terpenes can affect the overall effects of cannabis and carefully select terpene-specific strains.
2. The Curing, Drying, and Packaging Processes
The second trend focuses on preserving terpenes during the curing and drying process. In the past, many licensed producers have used automated machines to dry and trim their cannabis. However, these machines often damage the delicate terpene molecules, which can reduce the overall quality of the product.
As a result, more and more licensed producers are using manual methods to dry and trim their cannabis. This allows them to control the environment and avoid damaging the terpenes.
Carefully handling terpenes will enable producers to have better control in the preservation of terpene benefits as well as the scent, taste, and effects to produce a variety of products consumers love. In addition, many licensed producers are using new technologies to extract terpenes from plant material. This allows them to add these compounds back into the final product, ensuring that it has the desired effect.
3. Terpene Infusions
As we learn more about terpenes, research and evidence allow us to apply them to a broader range of fields, such as cosmetics and health products, beverages, mixed drinks, aromatherapy, and cleaning supplies.
The trend of terpene-infused products is expected to grow in popularity as we learn more about how these compounds are beneficial.
Some of the most popular terpene-infused products on the market today include:
- Soap – Cannabis terpene oil can create a pleasant smell and nourishing soap.
- Lotion – Calming terpenes and terpene oil can add moisturizing properties to lotion.
- Bath bombs – Terpenes in weed can add a pleasant aroma and soothing effect to bath bombs.
- Aromatherapy – Terpene therapy is becoming an increasingly popular way to relax and improve mood.
- Cleaning supplies – Natural terpenes can help formulate cleaning products that are effective and safe to use.
- Food & Beverage – Adding a specific blend of terpenes to full-spectrum oils and extracts can allows customers to customize their experience. We are also seeing terpenes becoming an ingredient in cocktails, beers and to add a little zing to gourmet dishes.
4. Terpene Infused Isolates
The final trend is the use of terpene-infused isolates. Isolates are a type of cannabis extract that contains only one cannabinoid. This allows for a more potent product that treats specific conditions.
Terpene infused isolates are becoming increasingly popular as they allow for more precise dosing of terpenes and the resultant scent, taste, and effect. These terpene blends and isolates can be used with cannabinoids or on their own for those who want to avoid consuming THC.
Top terpene companies recognize the importance of terpenes and are investing in research and development to create new products for various conditions.
5. Terpene Awareness is Growing
As you can see, terpenes are playing an increasingly important role in the cannabis industry and expanding into the broader wellness category. This trend will continue as people become aware of the benefits of natural terpenes.
Additionally, legal cannabis stores and dispensaries in Canada are further driving awareness and education of terpenes’ medicinal uses, how to use terpenes, and what terpenes are used for. In fact, a simple Google keyword trends search for terpenes has resulted in a 500% increase in searches over the previous five years. Check your local retailer and ask about terpenes.
What’s Next for Terpenes?
The trend toward using terpenes to produce more effective cannabis products is likely to continue in the coming years. As more research discovers how these compounds affect the body, we will likely see more products on the market designed to treat certain conditions.
Relaxing terpenes and cannabis strain terpene profiles will continue to be popular as people look for natural ways to relax and reduce stress. Additionally, new technologies will allow for more precise dosing of terpenes. This will be especially beneficial for those wanting to enjoy specific cannabinoid and terpene infused isolates formulated for terpene therapy.
The Bottom Line: Top Trends in Terpenes in 2022
These are just some of the top terpene trends emerging in the cannabis industry. As the industry grows, we can expect to focus more on preserving terpenes and using chemovars to classify strains and cannabis products. This will allow consumers to better understand how different strains and terpenes affect their bodies and help them find terpenes for sale that are perfect for their needs.
As the cannabis industry continues to grow, we can expect to see more innovative products and technologies utilizing terpenes. These trends are just the beginning of what is sure to be an exciting future for terpenes and terpene therapy.
CannTerp is a top terpene resource for finding high-quality terpenes for sale if you’re searching for terpenes near me. We offer a wide variety of terpene products, including terpene isolates, that are perfect for those looking to enjoy the benefits of terpene therapy. Check out CannTerp’s website for more information on terpenes and how they can help you! CannTerp products are made in Canada.
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