Terps are aromatic compounds in cannabis responsible for the plant's distinct smells and flavours.
Also called / Category:
Also called terpenes; Category: Community, Culture & Slang (SFW)
Key takeaways:
- Terps are found in many plants, not just cannabis.
- They contribute to the cannabis aroma profile.
- Terps may influence the overall cannabis experience.
- They are often listed on cannabis product labels.
- Different strains have unique terpene profiles.
What it is / How it shows up:
Terps, or terpenes, are commonly mentioned on store menus, product packaging, and Certificates of Analysis. They are aromatic compounds found in cannabis and many other plants, contributing to the distinct smells and flavours of different strains. Terps are important for their potential effects on the cannabis experience, often influencing how a strain is perceived in terms of taste and aroma. Consumers might see terps highlighted to indicate a product's unique flavour profile, helping them make informed choices about which cannabis products to purchase.
How it’s measured or identified:
- Gas chromatography is commonly used to identify terpene profiles.
- Products often list terps in percentages or milligrams.
- Lab reports may detail specific terpene content.
Use in context:
- "This strain has a lot of terps, giving it a fruity aroma."
- "Check the terps to see if it's the flavour you're after."
- "The terps are what make this strain smell so piney."
- "I love the terps in this batch; it smells amazing!"
Safety & compliance in Canada:
- Terpenes are considered safe when used in reasonable amounts.
- Products in Canada must accurately list terpene content if claimed.
Related terms / See also:
FAQs:
- What are terps in cannabis? Terps, or terpenes, are natural compounds found in cannabis that give each strain its unique aroma and flavour.
- Do terps affect how cannabis works? While terps primarily affect flavour and aroma, they may also influence the overall cannabis experience by interacting with other compounds.
- Can terps be found in other plants? Yes, terps are found in many plants beyond cannabis, contributing to their scents and flavours.
Sources:
- Health Canada
- PubChem