Terpenes contribute to the aromatic profile of cannabis. They let us talk about scents and sensory nuances; their presence is not enough to predict the effect a product will have on a person.
an aroma does not predict an effect
Automatically linking myrcene to relaxation or limonene to an improved mood greatly oversimplifies current knowledge. A scent can guide a sensory preference. It does not replace a clinical study of the product concerned.
what the research shows
A study published in 2021 by LaVigne and colleagues examined several terpenes in cell models and in mice, including in combination with an experimental cannabinoid agonist. This work provides preclinical observations. It does not demonstrate that a commercial variety will produce the same effects in humans.
Russo's review, published in 2011, discusses possible interactions between cannabinoids and terpenes. It helps explain the so-called entourage effect hypothesis, without establishing that all blends are generally superior or making a therapeutic promise for each aromatic profile.
describing without overpromising
At hi lab, describing an aroma and explaining a scientific hypothesis are two separate things. The words fruity, woody or floral describe an olfactory experience; they must not become medical indications. To go further, the references below specify the type of research and its limitations.
