Talk Terpenes to me!
Let’s talk terpenes
Whether you’re a smoker, a dabber or an edible eater, you’re likely familiar with the general categorization of cannabis strain groups into the three main segments: sativas, indicas and hybrids.
What’s the difference?
Botanically speaking, there are definite differences between sativa and indica plants. For instance, you can tell them apart from the shape and color of their leaves.
But the categorization is more commonly used to differentiate the particular effects these strain groups are suggested to have on us when we consume cannabis:
Sativas are infamously known for the hyped up high that elicits excitable, creative, happy, feel-good vibes.
Indicas (aptly nicknamed “in-da-couch”) lie on the other end of the spectrum with a reputation for relaxation, these strains send you to sleep...or at least crazy lazy la-la-land.
Hybrids hang out in the middle as a blend of both thrilling Sativa vibes and chilin’ Indica highs.
This convenient categorization is a helpful method for simplifying the myriad of options we face when perusing the shelves or a dispensary menu. But what isn’t so simple is the science behind the system. The chemistry of the cannabis plant actually reveals that it’s really the terpenes and the cannabinoids from the plant that serve up the sedating vs. uplifting effects.
Today, we’re talking ‘bout terpenes.
These are compounds that are not only responsible for the unique aromas and flavors of each cannabis strain, but they also influence the way the other compounds interact with one another. You could call them a catalyst, a kick-starter to the interaction with the other organic chemicals in the plant. That interaction ignites the various types of highs we experience with each unique strain. Every terpene delivers a unique flavor, aroma and effect.
Here are the top 7 most common terpenes you’ll find in PLUS Strains:
Presenting PLUS Strains.
As you can see, there’s a whole world beyond Indica vs. Sativa when you start thinking about the terpenes! And we at PLUS wanted to go there with our newest innovation, PLUS Strains.
Instead of crafting a “Sativa-inspired” or “Indica-inspired” gummy, we got strain-specific. Not all gummies are created equally - it’s what’s inside that matters. Inside every great gummy is great cannabis- whether you use full spectrum oil, distillate, hash, or something else- it all starts with the great flower.
We decided to celebrate the greatest of the greats. We chose three notorious nugs to inspire our invention: Granddaddy Purple, Lemon Jack and Pineapple Express. Born of blends from OG parent strains, these trailblazing buds have become iconic staples worthy of a chance to shine in the world of edibles. So, we carefully created a formulation for each Strain that brings the particular flavors, aromas and effects to life, mirroring those of each specific strain!
Tailored terpenes for a tailored high
We tailored the terpene blends for each batch to deliver the thrill of a sativa in our Lemon Jack gummies, the chill of an indica in our Granddaddy Purple gummies and the balanced bliss from a hybrid high in our Pineapple Express gummies!
Power in the Potency
The truth is on the tin! Flip it over and see exactly which terpenes are in each batch of Strains! We believe in transparency and stand behind every ingredient that goes into our gummies, including our potent terpenes, which is why on the back of every Strains package there is a LucidID QR code.
Each code connects you to a Lucid Green website, providing detailed information about the product, the terpene potency levels, ingredients, expected effects, dosage recommendations and even COA (Certificate of Analysis) testing certificates.
What the heck is a COA?
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a third-party document that provides details about the testing lab, the brand and product and the potency of the ingredients the product contains, including terpenes in our case! It also gives you peace of mind that the product you purchased is free from harmful metals, pesticides, molds and bacteria.
This is Greek to me
Decoding a COA is actually not as complicated as it looks. As with all detailed documents, start from the top and look for the most important info. In the case of cannabis, we recommend you search for:
Cannabinoid Profile - A cannabinoid panel analysis will show you which major cannabinoids are present in the product and at what percentage or potency. Since we infuse our PLUS Strains gummies with high quality full spectrum oil, our COA cannabinoid profile will show that the gummies are predominantly THC, but also have small amounts of THCa, CBD, CBN and CBG present, resulting in a full spectrum cannabinoid profile.
Safety Test Results - This section will show you all the different solvents, heavy metals, molds, pesticides and other toxins the lab tested for. If a product tests positive for any of these items, it is deemed unsafe for consumption and should be avoided.
Terpene Analysis - Since terpenes play a big role in the effect and experience of cannabis, understanding this section of a COA will empower you to be able to select the best gummy, vape or flower for your needs or moods. For instance, as shown in this COA, our PLUS Strains Grandaddy Purple gummies have detectable amounts of beta-caryophyllene, linalool, myrcene, limonene, humulene, and pinene. The combination and potency of these terpenes, particularly the beta-caryophyllene, linalool and myrcene, provide the indica-like effects such as relaxation, sedation and stress relief.