Terpenes are the substances responsible for aroma. Multiple studies give terpenes credit for their anxiolytic and neuroprotector effects. Their capacity to interact is also understood to alter their effect. Recent studies show that the β-Caryophyllene terpene, as happens with some cannabinoids, has affinity for CB2 receptors, which is the reason why it is also classed as a cannabinoid.
Different characteristics have always been attributed to Sativa and Indica plants regarding their morphology and the effect they produce. An example of this is the smaller size of Indica plants and their wider leaflets, as well as the proportion of terpenes present in each type. However, hybrids can be found with Indica's morphological features, but a proportion of terpenes more in line with Sativa type, and vice versa.
The analysis of terpenes allows us to choose those plants that better suit our needs, as well as, based on the proportion of terpenes present, being able to assign them to Indica or Sativa types in a more objective manner.
Fundación CANNA works with methods of analysis previously validated for the analysis of terpenes by gas chromatography (GC), which enables us to provide accurate and reliable information about the amount present of each of them.
Type of samples recommended for the analysis of terpenes:
Any sample of Cannabis, vegetable or extract, for which we wish to know the terpene composition of and/or its classification in Sativa or Indica* can be tested.
Terpenes identified and quantified: main monoterpenes (α-Pinene, β-Pinene, limonene, mircene, linalool, etc.), main sesquiterpenes (β-caryophyllene, humulene, etc.) and diterpenes (phytol, etc.). Contact us for a full list of the terpenes that we can identify and quantify.
* Some samples might not correspond to any established classification.