Common Types of Terpenes

Terpenes are a diverse class of organic compounds commonly found in plants, particularly in essential oils. They contribute to the aroma, flavor, and even some therapeutic properties of various plants. Here are some common types of terpenes:

Myrcene

This terpene has a musky, earthy scent an is known for its sedative and relaxing effects.

Limonene

This terpene has a citrusy aroma and is known for its uplifting and energizing effects.

Pinene

This terpene has a piney aroma and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects.

Caryophyllene

This terpene has a spicy, peppery aroma and is known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Linalool

This terpene has a floral scent and is believed to have calming and sedative effects.

Humulene

This terpene has an earthy, woody aroma and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and appetite suppressing effects.

Terpinolene

This terpene has a woody, floral aroma and is believed to have sedative and anti-cancer effects.

Ocimene

This terpene has a sweet, herbal aroma and is believed to have antiviral and antibacterial properties.

What are Terpenes and Why Test for it?

Terpenes are a diverse class of organic compounds that have a wide range of aromatic properties. In cannabis plants, each strain contains a unique combination of terpenes, which contribute to the distinctive scent and flavor of the flowers.

Terpenes are produced by specialized cells within plants which are also the  glands that produce cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. In cannabis, there are over 100 different terpenes that have been identified, each with its own distinct aroma and potential therapeutic benefits.

It is believed that it plays a role in the positive effects of cannabis on the body. Some terpenes are thought to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, or analgesic properties, while others may enhance the effects of cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.

There are also several reasons why terpenes are important to study and analyze in cannabis:

Unique aroma and flavor: Terpenes contribute to the distinctive fragrance and taste of each cannabis strain.

Medicinal benefits: Terpenes can work synergistically with cannabinoids to enhance therapeutic benefits of cannabis.

Strain identification: Terpene profiles can be used to identify specific strains of cannabis.

Quality control: Analyzing the terpene profile of cannabis can help ensure consistent quality and potency in products.

Product development: Knowledge of terpenes can be used to develop new cannabis products with unique and desirable properties.

Terpene Testing Analytes

At PPB Analytical Incorporated, we test for 58 Analytes in the terpene analysis as below.

alpha-Pinene

Camphene

(-)-beta-Pinene

beta-Myrcene

Sabinene

(IS)-(+)-3-Carene

alpha-Terpinene

m-Isopropyltoluene

p-Isopropyltoluene

d-Limonene

Eucalyptol

o-Isopropyltoluene

gamma-Terpinene

Linalool

Terpinolene+(1R)-(-)-Fenchone

(1R)-endo-(+)-Fenchyl alcohol

Ocimene

Sabinene hydrate

(-)-alpha-Thujone

Isoborneol

(-)-Isopulegol+ Camphor

L(-)-Borneol + (+)-Borneol

Menthone

Menthol

Terpinen-4-ol

d-Valerolactam

alpha-Terpineol

Safranal

Octyl acetate

(-)-Verbenone

Citronellol

Nerol

Geraniol

(S)-(+)-Carvone

(R)-(+)-Pulegone

Piperitone

Citral

Thymol

Carvacrol

Isobornyl acetate

Geranyl Acetate

(-)-alpha-Cedrene

beta-Caryophyllene

alpha-Humulene

trans-beta-Farnesene

R-(-)-alpha-Phellandrene

Valencene

cis-Nerolidol

trans-Nerolidol

(-)-alpha-Bisabolol

Cedrol

(-)-Guaiol

Farnesol 1

Farnesol 2

Squalene

Phytane

(-)-Caryophyllene oxide

(+)-Nootkatone

A Breakdown of Terpene Profile Analysis

Terpene profiling analysis involves the identification and quantification of terpenes present in a sample. In the section below, we have listed the steps involved in terpene profiling analysis:

Sample preparation: The first step in terpene profiling analysis is to prepare the sample for analysis. This involves grinding or homogenizing the sample to ensure that it is homogeneous and representative of the entire batch.

Extraction: Terpenes are then extracted from the sample using a suitable solvent, such as ethanol or hexane. The extraction method used will depend on the type of sample being analyzed and the equipment available.

Separation: The extracted terpenes are separated from other compounds using a separation technique such as gas chromatography (GC) or liquid chromatography (LC). GC is the most commonly used method for terpene analysis, as it allows for the separation and identification of individual terpenes.

Identification: The separated terpenes are identified based on their retention time on the chromatogram and their mass spectrum. This information is compared to a database of known terpenes to identify the individual compounds present.

Quantification: Once the terpenes have been identified, they are quantified to determine their concentration in the sample. This is typically done using a calibration curve, which is generated using known concentrations of the terpenes of interest.

Reporting: The results of the terpene profiling analysis are reported in a format that is easy to understand and interpret. This may include a table or graph showing the concentration of each terpene identified, as well as any relevant information about the sample, such as the strain or origin of the plant material.

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