What are Terpenes?
WHAT ARE TERPENES?
Terpenes are the naturally occurring aromatic compounds found in plants and botanicals that give them their distinctive aromas and flavours. They are what has been called the ‘Essential Oils’ of plants and flowers for many years now, and can be found pretty much everywhere in mother nature.
The level of Terpenes directly impacts the level of aroma and flavour that exudes from a particular plant. They are found in abundance in numerous culinary herbs and flowers, cannabis, and of course - in the almighty hop.
In Hops, the flowers used in brewing beer, the high concentrate of terpenes exude a range of familiar and sometimes pungent aromas from “earthy” and “piney” to “citrusy” and “tropical”. Basically these terpenes are what give our beers the taste and aroma that we all love!
WHY ADD TERPENES TO BEER?
Simple - for enhanced sensory experience. They take your standard pale or IPA and bring a whole other dimension to the senses of smell and taste.
Terpenes have also been proposed to have other sensory effects. Think of oil burners, relaxing massage oils and even Nana’s Potpourri - these are all ways that we’ve all been enjoying Terpenes for years.
Different types & ratios of terpenes, & how they interact with other substances has been termed the ‘Entourage Effect’. You’re essentially you are adding an extra dimension and layer of enjoyment to your tasty brew.
TERPENES ARE IN CANNABIS? WILL I GET ‘HIGH”? ARE THEY EVEN LEGAL?
Yes, Cannabis is one of the most well known plants that has an extremely high amount of Terpenes - That is what makes different strains have such varied aromas and be distinctively pungent and “dank”.
No, Terpenes won’t get you high. The Tetrahydrocannabinols (THC) that is present in Cannabis is the main psychoactive substance, along with otherCannabinoids (CBD).
Yes, Terpenes derived from botanticals (not cannabis) are completely legal for sale and consumption in Australia.
SO, DOES THIS PRODUCT CONTAIN CANNABIS?
No cannabis based products have been used in the production of this product. Instead, terpenes found naturally in other plants and botanicals have been isolated and blended to recreate terpene blends that are based on specific cannabis strains. Our products do not contain any Cannabinoids (CBD) or Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
TELL ME MORE ABOUT THIS “ENTOURAGE EFFECT”.
There are many sources of different theories about and research into Terpenes and the ‘Entourage Effect’. Have a dig on the internet and as always, review with an open mind and look into the sources of this information
WHY BASE TERPENE BLENDS ON CANNABIS STRAINS?
Like hops, different cannabis strains have different aromas and flavours that result from the different types and levels of Terpenes that they contain.
GOTCHA, SO WHAT DOES IT TASTE LIKE?
Terpene strains and hop varieties are carefully chosen & blended, enhancing the naturally occuring flavours & aromas of the hops & providing an elevated sensory experience.
In our Pineapple Express California IPA, we have carefully selected a blend of Aussie Vic Secret, US Citra and newer hop variety BRU-1 hops which lend a wonderful tropical fruit blend of ripe pineapple and citrus-pine notes to this West Coast style IPA. A Terpene blend based on the famous sativa “Pineapple Express” cannabis strain enhances the Pine, Citrus elements as well as lending a beautiful dank pineapple note with a touch of lemongrass and sweet lavender on the nose.
WHAT IS A ‘PSYCHOACTIVE’?
A psychoactive substance is a chemical substance that interacts with and changes the function of the nervous system resulting in alterations of perception, mood, cognition, and behaviour.
WHAT ARE THC and CBD?
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the major psychoactive component and one of the 113 cannabinoids recognised in cannabis. CBD (Cannabidiol) is the second most prevalent active ingredient in cannabis. Recreational cannabis (marijuana) containing THC and CBD (and Terpenes) is illegal in most states and territories. Medical Cannabis containing THC, CBD and Terpenes can be purchased and consumed under medical guidance after consultation and approval from a qualified doctor.
ALCOHOL AND TERPENES
It is important to note that alcohol is a strong psychoactive substance, and its effects can be influenced by factors such as dosage, individual tolerance, and the presence of other substances. It's crucial to approach alcohol consumption responsibly as it can have negative consequences on health and well-being. If you're considering consuming products that contain both terpenes and alcohol, it's a good idea to be mindful of your body's response and be aware of how different substances may interact with one another.
As always, if you're unsure about consuming alcohol and/or terpenes, or have questions about their effects, it's recommended to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional.
