11) Terpene Combustion Points

As knowledge about the composition of cannabis increases, there is an increasing emphasis on terpene analysis. These additional compounds can improve flavor, taste, and even affect various medical conditions users may have. However, one of the major concerns regarding terpenes is how to best maintain their concentration in a particular cannabis product. Terpenes can be sensitive to light and heat, and they all have specific burning or boiling points. These are the temperatures at which a particular terpene begins to break down. Being among the most sensitive compounds, it is possible that they dissipate during the different stages of production. By analyzing the combustion points of ten of the most common terpenes in cannabis, it becomes easier to see how much each can be lost before reaching consumers.

Myrcene

Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis and can make up to 65% of the terpene profile in some strains. It is characterized by its musky, earthy aroma and, due to its anti-inflammatory properties, is commonly prescribed to cancer patients. Myrcene has a very high burning point and only decomposes above 166 degrees Celsius (330 degrees Fahrenheit). This may be one of the reasons for its prevalence, as it requires high heat to remove it.

Limonene

Limonene is the second most common terpene in cannabis, and as its name suggests, it often contributes a citrusy smell to various cannabis strains. Just like myrcene, it has a very high burning point, at 177 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Strains with the words "lemon" or "sour" in their names tend to be high in limonene, famous for its mood-elevating properties.

Linalool

Linalool is a terpene commonly found in strains useful for a wide variety of medical illnesses, including depression, cancer, and insomnia due to its powerful sedative effects. It is partly responsible for giving cannabis its herbaceous aroma and it has the highest burning point on this list, at 198 degrees Celsius (388 degrees Fahrenheit)..

Beta-Caryophyllene

Beta-caryophyllene, which offers a spicy aroma similar to black pepper or basil, is one of the few terpenes that binds directly to cannabinoid receptors (specifically CB2 receptors). This means that it is often present in products containing CBD, often for its anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties. Beta-caryophyllene has a burning point of 119 degrees Celsius (246 degrees Fahrenheit).

Pinene (Alpha and Beta)

Pinene is one of the most discussed terpenes in cannabis for its broad medical applicability. As the name suggests, this terpene gives cannabis a "fir" smell and has a burning point of 156 degrees Celsius (312 degrees Fahrenheit). This terpene has been linked to anti-inflammatory effects, increased airflow, and a possible reduction in the harmful effects of memory loss due to THC.

Alpha-Bisabolol

Alpha-bisabolol has strong anti-inflammatory properties and is often used to help treat irritation and bacterial infections. With a pleasant floral aroma, this terpene has a burning point of 112 degrees Celsius (235 degrees Fahrenheit).

Eucalyptol

Eucalyptol is the main terpene found in eucalyptus, resulting in a fresh, minty smell. It is quite rare in cannabis, as only about 0.06% of strains contain it. Those that contain it, however, have shown potential as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer treatments. Eucalyptol has a burning point of 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit), lower than water and the lowest on this list.

Trans-Nerolidol

Trans-nerolidol is another floral-smelling terpene, often compared to jasmine, tea leaves, and lemongrass. Some strains like Skywalker OG and Super Skunk have high concentrations of this terpene, which has a burning point of 145 degrees Celsius (293 degrees Fahrenheit).

Humulene

Humulene is a terpene commonly found in hops. It gives hops and cannabis an earthy, spicy, or woody smell and is found in varieties like White Widow or Headband. The burning point of humulene is just above the boiling point of water, at 106 degrees Celsius (228 degrees Fahrenheit).

Hull

Last on the list is carina, which has a sweet aroma similar to cypress. In terms of medical applications, there is some evidence that this terpene could help with memory and be useful for patients with Alzheimer's disease. It has a burning point of 170 degrees Celsius (338 degrees Fahrenheit).

Conclusion