Hemp is an extraordinary plant with an interesting application and great potential.
They are used differently depending on the species. Cannabis is the world-famous marijuana, while hemp is a source of valuable CBD, as well as fibers or hemp shives from which the industrial sector draws.
In addition to the use of these plants, their biology is also interesting. In today’s article, we will answer the question of where such an intense and pleasant smell in these plants comes from and how the aroma of marijuana differs from the aroma of hemp.
The smell of cannabis and chemical compounds
The smell of cannabis is widely known. Some describe it as irritating, others say it is encouraging and gentle.
Regardless of which term is closer to you, one thing is undeniable – the smell of hemp is extremely characteristic and intense, to the point that even people who do not use the benefits of hemp can recognize it.
The smell of cannabis is described as sweet, fruity and citrus with hints of pine and sometimes hot spices. It is so popular and unique that it has been present in the fragrance compositions of balms, creams, essential oils and perfumes.
Both hemp and marijuana contain over 200 different chemical compounds involved in creating the aroma of these plants.
The smell of cannabis varies depending on the species and variety, and even the cultivation method or harvest date.
The chemical compounds called terpenes are responsible for their smell. Within the plant itself, they are responsible for defense against animals and pests. Over 100 different terpenes have been discovered in cannabis, and each of them is responsible for a different effect and gives a different smell.
From a chemical point of view, terpenes are hydrocarbons, i.e. compounds consisting of carbon and hydrogen molecules.
They are secreted in the same resin glands (trichomes) that are responsible for the production of CBD, THC and other cannabinoids.
In addition to terpenes, we can also distinguish volatile sulfur compounds in the fragrance composition of cannabis.
Recent studies using two-dimensional gas chromatography have shown that sulfur compounds are responsible for the characteristic, slightly skunky smell of cannabis – even its small, trace amounts.
Here are some of the most basic terpenes found in cannabis:
Myrcene, the most common terpene. It is found in as much as 80-90% in cannabis, and about 20% in hemp. According to numerous studies, it has been found that it increases the permeability of cell membranes, thanks to which other terpenes and flavonoids or cannabinoids have easier access to cells in the body. Its aroma is described as a mixture of cardamom, cloves, musk and delicate herbs.
It can also be found in plants such as hops.
The second most popular terpene is limonene. It gives the plant a pleasant, delicate and characteristic citrus aroma and taste.
Limomen is very often used in combination with other terpenes to improve their absorption into the body. It can also be found in citrus and mint.
What else affects the smell of cannabis?
The intensity of the smell of dried CBD hemp is also dictated by the age of the buds, i.e. hemp inflorescences, and the cultivation conditions, such as the type of soil, weather during the development of the plant, sunlight, and even the close proximity of the forest.
Is the smell of marijuana the same as dried CBD?
Numerous studies show that Indica and Sativa varieties differ from each other in several respects. They differ in the height of the plants, the width of the leaves, the length and span of the stems, as well as the appearance of the inflorescences.
In addition, we can distinguish plants by smell.
Cannabis has a much sharper, skunky smell, while sativa is much milder, citrus with a nutty, grassy note.
We already know what dried CBD smells like, but what does CBD oil smell like?
Opinions about CBD, as well as its taste and smell, vary.
A good CBD oil has a naturally bitter and earthy smell and taste. Some describe it as nutty or grassy. The taste itself may not suit some users, so to facilitate their consumption, flavored CBD oils were created, which are characterized by a fruity taste, e.g. raspberry or orange.
References:
Iain W. H. Oswald, Marcos A. Ojeda
“Identification of a New Family of Prenylated Volatile Sulfur Compounds in Cannabis Revealed by Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography”
ACS Omega 2021
Somchai Rice and Jacek A. Koziel|
“Characterizing the Smell of Marijuana by Odor Impact of Volatile Compounds: An Application of Simultaneous Chemical and Sensory Analysis”
Published online 2015 Dec.
Artykuł Why does hemp have such an intense smell? pochodzi z serwisu Alba Hemp.