Cannabis plants feature a wide selection of aromas and flavours, ranging in both quality and quantity. Each cannabis strain has its distinct palette of tastes and smells. Those unique and defining characteristics are accomplished through careful and knowledgeable breeding. Getting the desired aromas in such a manner is very time-consuming.

On the other hand, there are quick ways of artificially flavoring cannabis both pre- and post-harvest. The process of artificial flavoring is manageable by most growers but is unlikely to satisfy true cannabis connoisseurs and purists. Also, all the potential benefits that naturally occurring smell molecules may have, are thought not to be present in artificially flavored cannabis.

TERPENES AND TERPENOIDS

A wide range of compounds has been found in the cannabis plant. Those responsible for scent are called terpenes and terpenoids. Terpenes are a large class of aromatic hydrocarbons while terpenoids are a derivative of terpenes made by oxidation. Most terpenes are quite volatile, that is why even at room temperature cannabis can smell so strongly.

Since terpenoids are oxidized terpenes, curing cannabis changes the terpenoid composition and can largely influence the flavours of a certain strain. Improper curing is the main cause why different batches of the same cannabis strain sometimes taste different.

Studies have shown that some terpenes and terpenoids have sedative effects. Some argue that these terpenoids may have merit in preventing THC caused anxiety. It is worth noting that the high is thought to be a synergistic effect of cannabinoids, terpenes, and terpenoids on the unique biochemistry of the consumer’s body; it is called the entourage effect .

FRUIT SCENT IN CANNABIS

Some Cannabis strains have a scent with an uncanny similarity to fruit. Those fruity scents are loved by many, and for most, round up the smoking experience to an even more pleasurable one. Strains with fruit-like scent usually offer a high that is uplifting and happy; THC caused anxiety is rarely a problem, and sometimes severe body relaxation is present inducing a so-called “couch lock”.

Most dominant terpenes found in the terpene composition of fruit-flavored cannabis are myrcene and limonene.

MYRCENE

Myrcene is a terpene found in large quantities in mango; it is also present in cannabis. It is thought that myrcene facilitates cannabinoid uptake in the brain, therefore strengthening and lengthening the high.

Myrcene has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, as well as being a muscle relaxant and a sedative when in high doses. Strains with high doses of myrcene usually provide strong body relaxation.

LIMONENE

Limonene is a terpene associated with citrus fruit. Citrus flavoured cannabis is considered to feature the most uplifting and happy highs while still having considerable muscle relaxing properties. Limonene has a wide variety of applications; the folk ones being weight loss and skin treatments. Limonene has been observed to help with anxiety and depression; it also exhibits strong anti-inflammatory properties.

Other than myrcene and limonene a lot of other terpenes and terpenoids are found in fruit-flavored cannabis. Some of those include undecanal, methyl-2-methylvaleratem, geraniol, valeraldehyde, terpineol-4-ol, β-Ionone and β-Ionol.

TOP 5 FRUIT-FLAVORED STRAINS

For all those that love fruit scents and flavours, we bring a top list of five of the best fruit-flavored strains. The cannabinoid and terpene profiles of those strains guarantee world class highs. Enjoy your fruit, it’s healthy.

PINEAPPLE

Pineapple comes from Sensi Seeds’ Ed Rosenthal’s Super Bud (ERSB). This hybrid's genetics include a variety of tropical sativas from around the world. Generations of inbreeding are responsible for the strains very pronounced flavours; sweet pineapple and tropical tastes dominate the flavour palette. The high is euphoric and happy, ideal for the couch-bound laughs with friends.

SOMANGO

Somango is a hybrid strain from the breeders at Soma Seeds; it is a 75% indica. The parent strains include Jack Herer, Super Skunk and Big Skunk Korean. The name of the strain comes from the mango-like flavour of the strain; the flavour is enhanced by hints of flowery scents. Despite being a dominantly indica hybrid, Somango’s high is very cerebral. Somango allows creative minds to relax and enjoy a focused and productive session.

HAZE BERRY

Haze Berry is a cross between Super Silver Haze and Blueberry; an 80% sativa hybrid with a sweet berry flavour. The strain is very potent and most often contains more than 20% THC. Haze Berry starts with an euphoric high ideal for creative individuals; later it gradually gives away to the sensation of complete relaxation.

LEMON SHINING SILVER HAZE

Lemon Haze is a sativa with strong citrus aromas. It is high with THC, averaging between 15-20%. The strain is a delight for stoners with a rich and smooth smoke that goes down easily. Great daytime smoke; uplifting and energetic, makes you excited about what you are going to do next.

FRUIT SPIRIT

Fruit Spirit is a 60% sativa-dominant hybrid bred by Royal Queen Seeds through crossing Blueberry and White Widow. The aromas of Fruit Spirit are quite complex; it is woody and peppery with a subtle blueberry theme. This strain has a talkative and creative high that creates a great atmosphere when hanging out with friends or meeting new people.