Terpenes in Cannabis
Did you know that terpenes are natural aromatic compounds found in plants? The most commonly associated terpene with cannabis is myrcene, which produces a dank, earthy scent. This terpene is the smallest molecule of the ketone family and is responsible for the sleepy feeling associated with marijuana. Other plants containing myrcene include basil, mangos, hops, and lavender.
Testing for Terpenes for sale near me in cannabis is necessary to ensure that the drug in question is pure and has no trace of contaminants. Terpenes are found in approximately 2000 different varieties of cannabis and affect the tetrahydrocannabinol content. The study also identifies suitable products. While terpene analysis is a necessary part of quality assurance for cannabis products, many people do not realize the importance of knowing the exact composition of a particular strain. It also gives insight into cannabis biotypes and warrants further study.
A typical method used to analyze terpenes is gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. This technique involves blowing up molecules into predictable mass fragments, or patterns. Once these fragments enter a mass spectrometry detector, a chemist can determine the terpene. By comparing their library to the reference standards, the chemist can determine whether the substance contains terpenes.
Do Drug Tests Test For Terpenes in Cannabis?
Terpene analysis is essential for cannabis industry quality control and safety standards. Because the FDA is limited in its ability to carry out drug trials and provide a drug, it cannot conduct a proper analysis. Because of this, the cannabis industry is left to self-test by using gas chromatography. If cannabis is tested, the results are accurate and fast. If a drug test cannot detect terpenes, it’s unlikely to find any drugs that match it.
The cannabis industry has been able to improve terpene analysis through the use of GC, a method that uses two instruments in a single procedure. This method profiles both terpenes and cannabinoid compounds. Moreover, profiling cannabis strains with one instrument allows cannabis producers and consumers to understand the strain’s properties and prescribe it appropriately. In addition to being a vital part of the cannabis industry, GC analysis of cannabinoid compounds is also vital for legitimately regulating the industry.