In recent years, the cannabis industry has been rapidly growing, with more and more states legalizing the use of marijuana for both medical and recreational purposes. With this growth, the demand for high-quality cannabis products has also increased, and customers are becoming more discerning about the cannabis they buy.
One crucial area where cannabis customers are seeking more information is terpenes. Terpenes are the organic compounds that give cannabis strains their distinct aroma and flavor, and they play a large role in the effects of different strains. Any seasoned cannabis consumer can tell roughly the experience they'll have from a cannabis product by smell alone. The telltale aroma's they look for are actually indicators of the terpenes present in a particular cannabis sample.
Terpenes are found in many plants, not just cannabis, and they are responsible for the aromas and flavors that we associate with different plants. In cannabis, there are over 100 different terpenes (more are likely waiting to be discovered), each with its own unique aroma and flavor profile. Some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis include myrcene, limonene, pinene, and caryophyllene.
Research is proving the large role terpenes play in the effects of different cannabis strains. For example, myrcene is believed to have a sedative effect, while limonene is thought to be energizing. Pinene is believed to have an anti-inflammatory effect, and caryophyllene may help reduce anxiety. Certain combinations of terpenes can lead to even more complex and dramatic entourage effect experiences. We've done some interesting research in partnership with Abstrax Tech, and Dr. Avery Gilbert on the effects of terpenes alone. You can view information about the study HERE.
As customers become more interested in the effects of different terpenes and terpene combinations, they are seeking more information about exactly what terpenes are present in the products they buy. Many consumers are now choosing products based solely on the terpene content. Cannabis dispensaries are starting to respond to this demand by providing more information about the terpenes present in their products. This may include providing information about the dominant terpenes in a particular strain, as well as the effects that customers can expect from those terpenes.
Some dispensaries are also providing more educational resources about terpenes and the effects of cannabis in general. This may include workshops or classes that provide information about the different types of cannabis products available, how to consume them, and the potential benefits and risks of using cannabis.
At budboard, we've automated the process of educating customers about the terpene content of each of your products and their likely effects. Just a take a look at our groundbreaking cannabis recommendation systems.
Providing more information about terpenes and the effects of cannabis can help customers make more informed purchasing decisions. It can also help dispensaries differentiate themselves in a crowded market by providing a higher level of service and education to their customers. As the cannabis industry continues to grow, it is likely that customers will continue to seek out more information about the products they are purchasing, and dispensaries that can meet this demand will be well-positioned for success.
Interested in how to use terpene data as a customer experience activation that generates revenues? Take a look at our BeSmoke AI Ganjier product announcement.