Cannabinoids are believed to work synergistically with terpenes to illicit a variety of health benefits, a phenomenon called the entourage effect.

Cannabinoid profiling is extremely important for doctors, patients and consumers to determine dosage and select the best treatment. The methods Trichome Analytical employs for analyzing these compounds have been rigorously tested, and our quality control program ensures that you receive accurate, reliable, reproducible data. Trichome Analytical tests for and measures the potency of up to 15 cannabinoids, ensuring quality assurance for producers and end consumers.

We test for CBDVA, CBDV, CBDA, CBGA, CBG, CBD, THCV, THCVA, CBN, Δ9THC, Δ8THC, CBL, CBC, THCA and CBCA. For more information about some of these cannabinoids, including effects and uses, please see below.

Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid

This non-intoxicating compound is the most abundant cannabinoid found in raw cannabis. THCA converts into THC through a process called decarboxylation. On its own, THCA exhibits a variety of health benefits including: anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-tumor, combats insomnia, and is anti-spasmodic.

Cannabidiolic Acid

CBDA is the precursor to CBD and is found in raw, freshly trimmed cannabis – particularly in high CBD strains and hemp. Initially thought to be an inactive compound, studies within the last five years show that CBDA may have multiple health benefits including anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects.

Cannabigerolic Acid

CBGA is considered the mother of all cannabinoids. Through a process called biosynthesis, cannabis plants produce CBGA. As the cannabis plant matures, CBGA will be exposed to three different enzymes, each of which converts the compound into either THCA, CBDA, or CBCA. When harvested cannabis is heated, any remaining CBGA will decarboxylate into CBG. It’s thanks to this unique cannabinoid that all other medicinal benefits in cannabis are possible. In addition, CBGA has shown analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative properties.

Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol 

∆9THC (commonly referred to as “THC”) is by far the most well known cannabinoid. This cannabinoid is the primary psychotropic compound in cannabis and lead researchers to the discovery of the endocannabinoid system. Beyond that, ∆9THC is also highly valued for its medicinal benefits, which include: pain relief, anti-inflammatory, stimulates appetite, reduces nausea, and suppresses muscle spasms.

Cannabidiol

This cannabinoid has been shown to be extremely valuable in the treatment of seizure disorders. Since CBD is non-intoxicating, it is ideal in treating these types of disorders in children. When used with ∆9THC, it may lower THC induced psychoactivity, while preserving the therapeutic benefits of THC. High CBD:THC ratio strains assist patients in getting the most out of both CBD and THC with less intoxicating effects. Health benefits include: pain relief, anti-inflammatory, anxiety relief, psychosis relief, seizure/convulsion reduction, muscle spasm suppression, anti-bacterial, and many more.

Cannabichromene

CBC is one of the three cannabinoids CBGA produces along with THC and CBD. It has been found to be extremely effective in reducing anxiety and stress. Research has shown that CBC has an ability to inhibit cancer cell growth and promote bone growth. Other benefits include: pain relief, inflammation reduction, and anti-bacterial properties.

Cannabigerol

CBG is the only cannabinoid identified that may help stimulate the growth of new brain cells.  Any remaining CBGA that has not converted into THCA, CBDA, or CBCA, will decarboxylate into CBG. Typically, this compound is present in very small amounts. It is more prevalent in hemp or prematurely harvest cannabis, with some plants containing over 90% CBG of the total cannabinoid profile. This cannabinoid also inhibits growth in tumorous or cancerous cells.

Tetrahydrocannabivarin

THCV is gaining traction in the cannabis community for displaying appetite suppressant effects. This cannabinoid is the decarboxylated form of THCVA and more common in african sativas. THCVA is formed when an enzyme reacts with CBGVA. Research suggests that THCV has approximately 25% of the psychotropic strength of ∆9THC. This compound holds promise in the treatment of PTSD and panic attacks.

Cannabidivarin

CBDVA, like THCVA, is formed when an enzyme reacts with CBGVA. When CBDVA decarboxylates, CBDV is created. Cannabis plants with relatively high levels of CBDV have been found in feral populations of indicas from northwest India, Pakistan and Mexico. Although there is limited research on this minor cannabinoid, some studies have shown it’s anti-convulsive and nausea relieving properties.

Cannabinol

CBN forms when THC is exposed to oxygen and heat. Cannabis that is old or has been stored in a heated area often contains high levels of CBN. This cannabinoid is known for having little to no intoxicating properties and extreme sedative effects. CBN is used to treat insomnia and offers pain relief.

Delta 8 Tetrahydrocannabinol

This cannabinoid is among the most common found in dried cannabis, but typically in fractions of a percent. Similar to ∆9THC, ∆8THC is psychotropic (about 70% the psychotropic potency of ∆9THC) and holds strong anti-nausea benefits. Rodent studies show that this cannabinoid boosts the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which may hold promise in treating Alzheimer’s disease and other memory and cognitive problems.

Terpenes are aromatic molecules produced by a wide variety of plants, including cannabis. Terpenes are found in the essential oils of plants and have been used for centuries as perfumes, aromatherapy and medicine.

Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant, and each cultivar exhibits unique, complex terpene profiles. Terpenes have their own therapeutic benefits, and they also are capable of acting synergistically with cannabinoids and other cannabis compounds.
Individual terpene and cannabinoid effect profiles may change in the presence of other compounds. For example, a high-THC cannabis strain with the terpene pinene may counteract the short-term memory loss associated with THC. This is an example of the entourage effect.

Aroma: Cloves

The most common terpene produced by cannabis. It lowers the resistance across the blood to brain barrier, which helps enable the effects of cannabinoids. A high myrcene level in cannabis (usually above 0.5%) results in the well-known “couch-lock” effect of classic Indica strains.

Aroma: Pine

Pinene counteracts the effects of THC by increasing acetylcholine levels. The result is that the memory fails more with pure THC than with THC mixed with pinene. It is used in medicine as an expectorant, bronchodilator, anti inflammatory and local antiseptic. Most commonly found in skunk strains.

Aroma: Peppery

The only terpene known to interact with the endocannabinoid system. It displays anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. β-Caryophyllene is often found in anti-inflammatory topicals and salves due to its affinity to CB2 receptors.

Aroma: Lavendar

Currently used in the treatment of various cancers. It also has a powerful calming action, anti-anxiety, and produces a sedative effect. Linalool has been shown to reduce stress.

Aroma: Citrus

Often the second, third or fourth terpene found in cannabis resin. Limonene is anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-carcinogenic. It is found predominantly in sativa strains, and invokes an energizing high.

Aroma: Hops

This terpene is unique because, like THCV, it acts as an appetite suppressant, showing promise for weight loss treatments. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory and an anti-pain compound. Humulene also has anti-cancer properties.

Aroma: Herbaceous, Sweet

Displays anti-inflammatory effects in white blood cells through a variety of pathways. Ocimene is also considered anti-fungal and may be used as a decongestant.

Aroma: Citrus, Fresh, Piney, Woody

Terpinolene is not an analgesic or an anti-inflammatory, yet most cannabinoids and terpenoids are one of the two or both. It does, however, exhibit anti-oxidant and anti-cancer effects. It also has powerful sedative effects.

Aroma: Lilac

Commonly found in strains that have a high level of pinene. It is often used in perfumes and soaps due to its pleasant aroma. Terpineol is very relaxing and contributes to the “couch lock” effect.

Aroma: Rose

This terpene’s primary use is as mosquito repellent. Geraniol may also be useful as a topical drug enhancer and has shown anti-inflammatory effects. It frequently occurs in strains that also produce linalool.

Aroma: Citrus, Orange

This terpene is found in citrus fruits including Valencia oranges and grapefruits. Valencene is often used as an aromatic additive and flavoring ingredient. Recent studies show that this terpene may be anti-inflammatory.

Aroma: Minty

Borneol potentiates the effects of numerous other drugs by increasing how much of the drug is absorbed by the body. It is used in Chinese medicine against fatigue, stress, or to recover from illness.

Aroma: Eucalyptus

Relieves pain and improves concentration. Research suggests eucalyptol could be a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s, as it lowered the inflammation caused by amyloid beta plaque. It is also toxic to several species of bacteria.

Aroma: Fresh bark

Found to be a skin penetration enhancer for the transdermal delivery of therapeutic drugs. Nerolidol also acts as a sedative and exhibits potent anti-fungal and anti-malarial activity.

Aroma: Coconut, Fruity, Nutty

Also known as Levomenol, this terpene is associated with pain relief and neuroprotection, with possible uses in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s treatment. Bisabolol is commonly used in the cosmetics industry due to its perceived skin healing properties.

Aroma: Cedar

Carene can be used to dry out excess body fluids, such as tears, mucus, and sweat. It also may stimulate calcium production in bone cells, which could relieve symptoms of conditions like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.

Aroma: Minty, Peppery, Citrus

This terpene is used widely in the perfume due to its pleasant natural aroma. Current studies have shown phellandrene to be: anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, expectorant, fungicidal and insecticidal.

Aroma: Sweet pine, Spicy, Herbal, Citrus

Terpinene has perfume and flavoring properties, but is mainly used to confer pleasant odor to industrial fluids. It has very strong anti-oxidant properties.

Aroma: Camphor, Pine, Sweet

Fenchol is often employed as a flavor and fragrance agent. It gives basil its characteristic scent. This terpene is anti-oxidant and anti-microbial with limited anti-fungal properties.

Aroma: Floral, Green, Balsamic

This terpene is a breakdown product of chlorophyll. It is found in green tea and barley. Due to its relaxing effect, phytol can be used in the treatment of insomnia.

Aroma: Camphor, Pine, Woody, Herbal

Most notable is its ability to decrease the incidence of cardiovascular disease by lowering the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Camphene is widely used as a minor constitute in many essential oils.

Aroma: Woody, Citrus, Pine, Spicy

Sabinene works synergistically with cannabinoids to help relieve inflammation and pain from arthritis and other autoimmune disorders like lupus. It also has been shown to benefit liver function and digestion, and can soothe skin conditions. It is a major aromatic and flavor component of nutmeg.

Aroma: Camphoraceous, Clean, Minty

The health benefits of camphor are extensive. They include: anti-spasmodic, anti-septic, decongestant, anesthetic, sedative, anti-neuralgic, anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, and insecticide. Interestingly, it has also been used in embalming fluids and was an essential component in the production of smokeless gunpowder.

Aroma: Sweet, Musty, Woody

Isoborneol exhibits anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. It has been shown to be a potent inhibitor of herpes simplex type 1 virus.

Aroma: Cool, Peppermint

Also known as hexahydrothymol, menthol is used in a variety of products including pain relieving topical creams and cough drops. This terpene has local anesthetic and counterirritant qualities.

Aroma: Woody, Cedar, Sweet, Fresh

Primarily extracted from cedar oil, this terpene has been widely used in body sprays and deodorant. Research suggests that cedrene possess anti-microbial, anti-fungal and anti-cancer properties.

Aroma: Woody, Rose, Tea

Guaiol is also found in cypress pine and guaiacum. It has been shown to be an effective insect repellent. This terpene’s potential medical benefits include anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Aroma: Minty, Cool

This terpene is the chemical precursor to menthol and shares a similar aroma profile. Isopulegol is known for its anxiolytic, gastroprotective and anti-convulsive properties. It may also hold promise in treating seizure disorders.

Aroma: Floral, Fruity, Rose

Geranyl acetate is a natural constituent of over 60 essential oils. In studies, this terpene has shown its anti-microbial properties when combined with other terpenes.

Aroma: Fresh, Citrus, Woody

This terpene is commonly found in cumin and thyme. Cymene has anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Aroma: Minty, Herbaceous

Pulegone is commonly used to flavor food and dental products. This terpene can be used as a sedative, expectorant, and insecticide.

Aroma: Dry, Fresh, Spicy, Sweet, Woody

Caryophyllene oxide, β-caryophyllene, and α-humulene are the three isoprene units that make up the sesquiterpene caryophyllene. Due to caryophyllene oxide’s anti-fungal properties, it is often used as a preservative in food, drugs and cosmetics.

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