The Science Behind the Smell of Cannabis: More Than Just Terpenes
When you take a whiff of cannabis, you may think that its unique aroma is solely due to its terpenes. But a recent study by Abstrax Tech reveals that there’s more to the story.
Uncovering the Aromas of Weed: Abstrax Tech’s Groundbreaking Research
The team at Abstrax Tech delved into the world of cannabis aromas by examining 31 different varieties of ice water hash. This solventless extraction method separates trichomes from the rest of the plant, allowing for a more accurate analysis of the compounds responsible for its smell.
The samples, many of which were produced by 710 Labs, were divided into three categories: sweet exotic, prototypical (average-smelling cannabis), and savory exotic. The most extreme smelling strains were then further examined to identify the compounds that contribute to their pungent aroma.
What they found was that the distinct aromas were not solely due to terpenes, but rather a complex interplay of various compounds such as alcohols, esters, aldehydes, and more. These compounds produce a range of scents from fruity to sweet, tropical, or even chemical.
The Sweet and Savory Side of Cannabis: New Discoveries in Aromatic Compounds
Beyond the well-known terpenes, there are other compounds that contribute to the unique aromas of cannabis. These compounds, referred to as “flavorants,” are not to be confused with “flavonoids,” which give purple cannabis its color.
One of the most interesting findings from Abstrax Tech’s research is the discovery of a new class of tropical volatile sulfur compounds, aptly named “tropicannasulfurs.” These compounds are responsible for the deep citrusy smell found in strains like Papaya, Guava, and Tangie.
On the other end of the spectrum, strains like GMO and Chemdawg contain a compound called “skatole,” which is naturally found in feces. However, at the low levels found in cannabis, it produces a savory, funky, and gassy aroma.
But it’s not just one compound that gives each strain its unique smell. It’s a combination of dozens, if not hundreds, of aromatic compounds that work together to create a one-of-a-kind scent.
Floral, Fruity, Creamy, and Chemical: Exploring the Different Aromas of Cannabis
Aside from the sweet and savory aromas, there are other scents found in cannabis that have their own unique compounds responsible for their smell. These compounds, known as “flavorants,” include esters as a main driver of the fruity smell. In fact, some strains like Banana Scream have over 15 unique esters contributing to their aroma.
Abstrax Tech’s research is groundbreaking in that it is the first time these small molecules have been directly attributed to the smell of cannabis. This new understanding of the complex aromas of cannabis opens up a whole new world of possibilities for breeders and consumers alike.
