How Terpenes fit into the Canadian Legalization

 Another large domino has fallen. As of October 17, 2018, the fine people of Canada (and visiting foreigners) officially have the right to recreationally enjoy. But, while this is a huge step in the right direction, there are a few key details that still need some attention.

The concept of terpenes

A simple analogy for understanding as a whole is likening it to a vehicle: c-compounds are the fuel and terpenes are the steering wheel. C-compounds propel the user, while terpenes guide the journey.

What are C-Compounds?

C-compounds, most notably delta-9-tetrahydrocanabinol  among others , usually occupy the spotlight for their effect on the human body. One compound is traditionally associated with the psychoactive effect that users experience, otherwise known as the “high”. The other, on the other hand, has no psychoactive effect, and may even diminish the potency of the former if they are used together. However, both share similar therapeutic effects related to managing pain, decreasing nausea, reducing muscle spasms, and much more.

One interesting point (for nerds like us) is that the molecular formulas for either compound are identical: 21 atoms of carbon, 30 hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. The only difference is the atomic arrangement, resulting in their profoundly different effects.

The effects of terpenes in products

Ironically, c-compounds don’t smell like [our favorite plant]. Enter terpenes. These intensely smelling chemicals are produced in plants associated with particular aromas. Common examples are pine trees (which are prominent in the terpene pinene), black pepper (beta-caryophyllene), and mangos (myrcene). Due to their non-psychoactive properties and wonderful flavors, terpenes are commonly used in perfumes, food additives, cleaning products, etc.

In addition to possessing aroma, terpenes affect the human body when consumed. From the examples above, pinene triggers feelings of alertness, while myrcene acts as a sedative. Fascinatingly, terpenes act in conjunction with c-compound, sometimes boosting their effects. So, using a strain or extract with a high myrcene content will result in a profoundly sleepy sensation. 

The times they are a-changin'

Yes, adults in Canada are finally free from police-related paranoia while rolling up. However, now the product going into an individual’s paper, pipe, etc. has to be regulated by the powers that be. Just like food, medicine, and other consumable products, pot is required to meet certain qualifications before being eligible for commercial sale.

This development marks the end of weed’s Wild West - a world of black market products that may or may not be tainted with heavy metals, filler substances, and a little nail polish remover. It’s true, the era of stereotypical flower children covertly growing in hidden fields and selling in alleyways is over.

Why you want consistency in your products 

Now, when a customer or patient purchases a material labeled Blue Dream in a government certified dispensary, they expect it to be very similar, if not identical, to the batch of Blue Dream they picked up last time. These individuals may indeed be seeking treatment for medical conditions, so it’s literally vital that the product they use to moderate their inflammation, pain, etc., is consistent and reliable.

Why to choose Abstrax terpenes for your products

Unlike the many terpene distributors prevented from doing business in Canada, Abstrax’s commitment to quality has opened those northern doors. Every single product we put our name on is solvent-free, 100% pure, and was manufactured according to current good manufacturing practice (cGMP) in pristine laboratories built to purpose. In short, this means pride is taken in each step of our process - from sustainably sourcing ingredients, to storage, and finally in shipping.