{"id":2543974,"date":"2023-05-31T12:27:57","date_gmt":"2023-05-31T16:27:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/platoai.gbaglobal.org\/platowire\/the-cause-of-marijuanas-strong-skunk-smell-not-terpenes\/"},"modified":"2023-05-31T12:27:57","modified_gmt":"2023-05-31T16:27:57","slug":"the-cause-of-marijuanas-strong-skunk-smell-not-terpenes","status":"publish","type":"platowire","link":"https:\/\/platoai.gbaglobal.org\/platowire\/the-cause-of-marijuanas-strong-skunk-smell-not-terpenes\/","title":{"rendered":"The Cause of Marijuana’s Strong “Skunk” Smell: Not Terpenes"},"content":{"rendered":"

Marijuana is a plant that has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for centuries. It is known for its distinct smell, which is often described as “skunky.” For years, it was believed that the cause of this smell was terpenes, which are organic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. However, recent research has shown that terpenes may not be the primary cause of marijuana’s strong odor.<\/p>\n

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give plants their unique smells. They are found in many different plants, including cannabis. In fact, there are over 100 different terpenes found in cannabis, each with its own unique aroma and potential medicinal benefits. Terpenes are also responsible for the different strains of cannabis, such as Sour Diesel or Blue Dream, which have distinct smells and effects.<\/p>\n

For years, it was believed that terpenes were the primary cause of marijuana’s strong odor. However, recent research has shown that this may not be the case. In a study published in the journal Nature, researchers found that a group of compounds called thiols were actually responsible for the skunky smell of marijuana.<\/p>\n

Thiols are sulfur-containing compounds that are found in many different foods and beverages, including garlic, onions, and beer. They are also found in marijuana, and it is believed that they are produced during the drying and curing process. Thiols are highly volatile, meaning that they evaporate quickly and easily, which is why they contribute to the strong odor of marijuana.<\/p>\n

The researchers in the Nature study found that when they removed the thiols from marijuana, the skunky smell was significantly reduced. This suggests that thiols are the primary cause of marijuana’s strong odor, rather than terpenes.<\/p>\n

While terpenes may not be the primary cause of marijuana’s skunky smell, they still play an important role in the plant’s overall aroma and effects. Terpenes have been shown to have potential medicinal benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties. They also contribute to the different strains of cannabis, which have varying effects on the body and mind.<\/p>\n

In conclusion, while terpenes are important compounds found in marijuana, they may not be the primary cause of the plant’s strong skunky smell. Recent research has shown that thiols, a group of sulfur-containing compounds, are actually responsible for the odor. However, terpenes still play an important role in the plant’s overall aroma and effects, and further research is needed to fully understand their potential medicinal benefits.<\/p>\n