Cannabis distillate is a highly refined form of cannabis extract, typically appearing as a viscous, golden liquid. This product is often sought for its purity, primarily containing a single cannabinoid like THC or CBD in high concentrations, sometimes reaching up to 99% purity. Alongside this, terpenes are aromatic compounds found in various plants, including cannabis, and are responsible for their distinct scents and flavors. A common question among consumers is whether these flavorful terpenes are naturally present in cannabis distillate.
Understanding Distillate and Terpenes
Distillate is created through a refinement process that isolates specific compounds from the cannabis plant, leaving behind most other plant material. This purification results in a product that is nearly pure cannabinoid, making it a versatile ingredient for vape cartridges, edibles, and topical applications due to its light taste and aroma.
Terpenes, conversely, are organic compounds produced in the sticky, translucent glands of female cannabis plants, known as trichomes. They are responsible for the diverse aromatic profiles found across different cannabis strains, ranging from citrusy to earthy notes. Beyond contributing to scent and flavor, terpenes are also being studied for their potential to interact with cannabinoids and influence the overall experience of cannabis consumption.
Why Pure Distillate Lacks Terpenes
The primary reason pure distillate contains very few, if any, naturally occurring terpenes stems from the distillation process itself. This refinement typically involves fractional distillation, a method that separates compounds based on their distinct boiling points using precise temperature and pressure controls. Terpenes are volatile compounds with lower boiling points compared to cannabinoids like THC and CBD. For instance, some terpenes can begin to evaporate at temperatures as low as 70°F, with most degrading around 100°F, while cannabinoids require much higher temperatures.
During distillation, the cannabis extract is heated, causing compounds to vaporize at their respective boiling points. Terpenes, being more volatile, evaporate and are separated out early in the process. This meticulous separation ensures a highly purified cannabinoid product, but it also means that the natural flavors, aromas, and other plant compounds are largely removed. The resulting distillate is a clean, potent oil that is largely devoid of the original plant’s natural terpene profile.
The Role of Added Terpenes in Distillate Products
Even though pure distillate lacks terpenes, manufacturers frequently reintroduce them into the final product. This practice aims to restore or create specific flavor and aroma profiles that are lost during the rigorous distillation process. Without added terpenes, distillate often presents a neutral or flat taste. The reintroduction allows for customization, enabling products to mimic classic strain profiles or offer novel taste experiences.
Terpenes added to distillate can be sourced in two main ways: cannabis-derived terpenes (CDTs) or botanical terpenes (BTs). CDTs are extracted directly from cannabis plants and are valued for replicating the authentic aromatic fingerprint of specific strains. Botanical terpenes, conversely, come from non-cannabis plants like lavender or citrus, and are often blended to mimic cannabis profiles or create unique flavors. Beyond flavor, the reintroduction of terpenes is often done to leverage the “entourage effect,” a theory suggesting that cannabinoids and terpenes work synergistically to produce more comprehensive effects than either compound alone. This interaction can influence the overall experience and potentially enhance therapeutic benefits.