What causes the smell in cannabis?

^{Cannabis has a very strong, distinctive smell, often described as pungent, skunky, or earthy. The smell comes from a variety of compounds, which includes terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids.}

^{Terpenes are a type of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), responsible for the aroma of many plants. In cannabis, the terpenes are found in the resin gland, which are released when the plant is damaged or heated. While there are over 100 different terpenes that have been identified in the cannabis plant, each terpene has its own unique smell.}

^{Some of the most common terpenes in cannabis include:}

• ^{Limonene, which has a citrusy, lemony smell.}
• ^{Pinene, which has a piney, woody smell.}
• ^{Myrcene, which has a musky, earthy smell.}
• ^{Caryophyllene, which has a peppery, spicy smell.}
• ^{Linalool, which has a floral, lavender-like smell.}

^{Flavonoids are another class of plant compounds, responsible for the color and flavor of many fruits, vegetables, and flowers. In cannabis, flavonoids contribute to the plant's smell.}

^{Some of the most common flavonoids include:}

• ^{Quercetin, which has a bitter, astringent taste.}
• ^{Kaempferol, which has a sweet, floral taste.}
• ^{Apigenin, which has a bitter, herbaceous taste.}

^{Cannabinoids are responsible for the cannabis plant's psychoactive effects. The most well-known cannabinoid is THC, but there are over 100 other cannabinoids that have been identified. Cannabinoids also contribute to the smell of cannabis.}

^{Some of the most common cannabinoids that have a smell include:}

• ^{THC, which has a pungent, skunky smell.}
• ^{CBD, which has a mild, earthy smell.}
• ^{CBN, which has a musty, earthy smell.}

^{While the smell of cannabis is a complex mixture of terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids, each compound contributes to the overall aroma of the plant. The smell will vary, depending on the strain of the plant, the growing conditions, and the way the cannabis is processed.}

^{Sources: Healthline, ACS Omega, NIH}