The Science of Terpenes and Temperature: Why It Matters

The Fragility of Nature’s Aromatic Compounds

Terpenes, the aromatic compounds responsible for the scents and flavors of plants, are a cornerstone of the cannabis and wellness industries. They contribute not only to a strain’s distinctive profile but also to its effects, thanks to their interaction with the human endocannabinoid system. Yet, despite their potency, terpenes are surprisingly delicate. Temperature plays a crucial role in preserving or degrading these compounds, making it essential to understand how to handle terpenes during various processes, from extraction and storage to consumption.

Understanding the Boiling Points of Terpenes

Each terpene has a specific boiling point—the temperature at which it transitions from a liquid to a gas. At or above this temperature, terpenes begin to volatilise, which can affect both their aroma and potency. 

The Impact of Temperature on Terpene Integrity

Temperature can significantly influence the integrity of terpenes in the following ways:

1. High Temperatures: Loss of Aroma and Potency
   • When terpenes are exposed to temperatures above their boiling points, they volatilise, resulting in the loss of aroma and flavour.
   • At excessively high temperatures, terpenes can degrade into byproducts with altered or diminished effects. For instance, linalool exposed to high heat can oxidize, leading to a harsher scent and reduced efficacy.
2. Low Temperatures: Preservation of Aroma
   • Storing terpenes at lower temperatures helps prevent evaporation and degradation. Refrigeration or freezing slows down oxidation processes and keeps the profile intact for extended periods.
3. Intermediate Temperatures: The Sweet Spot for Consumption
   • Properly calibrated temperatures during consumption (e.g., vaping) ensure the full terpene profile is experienced. Too low, and terpenes may not activate; too high, and they burn off.

Terpenes and Vaping: Finding the Perfect Temperature

Vaping is one of the most terpene-friendly methods of consumption, but it requires careful attention to temperature. Since terpenes volatilise at different points, a multi-temperature approach is ideal:

• Low-Temperature Range (160–180°C / 320–356°F): Preserves lighter, more delicate terpenes like pinene and myrcene. Provides subtle flavour and aroma while minimising harshness.
• Medium-Temperature Range (180–200°C / 356–392°F): Activates heavier terpenes like limonene and beta-caryophyllene for a fuller flavour profile.
• High-Temperature Range (200–220°C / 392–428°F): Best for releasing cannabinoids while retaining some of the more robust terpenes. Be cautious, as terpenes can start degrading in this range.

Temperature and Extraction: Maintaining Terpene Profiles

Extraction is another critical stage where temperature control can make or break a terpene profile. High-heat extraction methods, like supercritical CO₂ or ethanol extraction, often lead to terpene loss if the process isn’t optimised. Conversely, low-heat extraction methods, such as cold-pressed or hydrocarbon techniques, prioritise preserving terpenes by avoiding their boiling points.

• Supercritical CO₂ Extraction: Can strip delicate terpenes unless temperatures are carefully controlled.
• Steam Distillation: Common for essential oils but risks terpene loss at higher temperatures.
• Cold Pressing: Ideal for preserving the integrity of citrus-based terpenes like limonene.

Storage Considerations: Keeping Terpenes Fresh

Proper storage is essential to maintaining terpene potency over time. Here are some tips for maximising their shelf life:

• Temperature: Store terpenes in a cool, dark place, ideally below 20°C (68°F). Refrigeration or freezing is even better for long-term storage.
• Containers: Use airtight, UV-resistant glass containers to prevent exposure to light and oxygen, which accelerate degradation.
• Humidity Control: Avoid high humidity, as it can lead to oxidation and contamination.

Applications: Leveraging Temperature Knowledge

Understanding the science of terpenes and temperature isn’t just theoretical—it’s highly practical. Here’s how this knowledge can be applied:

1. Product Development:
   • Optimise vaping devices to offer multi-temperature settings, ensuring a full-spectrum experience.
   • Design storage solutions or packaging that accounts for temperature stability, especially for terpene-infused products.
2. Consumer Education:
   • Provide guidance on the best temperatures for vaping or cooking with terpenes to preserve their effects.
   • Offer insights on why proper storage extends product quality and shelf life.
3. Quality Assurance:
   • Use temperature-controlled extraction methods to produce terpene-rich products.
   • Implement rigorous testing protocols to ensure terpene profiles remain intact during processing and storage.

The Delicate Dance of Terpenes and Temperature

Terpenes are the unsung heroes of the aromatic and therapeutic world, but their delicate nature demands respect and understanding. By mastering the interplay between terpenes and temperature, we can unlock their full potential—whether through optimised consumption methods, precise extraction techniques, or proper storage practices.

As the cannabis and wellness industries continue to innovate, keeping terpene integrity at the forefront ensures that consumers enjoy the richest, most authentic experiences possible. Remember, a terpene’s journey from plant to product is as much about preservation as it is about discovery—and temperature is the key to it all.