What does marijuana smell like?

Modified on: 10/01/2024

THE ROLE OF TERPENES IN THE OLFACTORY EMISSIONS OF MARIJUANA SMOKE

The various types of CBD cannabis do not all have the same distinct smell though. As sommeliers associate the smell similar the many aromas emanating from wine and beer with distinct fragrances (fresh herbs, grapefruit, truffle etc.), cannabis experts also manage to give an explicit name to the numerous scents of cannabis’ different varieties.

To the question “What does smoked marijuana smell like ?” But we cannot answer with a single odor or term.

Over 120 different terpenes have been detected in cannabis flowers, i.e. biomolecules found naturally in cannabis (but not only). These chemicals are also present in many foods, in many plants and essential oils, and are mainly responsible for the characteristic aromas released by cannabis plants.

Back to our topic, marijuana flowers have a multitude of trichomes: small translucent mushroom-shaped growths, which produce a sticky resin. The terpenes are found right inside this sweet resin, which also contains CBD, THC and many other cannabinoids.

However, it is possible, that you did not notice the cannabis strains different fragrances, and cannot distinguish – for example – the aroma of Do Si Dos from the White Widow.

Today, before explaining what the most typical perfumes of good cannabis are, and the odours of weed in a bad state of conservation, we will give you some advice to better smell the aromas of the inflorescences. Read on, and you will discover everything, absolutely everything, about marijuana smells!

The most effective way to grasp the “bouquet” of a marijuana bud

If you intend to go to cannabis festivals, we advise you not to adopt the method you are about to read. At the Amsterdam Cannabis Cup the buds are on display and they are judged by experts. If you mistreat them, you could (rightly) unleash the wrath of the owners.

You should adopt this method: only smell and sniff the weed buds from your supply of CBD flowers. But let’s get to the point … Here is what you should do to better smell all the aromas of a cannabis flower: take the already dried weed flower, gently squeeze it and, finally, smell it.

The squeezing of the hemp flowers causes the release of terpenes and gas by the plant trichomes. However, this practice damages the plant trichomes themselves, so in order not to waste too much marijuana, it would be better to take a small bud.

Touching the plants in full bloom to feel their aromas is not an advisable method, as you could transfer bacteria to the flower or weaken the bud (which could then develop mould and fungi).

Now that you know how to best to say what does marijuana smell like from a cannabis flower, let’s see what the most classic nuances of aromas are.

Read also: Marlboro & Cannabis: the story (that made the buzz) of the “rigged” cigarettes

Unveiling the Distinct Cannabis Smell: Characteristics Across Marijuana Products

The cannabis smell, often associated with the distinct aroma of marijuana, exhibits generic characteristics that vary among different strains other plants, and products derived from the cannabis plant. Whether smoking cannabis, exploring various strains, or encountering cannabis-related scents, the olfactory experience is shaped by a rich combination of organic compounds, terpenes, and volatile sulfur compounds unique to each strain.

One of the most common smells and recognizable scents associated with cannabis is the skunky aroma. Many marijuana strains emit a skunk-like smell, often likened to the pungent odor of skunk spray. This skunky smell is a result of specific terpenes and organic compounds present in the cannabis plant, contributing to a characteristic odor that is both distinctive and potent.

Apart from the skunky aroma, the cannabis smell can encompass a spectrum of scents, including earthy, woody, sweet, lemon, citrus, and more. Different strains of marijuana smoke exhibit distinct smell from various combinations of terpenes, organic compounds responsible for the diverse range of aromas found in cannabis. For example, the earthy scent is often associated with strains rich in myrcene, while strains with limonene may give off a citrusy aroma.

While the cannabis smell is a signature feature of smoking marijuana, it is not limited to dried flowers or the act and scent of smoking marijuana itself. Cannabis scents can be present in other forms of marijuana products, such as edibles, concentrates, or oils. The odor profile may vary, but the underlying terpenes and organic compounds still contribute to the characteristic cannabis smell.

It’s essential to note that synthetic marijuana or products containing chemical compounds may lack the nuanced and complex aroma found in natural cannabis. The distinct cannabis smell is a result of the interplay of various organic compounds, and attempts to replicate it artificially may fall short of capturing the richness and diversity present in the cannabis plant.

Research conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse has explored the common terpenes found in cannabis, shedding light on the correlation between terpenes and the unique smells associated with different strains. Additionally, some marijuana strains have been noted to possess a skunky smell that, to some individuals, may be reminiscent of cat urine.

In conclusion, the cannabis smell is a complex and multifaceted characteristic that defines the olfactory experience of marijuana products. Whether it’s the skunky aroma, earthy scent, or citrusy notes, the cannabis plant’s organic compounds and terpenes contribute to a diverse range of cannabis smells across various strains and products. Understanding these common scents adds to the appreciation of the intricate world of cannabis smells and aromas.

The main smells of CBD cannabis

Avery Gilbert, who describes himself as a “sense scientist” and “sensory psychologist”, together with Joseph DiVerdi, an associate professor at Colorado State University, identified 48 sensory descriptors related to the aromas of marijuana smell the different types common strains of marijuana.

Here is the complete list of perfumes that you could pick by scent smelling your legal weed:

• Earthy

• Herbal

• Woody

• Floral

• Sweet

• Citrus

• Pungent

• Pine tree

• Greeny

• Sage

• Diesel

• Lemon

• Lavender

• Hazelnut

• Spices

• Skunk

• Tropical fruit

• Honey

• Chemist

• Rose

• Cheese

• Grapefruit

• Orange

• Berry

• Menthol

• Peppery

• Grapes

• Apricot

• Mint

• Tobacco

• Fruit tree

• Blueberry

• Vanilla

• Ammonia

• Pineapple

• Blue cheese

• Mango

• Butter

• Plum

• Violet

• Chestnut

• Coffee

• Apple

• Pear

• Fishing

• Tar

• Strawberry

If you feel one or more of these aromas, then you are sure that you are dealing smoking marijuana with excellent inflorescences. You can also train yourself to compare the smells of different types of cannabis, but remember to smell coffee beans between your sniffs, to “reset” the sense of smell and better small the scents.

Do you suspect that your flowers have developed mould and parasites, or that they are not in perfect condition anyway? Then read this next paragraph!

Read also: Medical marijuana: cannabis FM2

Unfavourable odours of cannabis: here it smells when it is damaged, mouldy or attacked by pests.

Here are all the smells you need to pay attention to when opening your marijuana can or bag:

• Freshly cut grass: If your cannabis buds smell like you have just finished mowing the lawn, then you have low-quality grass in your hands. It is the stench of the gases released during the decomposition of chlorophyll and is an indication of cannabis not treated optimally.

• Sweat or urine: ok, some types of marijuana may have a slight hint of ammonia, but beware of strong odours of urine or acres such as sweat. Your cannabis has probably been attacked by mould or fungi.

• Burnt hair: this smell can indicate the use of chemicals during the cultivation of hemp plants.

Do you want to avoid having these odours? Then, store your cannabis buds flawlessly (preferably in a glass jar) and buy only high-quality grass, such as the one you find in the Justbob shop altogether with many CBD products, like CBD oil.

In our shop, you can buy the best organic cannabis, grown sustainably and without the use of pesticides, chemical fertilizers and other harmful substances. What are you waiting for? Try it now!