Nowadays, consumer interest is shifting towards a preference for non-psychoactive substances like terpenes. In turn, the demand for information about terpene use is growing as new users are more inclined to learn how to maximize these compounds.
An excellent way to get the most out of them is by emphasizing terpene boiling points. Terpenes start dissipating once they reach their boiling point, accentuating their distinct aromas and flavor. This effect stresses temperature’s importance in enhancing your experience with any flower.
Want to get the full benefits of using terpenes? This blog will discuss common terpenes’ boiling points and explore why these temperatures are essential to getting the best end-product possible.
Terpene Boiling Points: Why Do They Matter?
A terpene’s boiling point is the temperature at which it dissipates. This figure is higher than its evaporation point but occurs before it starts burning off. Knowing the golden number for each terpene is crucial because they decay quickly under extreme temperatures. Even during consumption, excessive heat from lighters and vape coils degrades the terpene’s quality and effects.
Moreover, taking advantage of boiling points is critical to maximizing terpenes’ taste and smell. Overheating risks burning them off, especially since they have low evaporating temperatures compared to other flower components. Each terpene has a different boiling point, and correctly heating them helps preserve their unique flavor and aroma.
Terpenes enhance the therapeutic effect of psychoactive compounds through the entourage effect, so treating them properly will enable you to get the best possible experience.
Common Terpenes
Again, terpenes’ ideal temperatures depend on their type. Let’s discuss some common terpenes and their boiling points to help you optimize their use.
1. Limonene
Limonene, an oil in citrus fruits, has a boiling point of 349°F (176°C), making it handy for cooking flowers at low temperatures. Limonene is best known for its orange-like smell, thanks to its source, but it’s also present in chamomile and ginger. It’s said to help users manage fatigue and stress.
2. Pinene
Pinene is a common terpene in nature, existing in pine needles and spices such as rosemary, parsley, and basil. It boils at 311°F (155°C), a temperature ideal for vapes and teas to minimize damage to the terpene. Pinene has the aroma of pine trees, soothing those who encounter its scent.
3. Linalool
Linalool comes from the oils of fruits like apples and grapes. Its boiling point sits at 390°F (198°C), making it useful for mid-temperature cooking and baking. Manufacturers also use linalool as a flavoring agent and an ingredient in soaps and detergents.
4. Myrcene
Myrcene is a popular flavoring and food additive that boils at 334°F (167°C), which is fit for vaping and low-temperature cooking. It comes from basil, lemongrass, and mango, emitting a sweet and earthy aroma that calms people. It also influences a strain’s strength, which means myrcene-high strains practically act as sedatives.
5. Beta-Caryophyllene
Beta-caryophyllene is present in essential oils like clove, giving strains an earthy, spicy, and herbal flavor. It has a low boiling point of 266°F (130°C) and is suitable for low-heat processing and consumption. Beta-caryophyllene is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Humulene
You can find humulene in hops, with a distinct, spicy smell of ginger or ginseng that gives beer its unique taste. It boils at a low temperature of 225°F (107°C). Also known as alpha-caryophyllene, is said to have anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressant properties.
7. Eucalyptol
Eucalyptol primarily comes from the eucalyptus tree, hence the name, but you can also find it in citrus and laurel. It boils at 349°F (176°C), similar to limonene, which is suitable for low-temperature cooking. Eucalyptol also has a minty taste and smell, making it a popular flavoring ingredient.
8. Phytol
Phytol boils at 396°F (203°C), ideal for most heat-based consumption. It can be found in green tea, tobacco, and eggplants, emitting a grassy taste and aroma. Phytol is also said to help ease anxiety and inflammation.
9. Terpineol
Terpineol is an alcohol present in oils from pine and bitter orange tree. It has a boiling point of 426°F (218°C), keeping it from burning off even in high-temperature cooking and consumption. Terpineol distinctly smells like lilac and, therefore, is a common ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics.
10. Citronellol
As the name suggests, citronellol is present in citronella oil. It boils at 437°F (225°C) and adds floral and citrus notes to flowers. Its scent also makes it a popular ingredient in perfumes, soaps, and insect repellants.
11. Pulegone
Pulegone is present in mint and emits a strong, minty aroma. It has a high boiling point of 435°C (224°C), so it can survive high-temperature baking and cooking without fuss. That’s why pulegone commonly flavors alcoholic beverages and sweets, such as candies and ice creams.
12. Borneol
Thanks to its cool and spicy scent, Borneol is often an ingredient in perfumes. It emits a minty aroma, similar to eucalyptol, but with earthier undertones. More importantly, it has a high boiling point of 413°F (212°C).
13. Para-Cymene
Para-cymene is present in cumin, thyme, and basil. It boils at 351°F (177°C) and has a citrusy, sweet aroma. As such, it’s a common ingredient in fragrances and cleaning supplies.
Maximize Your Experience with Terpenes
Terpenes play an essential role in giving flowers aroma and flavor. More than that, the entourage effect enhances their effects upon consumption. Understanding terpenes’ boiling points lets you customize your experience with a strain and unlock its full potential.
More consumers are gradually shifting to terpene use. So, you can expect more research and innovations in this area, making it an exciting time for enthusiasts and the terpene industry as a whole.
