Terpene Cocktail Recipes
Terpenes are what give cannabis its signature smell and flavor and also contain many highly beneficial compounds that contribute to the plant’s therapeutic benefits. Though not as widely known as cannabis’ other compounds, in the last few years, more and more people have become aware of its healing power, leading to the development of many unique and inventive products. Unlike CBD products, terpene blends typically do not contain any THC, making them a good option for those who want to stay away from the intoxicating effects of THC. The latest trend to attract aficionados and casual enthusiasts alike is the use of terpenes in cocktails.
There are more than 200 types of terpenes found in cannabis, with majority of them existing in very low quantities, making the undetectable to scientists. The more popular types of terpenes include:
Myrcene - Among the more prominent terpene profiles in cannabis, these are responsible for the earthy aromas people commonly associate with weed.
Benefits - Can help alleviate pain and treat osteoarthritis.
Beta-Caryophyllene - Apart from cannabis, these can also be found in cloves, rosemary, and hops. They give off a clovey and peppery scent.
Benefits - Relieves pain and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Pinene - Most commonly found in pine trees, they’re the most prevalent terpenes found in nature.
Benefits - Has anti-inflammatory properties, protects from ulcers, and improves airflow to lungs.
Limonene - Usually found in citrus fruits and is often added to cleaning products and fragrances.
Benefits - Boosts immune system, alleviates heartburn, and can help get rid of gallstones.
Terpinolene - These are found in plants like rosemary, apples, conifers, and lilac.
Benefits - Has antioxidant and sedative properties and can decrease the proliferation of cancer cells.
Linalool - Gives off a floral scent with a touch of spiciness and is found in plants like coriander, lavender, bay leaves, and sweet basil.
Benefits - Has anti-acne, antidepressant, sedative, and anti-anxiety properties.
Humulene - Often found alongside beta-caryophyllene, and is found in plants such as hops, tobacco, sunflowers, and Vietnamese coriander.
Benefits - Has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Nerolidol - Smells woody and is reminiscent of fresh bark; it’s used as both a flavoring agent and in perfumery, and is found in ginger, lemongrass, jasmine, and tea tree.
Benefits - Has antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-fungal properties, and is being tested as a skin penetration enhancer for the transdermal delivery of therapeutic drugs.
Los Angeles’ Prank Bar has a wide selection of terpene cocktails that give customers a health boost while also packing a punch when it comes to flavor. Considered a pioneer in terpene cocktails, their drinks’ menu includes drinks like La Ventura, a tequila-based cocktail with apricot, fresh citrus, and limonene terpenes, and the Lazy Daisy, which is made with gin, grapefruit juice, amaro, and humulene terpenes. The bar also carries its own proprietary blend of terpenes.
Want to make terpene cocktails that rival this famous bar’s? First off, you’ll need access to quality terpene products. And while you might not be able to create your very own proprietary blend, luckily, there are number of reputable companies that provide high quality products, such as Abstrax Tech, True Terpenes, and Lab Effects.
Once you’re armed with your terpenes, you’re ready to delve into the world of terpene cocktails. Here are three easy recipes you can make to level up your cannabis cocktail game.
Lemon Drop
Makes: 3 servings
Effects: Uplifting and unwinding
Ingredients:
2 drops of True Terpenes’ Limoncello Terpene Blend
1 cup frozen vodka
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup sugar
1 lemon thinly sliced
1/2 cup ice
Directions:
Combine the vodka, juice, sugar, and ice in a cocktail shaker. Give it 10 vigorous shakes, and then pour into a martini glass. Garnish with each glass with a lemon slice and enjoy.
Spicy Mango Margarita
Makes: 2 servings
Effects: Relaxing and pain-relieving
Ingredients:
2 drops of Abstrax Tech’s Mango Terpene Blend
4 oz silver tequila
2 oz Cointreau
4 oz fresh lime juice
8 oz mango juice
3 jalapeños, charred and chopped
1 cup fresh mango, diced
Limes for garnish
Directions:
1. Rim a cocktail glass with lime and salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add some of the chopped jalapeño and fresh mango and muddle well.
3. Add tequila, lime juice, mango juice, and the drops of terpenes. Shake until adequately chilled.
4. Pour into a prepared glass filled with ice. Garnish with some chopped mango, charred jalapeño, and a slice of lime.
The Paloma
Makes 2 servings
Effects: Creative and relaxing
Ingredients:
2 drops of True Terpenes’ Grapefruit Kush
4 ounces silver tequila
1 ounce fresh lime juice
8 ounces grapefruit soda
1/2 cup of ice
Salt
Directions:
1. Rim a collins glass with salt and lime.
2. Fill the glass with ice and then add the lime juice, tequila, and drops of Grapefruit Kush terpenes.
3. Top with grapefruit soda, stir until well-combined, and enjoy!
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