The principal difference between terpenes and flavonoids in cannabis is a battle of the senses: terpenes give cannabis its smell, while flavonoids create its unique color.
Flavonoids and terpenes contribute to cannabis’ flavor and smell.
The two are similar but offer different therapeutic effects. Flavonoids are abundant in nature. Each strain of cannabis has its own flavor and color due to flavonoids. Cannabis contains 20 flavonoids, although there may be others yet to be discovered. ‘Cannflavins A, B, and C make up cannabis. Cannabis has many flavonoids that are thought to have health benefits such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, improving cardiovascular function, antibacterial, and preventing against diabetes, cancer, and other diseases. Terpenes are organic compounds found in plants that contribute to cannabis’ distinct taste and aroma. Terpenes exist everywhere in nature and have their own potential health benefits. Terpenes, which are found in the plant’s trichomes, also influence a cannabis cultivar’s sensory experience. Terpenes have been shown to have health benefits for a variety of conditions. Some benefits may include anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, mood-boosting, and cancer/tumor fighting properties, but further research and clinical trials are required. Terpenes may also reduce anxiety in those under stress. Terpenes and flavonoids are active compounds in cannabis, though science has not yet researched their role in cannabis thoroughly. Flavonoids and terpenes both affect the body and each make up about 2% of the dry weight of the cannabis plant, but terpenes are a lot more diverse. Flavonoids are also harder to find in nature, so terpenes are the more accessible compound.