Cannabis is renowned for its distinctive and pungent aroma. This smell tends to permeate car interiors, linger in rooms long after consumption, and cling to individuals who regularly partake in its use. While many plants release unique scents, the smell of cannabis is particularly potent, often described as skunky.
Many Australians can recall their first encounter with the unmistakable scent of cannabis. For me, it was during a late-night stroll across the university campus. That strong, musky fragrance hit me hard, creating a lasting memory associated with the plant.
In this article, we will delve into the compounds that contribute to the characteristic skunky smell of cannabis, examine the science behind these aromas, and share tips on how to mitigate the lingering scent in an Australian context.
The Science Behind Cannabis’ Skunky Smell
Cannabis contains over 200 cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds that shape its unique scent profile. For many years, scientists believed that the skunky aroma was primarily due to certain terpenes—organic compounds responsible for the aromas of many plants, including hops and mangoes.
Roger Brown, the founder and president of ACS Laboratory, notes that initial research pointed to terpenes like myrcene and caryophyllene as key contributors to the cannabis scent. However, recent groundbreaking research has shifted this understanding.
In 2021, a research team in California, led by Dr. Iain Oswald, PhD, Principal Scientist at Abstrax Tech, discovered that the unmistakable skunky odor of cannabis is largely attributed to volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs). These are the same compounds that skunks release as a defense mechanism.
Interestingly, VSCs also occur in various plants with strong scents, such as garlic, hops, and durian—fruits so pungent they are banned on public transport in some regions of Southeast Asia. VSCs are powerful odorants, providing intense aromas even in minute concentrations.
The Role of Volatile Sulfur Compounds
Dr. Oswald’s research utilized advanced gas chromatography techniques to analyze cannabis flowers and concentrates. They uncovered that not only do VSCs exist in cannabis, but some have never been identified in nature before. This finding indicates that VSCs are primarily responsible for the plant’s signature smell.
“Even the aerosol spray of a skunk, while similar in aroma to cannabis, does not contain the same compounds,” Dr. Oswald explains. “They share similar chemical structures, which is why they evoke comparable scents.” Furthermore, the VSCs found in cannabis exhibit structural similarities to those present in garlic.
One specific compound, known as 3-methyl-2-butene-1-thiol (or VSC3), appears to significantly influence cannabis’ aroma. VSC3 emits an intense, sulfuric, and skunky scent even in very low concentrations. This compound has also been linked to the smell of certain beers, further highlighting its potent nature.
Importantly, the research showed that VSCs are not limited to cannabis flowers. Concentrates also retain these compounds through the extraction process, contributing to their strong skunky aromas.
The Contribution of Terpenes and Flavonoids
While VSCs are now recognized as the primary drivers of cannabis’ skunky smell, terpenes and flavonoids still play a crucial role in creating the plant’s overall scent profile. Terpenes are organic compounds that give various plants their unique aromas, with over 100 different terpenes identified in cannabis alone.
Kat Andrews, Senior Director at Cresco Labs, points out that while some terpenes impart sweet or fruity notes, others can be quite pungent. For instance, the strain OG Kush has a strong, fuel-like aroma due to its high levels of myrcene and caryophyllene. Conversely, Jack Herer exhibits a woodsy, citrusy scent thanks to terpinolene and pinene.
Brown suggests that terpenes are more closely linked to the citrus and floral notes found in cannabis. However, he also believes that lesser-known compounds, such as ketones and esters, could affect the scent by altering the composition of terpenes.
Exploring the Potential Benefits of Cannabis’ Aromatic Compounds
The various compounds in cannabis, including terpenes, flavonoids, and VSCs, contribute not only to its scent but also to its ecological functions. These compounds can deter pests, attract pollinators, and help plants adapt to environmental stressors like drought and UV radiation.
Interestingly, when humans consume these aromatic compounds, they can evoke unique therapeutic responses. Although research on the applications of terpenes is still in its early stages, initial findings suggest they may help alleviate anxiety, reduce pain, and combat viruses. Flavonoids are also known to possess numerous health benefits, leading researchers to explore whether VSCs might also have therapeutic properties.
Brown highlights that VSCs in garlic, for example, have been linked to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and even anticancer effects. The structural similarities between the VSCs found in cannabis and those in garlic open the door for future research into their potential health benefits.
Managing the Smell of Cannabis in Australia
While some may appreciate the strong aroma of cannabis, others find it off-putting. For example, after cannabis legalization in regions like Denver, numerous complaints about odors led to the establishment of a dedicated team to address these concerns.
Understanding when cannabis emits its most potent smells is key to managing its aroma. Dr. Oswald’s team studied the evolution of VSCs throughout the cannabis plant’s lifecycle and during the curing process. They found that the age of the plant significantly affects the intensity of its skunky scent.
“The unique cannabis VSCs become detectable around the seventh week of flowering and peak during the curing process,” Andrews notes. However, concentrations of VSCs start to decline rapidly after storage due to their volatility. For example, cannabis tested just four days after packaging had nearly three times the VSC concentration compared to cannabis tested 46 days later.
To soften the odor of particularly pungent cannabis, consider these strategies:
- Ventilation: Open windows to allow fresh air to circulate.
- Aromatherapy: Light incense or scented candles to mask the smell.
- Air Purifiers: Invest in a portable air purifier to help eliminate odors.
- Proper Storage: Use airtight containers or stash boxes to minimize scent leakage.
For those who want to avoid the smell altogether, consuming cannabis in edible form can be an effective alternative.
Conclusion
The unique and potent aroma of cannabis is a defining characteristic of the plant, with VSCs playing a crucial role in its signature scent. As research continues to explore the complexities of cannabis’ aromatic compounds, we gain a deeper understanding of not only the plant itself but also its potential benefits and how to manage its strong odor in daily life— especially in the vibrant and diverse context of Australia.
