Cannabis Skunky Smell and the Science Behind It

Have you ever wondered why weed smells like, well, skunk? Researchers recently discovered the science behind cannabis and its skunky smell.

Although cannabis is becoming more legal in more and more countries, we didn’t know the reason for its smell – until now. Previously, many speculated that the skunky smell came from terpenoids, a compound found in many types of cannabis. Terpenoids are also responsible for a large part of the smells we associate with cannabis, but it turns out that isn’t the reason for its Skunk property.

Instead, volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) cause that skunky smell. A group of scientists led by Ian Oswald found this when they took 13 flowers of different varieties. They discovered that the Bacio Gelato flower had a smell that most closely resembles the skunky pungency of cannabis. Chemically, this strain had more VSCs than any other.

To confirm that VSCs were the main component of skunk odors, the researchers mixed it with other common compounds in cannabis. The resulting smell was very similar to what we smell when lighting natural cannabis plants.

Photo by: Mylene2401

The science behind the Skunky smell of Skunk

In hindsight, it’s no great surprise that VSCs are the main culprit behind the skunky smell of cannabis. Previous findings had already shown that the main odor component of skunks and their spray came from VSC. These compounds also tend to be responsible for some of our most hated smells, including rotten eggs, stink bombs, and not to forget – our farts. It is this scientific basis that led Oswald’s team to study VSC in the first place, and they were right in their assumptions.

But as much as we may hate the smell of skunks or the gas on unruly roommates, it really isn’t all bad. Sulfur compounds also give us some pleasant scents, such as freshly roasted coffee. The smell of sulfur compounds is also closely related to medicinal properties. The molecular structure of VSC is similar to garlic, which is known for its anti-cancer properties. Because of this, Oswald and his team speculate that VSC odor molecules could also have some powerful medicinal properties.

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