## 3 Strategies to Influence _C. sativa_ L. Aroma and Flavor Profiles  
The production and accumulation of aroma and flavor in _C. sativa_ L. are determined by an interplay of genetic, environmental, and post-harvest factors. By optimizing these variables, it is feasible to enhance the profiles of aroma and flavor compounds. This section examines various methods for influencing yield and profiles, ranging from genetic manipulation to post-harvest handling techniques. Genetics plays a foundational role in determining the terpene composition and concentration. Selective breeding programs aim to enhance terpene production by targeting key genes involved in terpene biosynthetic pathways, such as those governing the MVA and MEP pathways. These pathways lead to the synthesis of monoterpenes, sesquiterpen, and other terpene classes. Modern genetic tools, including CRISPR-Cas9 and RNA interference, have opened new avenues for precisely modifying cannabis genes [72; 75; 76]. By enhancing the expression of specific TPSs or suppressing competing pathways, breeders can amplify the production of desirable terpenes. Breeding in _C. sativa_ L. has evolved from unstructured selection in the illegal market to advanced genomic-driven programs. Early breeding efforts relied on uncontrolled hybridization without documented parentage, leading to diverse chemotypes with inconsistent traits [72]. Modern breeding integrates marker-assisted selection and genomic tools that are aimed at enhancing terpene and cannabinoid profiles while maintaining genetic stability [79]. These advancements can potentially enable precise cultivar development in the future, improving both commercial appeal and medicinal applications. Environmental conditions during cultivation also have a significant impact on terpene synthesis and accumulation. Adjustments in light, temperature, soil composition, and water availability can dramatically influence the terpene profile of cannabis plants. For instance, specific light wavelengths, particularly in the blue and ultraviolet (UV) ranges, have been shown to stimulate terpene production. In a recent review, researchers explored how light manipulation can enhance the production of cannabinoids and terpenes in _C. sativa_ L. by leveraging their role as photo-protectants. This study highlights that UV-B radiation increases trichome numbers and stimulates cannabinoid biosynthesis, while blue light enhances both terpene and specific cannabinoid accumulation. These findings underscore the potential of tailored light spectra, such as UV and blue-light-emitting diodes (LEDs), to optimize phytochemical yields during cultivation and post-harvest processes [77]. LED technology allows growers to precisely control the light quality and duration, enhancing the synthesis of specific terpenes. Nutrient optimization, including the balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and essential micronutrients, supports enzymatic activities related to terpene biosynthesis [80]. In a recent study, researchers found that high ammonium-to-nitrate (NH4/NO3) ratiosnegatively affect medical cannabis by reducing the yield, cannabinoids, and terpenes. This study highlights the importance of optimizing the nitrogen source for cannabis growth and phytochemical composition [81]. A recent study found that while high potassium (K) levels support cannabis growth, a K deficiency enhances cannabinoid and terpenen concentrations, highlighting the need to balance the K supply for an optimal yield and phytochemistry [82]. Irrigation management further contributes, as controlled water stress can mimic natural environmental conditions, triggering the plant's defense mechanisms and increasing terpene synthesis [83]. Elicitors, such as salicylic acid (SA), methyl jasmonate (MeJA), and ascorbic acid, significantly enhance the production of aromatic and bioactive compounds in _C. sativa_ L. Studies show that SA and MeJA upregulate key biosynthetic genes, leading to increased cannabinoid and terpene accumulation in inflorescences and leaves [84].