What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are fragrant oils found in many types of plants, they are abundant in tree resin and are the main ingredient of essential oils. The chemical compounds they secrete give fruits, vegetables, flowers and herbs their signature scents. Terpenes are commonly used in food, cosmetics, and the pharmaceutical industry, in fact, there are over 100 identified terpenes. Many of these are unique to the Cannabis plant, they are secreted in the same glands that produce cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Terpenes are what give different Cannabis strains their distinctive scent such as citrus, berry, mint, or pine. Every Cannabis strain tends toward a unique terpene type and composition. In general, marijuana flowers contains around 20-30% cannabinoids and less than 2% terpenes. However, improved breeding techniques and technological advances mean that some strains can have up to 7% terpenes.
 

Why are Terpenes Important?

We all have individual preferences for smells and tastes, so knowing the terpene profile of a cannabis product can help you choose one with a scent and flavour profile you would likely enjoy the most. In addition, some terpenes might promote relaxation and stress-relief, while others potentially promote focus and acuity. For instance, Linalool, a common terpene found in lavender, may be associated with relaxation, while Terpinolene is commonly found in uplifting, active strains like Jack Herer and Ghost Train Haze. The effect profile of any given terpene may change in the presence of other compounds in a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect”. In other words, it’s very possible that cannabinoids and terpenes work together in the overall effect of Cannabis, although more research is needed to understand each terpene’s effect when used in harmony with others. As of now, these are just theories- the impact of terpenes beyond flavour and aroma has yet to be scientifically proven. It is also important to note that each terpene has its own boiling point, that’s especially useful when using a variable temperature vaporizer.
 

Most Common Terpenes in Found in Cannabis

Myrcene

• Myrcene is found in large concentrations in the cannabis plant. It exudes a musky herbal aroma.
• Effects: quickens the effects of cannabinoids, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antioxidant, relaxing
• Other sources: wild thyme, hops, lemon grass, mango, cardamom

Limonene

• As you’d expect from its name, limonene is a terpene with a characteristic citrusy aroma. It is often found in fruit rinds and a wide array of citrus fruits.
• Effects: uplifting, relaxing, antifungal, antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
• Other sources: citrus fruits, rosemary, coniferous trees

Caryophyllene

• Caryophyllene is the only terpene that acts as a cannabinoid. It binds to the brain’s receptors and acts as an antioxidant. It has a spicy and peppery aroma.
• Effects: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, relaxing, antidepressant, analgesic, neuroprotective
• Other sources: black pepper, cloves, rosemary, hops

Terpinolene

• Terpinolene is widely used in perfumery due to its complex piney herbal scent.
• Effects: uplifting, anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, antioxidant, sedative
• Other sources: allspice, parsnip, apples, cumin, sage, rosemary.

Pinene

• Pinene is the most abundant terpene in nature. It has a characteristic piney aroma and can be found in a wide variety of plants.
• Effects: anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antianxiety, antimicrobial
• Other sources: pine, coniferous tree resin, citrus fruits, basil, parsley

Humulene

• Humulene’s characteristic herbal scent is behind the hoppy aroma of beer.
• Effects: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, appetite suppressor
• Other sources: hops, coriander, basil

Linalool

• Linalool is the main terpene in lavender and comes with a strong, floral aroma.
• Effects: relaxing, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, sedative
• Other sources: lavender, mint, cinnamon

Other Terpenes in Found in Cannabis

• BORNEOL – Scents: Menthol, Camphor, Rich Earth – Found in: Wormwood, Cinnamon
• CEDRENE – Scents: Cedar, Amber, Sandalwood, Patchouli – Found in: Cedar
• CARENE – Scents: Earth, Pine, Forest Scents, Citrus – Found in: Bell Pepper, Pine, Citrus Fruits
• SABINENE – Scents: Wood, Pepper, Spices – Found in: Oak, Tea Tree Oil, Black Pepper, Carrot Seed
• TERPINEOL – Scents: Florals, Lilac, Lime, Cardamom, Clove – Found in: Cypress, Juniper Berries, Cardamom, Marjoram, Thyme
• GERANIOL – Scents: Geranium, Rose, Citronella, Stone Fruits – Found in: Geraniums, Tobacco, Lemons
• OCIMENE – Scents: Flowers, Fruit, Herbs – Found in: Mint, Parsley, Pepper, Basil, Mango, Orchids
• NEROLIDOL – Scents: Wood, Bark, Flowers, Apples – Found in: Citronella, Ginger, Orange Peel
• EUCALYPTOL – Scents: Eucalyptus, Mint, Spice – Found in: Eucalyptus
• PHELLANDRENE – Scents: Citrus, Mint, Herbs, Pepper – Found in: Eucalyptus, Pine, Parsley, Dill, Mint, Lavender
• ISOPULEGOL – Scents: Sweet Mint, Eucalyptus – Found in: Eucalyptus, Lemongrass, Geranium
• NEROL – Scents: Bitter, Citrus, Rose – Found in: Cumin, Lilac, Apple, Tea Tree, Conifers
• CITRONELLOL – Scents: Floral, Sweet Citrus, Rose – Found in: Roses, Geraniums, Lemon Grass
• BISABOLOL – Scents: Fresh Flowers – Found in: Chamomile
• VALENCENE – Scents: Oranges, Tangerines or Grapefruit – Found in: Citrus fruits, Valencia oranges
• FENCHOL – Scents: Camphor, Pine, Lemon – Found in: Basil
• PHYTOL – Scents: Green Tea, Light Florals, Jasmine, Balsam – Found in: Green tea
• PULEGONE – Scents: Mint, Camphor – Found in: Peppermint, Catnip, Pennyroyal