Understanding Terpenes

Maddie O'Neill

Jun 14 2024

If you’re new to the world of Cannabis, understanding terpenes might feel incredibly overwhelming. But fear not, we will break it down for you! In the most basic terms, terpenes are flavonoids.

These highly aromatic oils produce a certain flavor or experience associated with a p articular strain. Although more research is needed to help understand the scope of their therapeutic effects, these organic compounds could potentially offer much more than just taste and aroma. Over 100 terpenes have been identified in cannabis plants, but let’s start with the most common and some identifying characteristics of each.

1. Myrcene

This is the most common type of flavonoid. Also found in Mango’s, Thyme, Lemongrass, & Eucalyptus. Expect an earthy, herbal & musky smell! This terpene is present in all lineages but is dominant in Indica strains as it tends to produce a drowsy effect.

Myrcene

2. Limonene

Also found in lemon rinds, orange rinds juniper & rosemary. Expect a floral, fresh and zesty scent! This terpene is said to have uplifting effects as it is rumored to elevate your mood and reduce anxiety.

Limonene

3. Alpha-Pinene

The most common terpene in nature! Also found in pine needles, basil, parsley & orange peel. Expect a fresh pine scent. This terpene is said to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It is not the most common in cannabis plants but is easily the most identifiable due to its strong scent.

Alpha-Pinene

4. Caryophyllene

Also found in black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, oregano and rosemary. Expect a woody & spicy scent due to the cloves and cinnamon notes. This terpene is said to reduce inflammation and relieve pain by influencing the endocannabinoid system. Mostly found in sativa strains.

Caryophyllene

5. Terpinolene

This tends to be the leading terpene in citrus dominant strains. Also found in lilacs, tea tree, nutmeg, cumin & apples. Expect a citrus, piney and strong floral scent. This terpene is said to have anti-cancerous, anti-fungal and relaxing properties. Most commonly found in sativa dominant strains.

Terpinolene

6. Linalool

When you think of linalool, think of lavender. Also found in lavender, birch bark, coriander and sweet basil. Expect a floral, mild & spicy smell. This terpene is said to have stress relieving and sleep enhancing properties. It is also rumored to be a great anti-fungal.

Linalool

7. Humulene

Also found in hops, sage, ginger, basil and clove. Expect a woody and earthy scent. This terpene is said to have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effects making it great for wound healing.

Humulene

8. Eucalyptol

Also found in eucalyptus, tea tree, sweet basil, mugwort and bay leaves. Expect a minty and spicy cool scent. This terpene is said to be beneficial for clearing the sinuses and relaxing the muscles. This makes it especially beneficial for those struggling with asthma.

Eucalyptol

9. Alpha-bisabolol

Also found in chamomile tea, sage and Candeia tree. Expect a sweet, floral and nutty scent. This terpene is said to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. It is also a active in chamomile, contributing to its relaxing effect.

Alpha-bisabolol

10. Camphene

Also found in Nutmeg, Basil and Citronella. Expect an earthy, musky herbal scent. This terpene is said to have anti-inflammatory properties and could potentially be used to lower cholesterol.

Camphene

References:

CannaCon. (2023, April 27). 15 cannabis terpenes explained: The magic of cannabis. https://cannacon.org/15-terpenes-cannabis-explained/

YouTube. (2023, March 16). Terpenes: The key to medical marijuana - March 15, 2023. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqps-IB3PQ8

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