From Fruity To Earthy: The Most Common Terpenes In Cannabis And What They Do

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are natural compounds produced by a variety of plants, including cannabis, and even some insects. These organic compounds are responsible for the aromatic qualities of plants. The pungent scent of pine trees, the zesty aroma of citrus fruits, and the fragrant smell of lavender all come from terpenes.

In cannabis, terpenes not only influence the flavor and smell but also contribute to the overall effects of the strain. They interact with cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) to create the "entourage effect," a phenomenon where the combined effects of all the compounds found in the cannabis plant work synergistically to enhance the therapeutic and psychoactive properties of the plant.

The Role Of Terpenes In Cannabis

While cannabinoids like THC and CBD get much of the spotlight for their psychoactive and medicinal properties, terpenes also play a significant role. They can influence the mood, energy level, and even the medicinal effects of cannabis.

For instance, some terpenes might promote relaxation and stress relief, while others could increase focus and alertness. In combination with cannabinoids, they contribute to the overall profile of a cannabis strain, which is why two strains with similar THC levels can produce very different effects.

Let's now explore the most common terpenes found in cannabis, along with their flavors, aromas, and how they can affect your experience.

The Most Common Terpenes In Cannabis

Myrcene

• Aroma: Earthy, musky, herbal, with hints of cloves and cardamom.

• Flavors: Musky, herbal, and somewhat fruity.

• Effects: Relaxing, sedative, calming.

• Found In: Mangoes, lemongrass, thyme, hops, basil.

Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in cannabis, and it is often associated with the more sedative effects of certain strains. It’s the terpene responsible for the "couch-lock" feeling that heavy indicas are known for, making it ideal for use in strains that are meant to help with relaxation, stress relief, or sleep.

Interestingly, myrcene is also found in high concentrations in mangoes, and many cannabis enthusiasts claim that eating a mango before consuming cannabis can intensify the high. This is due to the terpene’s ability to increase the permeability of the blood-brain barrier, allowing cannabinoids to have a stronger effect.

Limonene

• Aroma: Citrusy, zesty, sweet, with hints of lemon and orange.

• Flavors: Citrus fruits, tangy, sweet.

• Effects: Uplifting, energizing, mood-enhancing.

• Found In: Citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges.

Limonene is the second most common terpene found in cannabis and is well known for its uplifting and energizing effects. It’s often found in strains that promote focus, happiness, and an overall sense of well-being, making it a popular choice for daytime use. Limonene is also believed to have anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties, and it may even have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.

Many people report that cannabis strains high in limonene give them a mental boost, and the terpene's fresh, citrusy scent can elevate the mood before you even take a hit. It’s commonly found in sativa strains, which are known for their energizing effects.

Pinene

• Aroma: Pine, fresh, woody, earthy.

• Flavors: Pine needles, herbal, woody.

• Effects: Alertness, memory retention, anti-inflammatory.

• Found In: Pine trees, rosemary, basil, parsley, dill.

Pinene is the most common terpene in the world, as it is the primary terpene in pine trees and other conifers. In cannabis, pinene can be found in many strains and is known for its sharp, refreshing pine aroma. There are two types of pinene: alpha-pinene and beta-pinene, both of which are present in cannabis and offer slightly different effects.

Alpha-pinene is believed to improve memory and alertness, making it a great choice for those who want to stay sharp and focused while consuming cannabis. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for people with asthma or other respiratory issues.

Pinene is often associated with sativa strains, which are known for their cerebral effects, but it can be found in hybrids and indicas as well.

Linalool

• Aroma: Floral, lavender, sweet, slightly spicy.

• Flavors: Floral, lavender, sweet, spicy.

• Effects: Relaxing, calming, anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory.

• Found In: Lavender, mint, cinnamon, coriander.

Linalool is the terpene responsible for the calming, floral scent of lavender, and it is often associated with the relaxing effects of cannabis. Strains high in linalool are typically used for their anti-anxiety and stress-relieving properties, making them ideal for those who want to unwind or improve their mood.

In addition to its calming effects, linalool has been studied for its potential to reduce pain and inflammation. It is also thought to enhance the sedative properties of cannabis, which is why it's commonly found in indica strains that are meant to help with sleep.

Caryophyllene

• Aroma: Spicy, peppery, woody, earthy.

• Flavors: Pepper, cloves, spicy herbs, wood.

• Effects: Anti-inflammatory, pain relief, stress relief.

• Found In: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, hops, basil.

Caryophyllene is a unique terpene because it not only interacts with the body through the olfactory system (like most terpenes) but also directly binds to cannabinoid receptors, specifically the CB2 receptor, which is part of the body’s endocannabinoid system. This interaction makes caryophyllene a particularly interesting compound for pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.

Strains high in caryophyllene are often used for medicinal purposes, especially for those seeking relief from chronic pain, anxiety, or inflammation. This terpene is also believed to have potential therapeutic benefits for people with conditions such as arthritis or multiple sclerosis.

Humulene

• Aroma: Earthy, woody, herbal, spicy.

• Flavors: Earthy, slightly bitter, woody.

• Effects: Appetite suppressant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial.

• Found In: Hops, coriander, basil, cloves.

Humulene is a terpene commonly found in hops, and it contributes to the earthy, woody aromas of many cannabis strains. Unlike other terpenes, which are known to increase appetite (the "munchies"), humulene has been shown to suppress appetite, making it a potential choice for those who want to avoid overindulging while using cannabis.

Humulene also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a valuable terpene for those seeking therapeutic benefits from their cannabis. Its earthy, woody flavor complements many strains that are known for their grounding, calming effects.

Terpinolene

• Aroma: Sweet, floral, herbal, with hints of citrus and pine.

• Flavors: Sweet, floral, citrusy, piney.

• Effects: Uplifting, calming, antioxidants.

• Found In: Lilacs, nutmeg, cumin, tea tree oil, apples.

Terpinolene is a less common terpene in cannabis but is still present in several strains. It has a complex, multidimensional aroma that can be described as sweet, floral, and herbal with hints of citrus and pine. Its effects are typically uplifting and calming, making it a great choice for those who want a balanced high that isn’t too sedative or too energizing.

Terpinolene is also known for its antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which may contribute to the overall therapeutic effects of the strains that contain it.

Ocimene

• Aroma: Sweet, herbal, citrusy, woody.

• Flavors: Sweet, floral, herbal, with a hint of citrus.

• Effects: Uplifting, anti-inflammatory, antifungal.

• Found In: Mint, parsley, orchids, kumquats, mangoes.

Ocimene is known for its sweet, citrusy, and herbal aroma, and it is commonly found in sativa-dominant strains that are known for their uplifting effects. This terpene is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, making it potentially beneficial for therapeutic use.

In terms of effects, ocimene is generally considered to be energizing and uplifting, which makes it a good option for daytime use. Its sweet and refreshing aroma adds a pleasant dimension to the overall cannabis experience.

Valencene

• Aroma: Sweet, citrusy, tangy, with hints of orange and grapefruit.

• Flavors: Citrus fruits, tangy, sweet.

• Effects: Energizing, mood-enhancing, anti-inflammatory.

• Found In: Oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, and other citrus fruits.

Valencene is a terpene commonly found in citrus fruits, and its bright, tangy aroma makes it a favorite in cannabis strains with uplifting effects. Strains high in valencene are typically energizing and mood-enhancing, making them perfect for daytime use.

In addition to its energizing properties, valencene is believed to have anti-inflammatory and insect-repellent qualities, adding to its potential therapeutic benefits.

Geraniol

• Aroma: Floral, sweet, rose-like, fruity.

• Flavors: Floral, fruity, sweet.

• Effects: Calming, antioxidant, antibacterial.

• Found In: Roses, peaches, lemons, and other flowers and fruits.

Geraniol is a terpene known for its sweet, floral aroma that is reminiscent of roses. It’s often used in perfumes and cosmetics for its pleasant scent, but it also has therapeutic benefits. Geraniol is believed to have antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which may enhance the medicinal effects of cannabis.

Strains that contain geraniol tend to be calming and relaxing, making them a good choice for stress relief and unwinding at the end of the day.

Conclusion

Terpenes play a fundamental role in the cannabis experience, influencing everything from aroma and flavor to the effects you feel. By understanding the different terpenes and their properties, you can make more informed decisions when selecting strains that suit your needs. Whether you're looking for an energizing boost, a calming nightcap, or something in between, terpenes offer a roadmap to tailor your cannabis experience.

From the earthy myrcene to the bright and zesty limonene, each terpene brings something unique to the table. So, the next time you explore a new strain, take a moment to appreciate the terpenes that contribute to its distinctive characteristics—they’re doing a lot more than just making your weed smell good!