Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned herb connoisseur, you’re probably wondering how you can possibly make sense of the terpene profiles that you see at your local dispensary. Traditional herbs and essential oils used in folk healing create their effects largely due to terpenes. The crystal-like trichomes of cannabis plants contain terpenes along with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Together, cannabinoids and terpenes stimulate receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) in what is called the entourage effect.
Besides possessing therapeutic potentials, terpenes are responsible for the fragrance and taste of flowers and other plants, including cannabis. Not unlike the language used for wines, cannabis lovers mention words like earthy, sweet, woody, even skunk, to refer to the smell and flavor of cannabis. Let’s take a look at six terpenes that every cannabis beginner should know.
1. Myrcene
Have you heard that you can make your THC buzz stronger if you eat a mango 40 minutes before lighting up? This effect is due to myrcene, which allows THC to pass the blood-brain barrier more easily. Indica-dominant strains like Kush and White Widow contain high concentrations of myrcene. Indicas are usually credited with creating the fabled “couch-lock” effect. Consumers seek high-myrcene strains to help with pain relief, insomnia, and general relaxation. Scientists are studying myrcene for its potential to block hepatic carcinogens and as a possible treatment for diabetes.
Terpene Characteristics
- Smell– Musky, Earthy, hints of Spice, Fruit
- Potential Benefits– sedative, muscle-relaxant, anti-inflammatory, pain-relief, stress-relief
- Plants– mangoes, hops, ylang-ylang, thyme, bay leaves, lemongrass
- Strains– pure Kush, Jack Herer, Sweet Skunk, White-Widow, Himalayan Gold, Agent Orange
2. Limonene
A common addition to household cleaners, limonene has a refreshing lemon scent. Plants like citrus fruits, rosemary, and juniper develop limonene to repel harmful insects. Manufacturers often add limonene to topical preparations for its ability to help other terpenes absorb into the skin. Limonene is thought to have a mood-lifting effect. High-limonene CBD strains are becoming popular among consumers looking to promote feelings of happiness and boost concentration. Physicians in the medical cannabis community prescribe high-limonene strains for infections, mood disorders, acid reflux, and acne. Preliminary research suggests that limonene may have the ability to help shrink cancer cells.
Terpene Characteristics
- Smell– Lemon, Citrus
- Potential Benefits– stimulate immune system, apoptosis of cancer cells, anti-bacterial, antacid
- Plants– Citrus fruits and rinds, peppermint, rosemary, juniper
- Strains– Super Lemon Haze, Pineapple, Jack Herer, Citrus Kush, Super Silver Haze, Tangerine Dream, Girl Scout Cookie, Pre-98 Bubba Kush
3. Linalool
Up to 80% of commercial scented products contain linalool. This terpene emits pleasant floral fragrances with hints of sweet citrus. Found in high concentrations in lavender plants, linalool imparts a sense of relaxation and calm. Many members of the medical cannabis community employ strains with high linalool content for the treatment of stress, inflamed skin, and insomnia. Some studies suggest that linolool may enhance cognitive function and serve as a local anesthetic. Researchers are also studying linalool for possible use in epilepsy and cancer treatments.
Terpene Characteristics
- Smell– Floral, Spicy, Sweet, Citrus, Rosewood
- Potential Benefits– local anaesthetic, sedative, antibacterial, anti-carcinogenic, antidepressant
- Plants– lavender, coriander, mint, cinnamon, basil, rosewood, birch, bay laurel
- Strains– Amnesia Haze, Bubble Gum, OG Shark, Sour Diesel, Locomotion, 9 lb Hammer
4. Pinene
Most of us recall the refreshing fragrance of fresh mountain air or a freshly cut Christmas tree. That’s Pinene, the most common terpene in the natural world. For thousands of years, herbal healers have used pinene-containing plants like rosemary to improve mental focus. Scientific research attributes this phenomenon to the ability of pinene to stimulate the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Additionally, pinene is a strong anti-microbial agent that has been shown to kill pathogens like Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus. Pinene has the opposite effect of myrcene and can lessen the effects of THC.
Terpene Characteristics
- Smell– Pine, Woody
- Potential Benefits– Bronchiodialator, antimicrobial, aids memory
- Plants– Pine, rosemary, parsley, basil, dill, pineapples, orange peels
- Strains– Jack Herer, Blue Dream, Lavender, Dutch Treat, Vanilla Kush, Cookie Cross
5. Beta-Caryophyllene
Beta-caryophyllene acts much like a cannabinoid. This terpene can directly affect the CB-2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. Because of this ability, beta-caryophyllene shows promise in the treatment of various medical conditions, including arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and gastrointestinal disorders. Studies have shown that beta-caryophyllene is a potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and a potential anti-depressant. Cannabis strains containing high amounts of beta-caryophyllene are sought after for their uplifting and pain-relieving effects. Historically, drug-sniffing dogs detect the smell of beta-caryophyllene to find marijuana.
Terpene Characteristics
- Smell– Peppery, Spicy, Sweet, and Woody
- Potential Benefits– Antioxidant, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory
- Plants– black pepper, rosemary, cloves, basil, hops, cinnamon, oregano
- Strains– Skywalker OG, Tangerine Dream, Jack Herer, Pineapple Express
6. Terpinolene
A common ingredient in soaps and perfumes, terpinolene imparts a unique fragrance that combines woody notes with floral and citrus. This terpene is a potent antifungal and antibiotic. Researchers are conducting studies to clarify terpinolene’s potential to aid with the treatment of cancer, heart issues, and malaria. High-terpinolene cannabis strains impart relaxing and calming effects. Medical cannabis physicians often prescribe strains with this terpene for patients with insomnia and anxiety.
Terpene Characteristics
- Smell– Woody, Clove, Pine, Floral, Citrus
- Potential Benefits– antimicrobial, anti-malarial, sedative, anxiolytic, anti-tumor
- Plants– lilacs, pine trees, lime flowers, apples, tea tree, nutmeg, eucalyptus sap
- Strains– Sour Tsunami, Girl Scout Cookie, Sensei Star, OG Kush, Sour Tangie, White Widow
Keep in mind that high temperatures can destroy terpenes. For maximum benefits and flavor, we suggest that you vape cannabis flowers at low temperatures. Your local or online dispensary can help you choose a dry-herb vaporizer and a cannabis strain that suits your needs.
Written by: Cat Winske