September 27, 2023

What are Terpenes? A Guide to the Aromatic Compounds of Cannabis

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As the popularity of cannabis continues to grow, so does our understanding of its intrinsic properties. The THC level, effects, and type (Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid) of a particular strain have all become popular factors used in the buying process. For example, one connoisseur might choose Grand Daddy Purple for its rich berry aroma and relaxing effects, whereas another might choose Blue Dream for a more elevating, citrusy experience.

But where does this variation come from, to begin with? As it turns out, the unique characteristics of a cannabis strain are all directly related to its terpenes.

Terpenes, also known as terps, are the compounds responsible for the smell of various herbs and plants (including cannabis). They even play a role in how cannabinoids like THC affect you. And though cannabis is usually associated with a piney, skunky aroma, there are subtler scents indicative of more terpenes than you realize.

But let’s answer the most basic question first...

What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are organic molecules responsible for the distinct scents, tastes, and even effects associated with different strains. Although they are particularly abundant in cannabis, these powerful compounds can also be found in other plants, fruits, and herbs. They are the main bioactive compounds of essential oils and have been the subject of recent scientific investigation into their potential applications.

Terpenes are particularly concentrated in the glandular trichomes of hemp. If you've ever seen a cannabis plant up close, you can identify trichomes by their appearance- small, clear appendages growing out of the plant.

Generally, terpenes explain why the aromas of certain strains seem somewhat familiar, even for first-time users. For instance, if you notice the faint scent of lemons when smoking, limonene is likely to blame. This terpene is the second most prevalent in cannabis but is also found in the peels of common citrus fruits.

Since they affect the smell of cannabis, terpenes also affect its taste. Terpene-rich cannabis concentrates like live resin and live rosin, therefore, typically enhance edibles or vapes with a unique flavor.

How Terpenes Affect Your Experience

The role of terpenes extends beyond merely determining a plant's taste and smell. Although non-psychoactive, they do impact your overall experience by influencing how cannabinoids like CBD and THC interact with one another. This synergy, referred to as The Entourage Effect, may be enhanced or modified by a strain's unique combination of terpenes. In fact, ground-breaking research published in a 2021 issue of Scientific Reports found that terpenes "mimic the effects of cannabinoids, including a reduction in pain sensation. When combined with cannabinoids, the pain-relieving effects were amplified without an increase in negative side effects."

This modulation of cannabinoids explains why strains with high myrcene content (usually Indicas) tend to induce more pronounced relaxation, while those high in limonene (Sativas) are likely to increase one's sense of alertness. On that note- the composition of terpenes (also called a terpene profile) is known as a "phenotypic trait" of cannabis strains. It's essentially what differentiates one strain from another, as research has shown that on a genome-wide scale, cannabis samples labeled "indica" or "sativa" were genetically indistinct aside from their terpene profile.

Consequently, understanding and isolating these compounds has become crucial in developing cannabis-based products (like cannabis-derived terpenes, or CDTs) and research. Individuals may use this knowledge to select the best strain for consumption, like a sommelier determining which wine best complements a meal.

However, it's crucial to keep the idea of individual sensitivity front of mind. People may respond to terpenes differently, resulting in varying experiences even when consuming the same strain. For example, an Indica will typically produce a heavier body high than a Sativa, but it's possible that will not be the case for you. The purported effects of any strain should be taken more as a guideline rather than a guarantee.

Some of the Most Common Terpenes

According to a growing body of scientific research, there have been "more than 150 different terpenes... identified in the resin of different cannabis types." You're likely to encounter more than a few of these if you're experimenting with different strains, so what should you expect?

We've compiled a list of the most common cannabis terpenes, their associated aroma, potential benefits, and what strains you can find them in.

Limonene

Known for its citrus notes, limonene causes the bright scent we associate with lemons and oranges. It's sometimes used as a food flavoring, and is even infused into lemon-scented household cleaning products! It is perhaps the most extensively studied of all the terpenes, and research suggests it can offer various benefits such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Among cannabis enthusiasts, limonene is said to have mood-lifting properties. It can be commonly found in Sativa-forward strains like Blue Dream.

Myrcene

Myrcene has a musky, earthy aroma and is fairly common. It's one of the most "potent aromatic flavour components" of hops and mangoes and is even a common food additive for its pleasant taste.

It is associated with relaxing and sedative effects and is often found in Indica strains. When found in a Sativa, it can work synergistically to create an uplifting but calming effect. Myrcene is also believed to help cannabinoids such as THC and CBD cross the blood-brain barrier faster.

Pinene

In a literal sense, it has a pine-like fragrance and is also found in pine trees, rosemary, and sage. It may have anti-inflammatory and alertness properties and comes in two forms – alpha-pinene and beta-pinene.

Linalool

Linalool has a floral and lavender-like scent with a little spice. Outside of cannabis, this terpene is found in lavender, sweet basil, bergamot, and eucalyptus. It is believed to have many therapeutic benefits, but human studies have shown promise for anti-depressant and anti-anxiety treatments using lavender oil, which has high concentrations of linalool. This is a dominant terpene in strains like Lavender Kush.

Caryophyllene

Known for giving black pepper its signature kick, Caryophyllene has a spicy and peppery aroma. It's also found in rosemary, cloves, and hops.

This terpene is so fascinating because it can bind to CB2 cannabinoid receptors, which help immune function and inflammation. Caryophyllene dominates strains like Sour Diesel, Bubba Kush, & Gelato.

Terpinolene

Terpinolene exhibits a fresh, woody, and herbal profile that's very "foresty" on the nose. It’s found in a variety of plants like sage, nutmeg, cumin, and rosemary.

Its effects are not as well understood due to the minor role it plays in most cannabis strains, but it is found in strains like Jack Herer and Golden Pineapple.

Humulene

Humulene also has an earthy, woody scent and boasts potential appetite-suppressant properties. Outside of cannabis, you can find this terpene in hops, which gives beer the distinct taste you're probably familiar with. While it rarely shows up as the most dominant terpene, Humelene can be found in White Rhino, Death Star, and Thin Mint GSC.

Terpene Chart

Here is a summary of the most common terpenes you'll come across, whether in cannabis or your favorite fruits.

Terpene	Scientific Name	Common Cannabis Strains	Also Found In	Primary Aromas	Potential Benefits*
Myrcene	β-Myrcene	Blue Dream, OG Kush	Mango, thyme, lemongrass	Earthy, musky, clove-like	Relaxation, sedation, anti-inflammatory
Limonene	D-limonene	Wedding Cake, Do-Si-Dos	Citrus rinds (lemon, orange), juniper	Bright citrus, lemon	Elevated mood, anti-anxiety, antifungal
Caryophyllene	β-Caryophyllene	GSC (Girl Scout Cookies), Bubba Kush	Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon	Spicy, woody, peppery	Pain relief, anti-inflammatory, gut-protective
Pinene	α-Pinene, β-Pinene	Jack Herer, Strawberry Cough	Pine needles, rosemary, basil	Pine, fresh forest, herbal	Alertness, bronchodilation, anti-inflammatory
Linalool	Linalool	Lavender Kush, LA Confidential	Lavender, coriander, rosewood	Floral, sweet, lavender	Calming, anti-anxiety, anticonvulsant
Humulene	α-Humulene	Skywalker OG, Headband	Hops, basil, clove	Woody, earthy, herbal	Appetite suppressant, anti-inflammatory
Terpinolene	Terpinolene	Jack Herer, Ghost Train Haze	Apples, tea tree, lilacs	Fruity, piney, floral	Antioxidant, sedative, antibacterial
Ocimene	α-Ocimene, β-Ocimene	Clementine, Amnesia	Mint, parsley, orchids	Sweet, herbal, citrusy	Antiviral, antifungal, decongestant
Bisabolol	α-Bisabolol	Harle-Tsu, ACDC	Chamomile, candeia tree	Floral, sweet, chamomile-like	Skin soothing, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory
Geraniol	Geraniol	Master Kush, Afghani	Geraniums, lemongrass, roses	Floral, fruity, rose-like	Antioxidant, neuroprotective, antimicrobial

Terpenes: Small, but Mighty

Thousands of terpenes are found in nature, but those covered here are some of the most common relative to the world of cannabis. We hope this information helped add to your appreciation of these compounds.

At Hometown Hero, our growing selection of Live Rosin edibles and Live Resin vapes are infused with terpene-rich concentrates so that you can experience the authentic essence of your favorite strains in every bite and every puff. Our specially formulated blends guarantee a synergy of hemp-derived cannabinoids and aromatic terpenes to promote the entourage effect.

So, the next time you select a strain, remember to think about those little molecules working together to add depth, character, and complexity to your experience. It's not just about the THC or CBD content; it is the terpenes you can thank for enriching your session!

FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.