15 Terpenes in Cannabis Explained

There are more than 100 terpenes in a single cannabis flower, as we previously stated in our Terpene series. Here are some of the most well-known cannabis terpenes right now, many of which can be found in legal cannabis products in your region.

The scent of certain marijuana strains may make you smile and relax. Others can cause you to wrinkled your nose in disgust. The fragrance’s impact can be almost as narcotic as consuming the substance. Marijuana scents float through the air as you relax and enjoy your favorite strains’ head, body, and soul experiences. However, what gives cannabis its pungent aroma? Many chemicals in the marijuana plant give the plant its scent, flavor, and appearance. Cannabis growers utilize a variety of chemicals to create certain properties in marijuana plants that produce desired effects in users like yourself. Terpenes are one of the most important classes of compounds used by cultivators.

What are Cannabis Terpenes?

Terpenes, one of the most important components in essential oils, are generally extracted from plants, including teas, herbs, and, of course, cannabis. Terpenes can also be found in animals. Terpenes may be found in an animal’s egg yolk, fish scales, and feathers.

Terpenes, which are unique blends of molecules, give plants their scent, flavor, and appearance. Terpenes are also used by plants to defend themselves from predators or attract pollinators for fertilization.

We consider terpenes to be therapeutic and medicinal in nature. They may be found in herbs, teas, and essential oils that we use on a daily basis. Curcumin is one of two spices present. It has a long history of being used as a healing spice in Indian cuisine. Thyme is another spice that’s commonly used in our cooking. Therapeutically, it contains antibacterial and antifungal components that are both antibacterial and antifungal actions

Green, Rooibos, and Turmeric are some of the teas we consume for their restorative effects. The terpenes in these teas are effective anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and sedative components.

There are numerous different kinds of terpenes in marijuana. Cannabis terpenes are comparable to the THC and CBD-rich compounds known outside of marijuana. Marijuana terpenes, like the main chemicals, have a variety of therapeutic properties, including analgesic, anti-anxiety, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Myrcene

Myrcene is the most common terpene in cannabis, and it’s typically found in nature. In fact, one study revealed that myrcene makes up 65% of the total terpene profile in certain strains. Myrcene has an earthy and musky scent that smells similar to cloves. It also has a fruity, red grape-like fragrance.

The most abundant terpene in cannabis, myrcene has a calming effect and is typically found in indica strains. It’s been claimed that myrcene reduces inflammation and chronic pain, which is why it’s frequently given as a supplement during cancer therapy.

Skunk XL, CHERRY KUSH, White Widow, and Special Kush are all excellent strains for producing an indica-dominant buzz. A mango is a great addition to any marijuana party. Bonus hint: If you want to get really high on marijuana, eat a mango 45 minutes before lighting up.

Mango contains a high level of myrcene, so eating it before marijuana will improve the effectiveness of THC and enhance its absorption rate.

Limonene

The second most common terpene in all cannabis strains is limonene, although not all strains contain it.

Limonene, like its name implies, adds a citrusy smell to the strains. This is no surprise because all citrus fruits include high amounts of this chemical. Limonene is found in skincare and cleaning products.

Limonene is a chemical found in citrus fruits that has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress for therapeutic reasons. It was discovered to have antifungal and antibacterial qualities, as well as a role in decreasing tumor size, according to researchers.

“Lemon” or “sour” in the strain‘s name generally indicates a high amount of limonene. Strains with high amounts of limonene include O.G. Kush, Sour Diesel, Super Lemon Haze, Durban Poison, Jack Herer, and Jack the Ripper.

Linalool

Linalool is the most noticeable component in cannabis, with floral and spicy undertones. Linalool may be found in lavender, mint, cinnamon, and coriander. It’s worth noting that it has comparable sedative and relaxing effects to those aromatic plants.

Linalool has been used to treat everything from arthritis, sadness, seizures, sleeplessness, and even cancer. Amnesia Haze, Special Kush, Lavender, LA Confidential, and OG Shark are some well-known linalool strains.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is found in black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and herbs including oregano, basil, and rosemary. beta-Caryophyllene binds to CB2 receptors, making it a component of anti-inflammatory topicals and creams. Caryophyllene is the only terpene that binds to cannabinoid receptors.

Some studies have shown that caryophyllene has valuable abilities for alcohol abuse treatment, in addition to its pain and anxiety-reducing effects. Caryophyllene has been found to have some very intriguing characteristics when it comes to alcoholism rehabilitation in several research.

Researchers looked at mice and discovered that this terpene suppresses voluntary alcohol consumption. They even recommended caryophyllene to treat Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome.

Super Silver Haze, Skywalker, and Rock Star are strains that contain caryophyllene.

Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene

The two most common cannabis terpenes, pinene and limonene, have a woodsy pine scent. Pinene is also found in other plants, including rosemary, orange peels, basil, parsley, and cannabis.

Pinene terpenes, like many other cannabinoids present in cannabis, have an anti-inflammatory effect on humans. However, their main function is to enhance ventilation and respiratory functions while also assisting with THC-related memory loss. This may seem strange because we’re talking about weed, but if the strain is high in alpha and beta pinene, it might assist with asthma.

Pinene has been shown to be effective in the treatment of arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and cancer. Pinene can be found in strains such as Jack Herer, Strawberry Cough, Blue Dream, Island Sweet Skunk, Dutch Treat, and Romulan.

Alpha-bisabolol

Alpha-bisabolol (also known as levomenol and bisabolol) is a flowery-fragrant compound derived from chamomile flowers and the candeia tree. This terpene has primarily been used in cosmetics, but it has recently drawn researchers’ attention because to its medical properties, especially in cannabis.

Alpha-bisabolol is a potent antibacterial that may be used to heal skin issues and sores. It’s an excellent antioxidant with anti-irritation and painkilling effects, and it’s found in strains like Harle-Tsu, Pink Kush, Headband, OG Shark, and ACDC.

Eucalyptol

Eucalyptol, also known as cineole, is a terpene found in the eucalyptus tree. It has distinctive minty and chilly notes in its fragrance but most cannabis strains lack significant quantities of it. Eucalyptol usually accounts for around 0.06 percent of the total terpene profile of a strain.

Eucalyptol, a chemical found in Eucalyptus oil, has been used in cosmetics and medicine. Eucalyptol is effective as a pain reliever but also inhibits the growth of germs and fungi.

Despite this, there is some evidence that suggests that this terpene may be beneficial to those with Alzheimer’s disease. Eucalyptol can be found in Super Silver Haze and Headband.

Trans-nerolido

This is a secondary terpene that is most often found in flowers such as jasmine, lemongrass, and tea tree oil. Trans-nerolidol has a fragrance that mixes rose, citrusy, and fruity notes together and can be described as woody, citrusy, and floral in general.

Trans-nerolidol is known for its antiparasitic, antioxidant, antifungal, cancer-fighting, and antibacterial qualities. Strains including Island Jack Herer, Sweet Skunk, and Skywalker OG are high in nerolidol.

Humulene

Humulene was the first terpene discovered in hops. It has earthy, woody, and spicy undertones.

It’s also found in clove, sage, and black pepper. It has a long history of usage as a medical treatment. Humulene has been shown to be anti-proliferative in early study, implying that it inhibits the growth of cancer cells. Furthermore, it was discovered to aid in weight reduction by suppressing hunger and being anti-inflammatory, anti-painful, and antibacterial.

Humulene can be found in strains like White Widow, Headband, Girl Scout Cookies, Sour Diesel, Pink Kush, and Skywalker OG.

Delta 3 Carene

Carene is a terpene contained in many plants, including rosemary, basil, peppers, cedar and pine. Its scent is sweet and has a resemblance to the scent of cypress trees. It appears to be especially beneficial in the treatment of fractured bones when it comes to medical carene. Patients suffering from osteoporosis, arthritis, or fibromyalgia might find comfort in this fact.

The terpene l-theanine, which is abundant in black tea and guarana, has cognitive enhancing properties. It also aids memory recall. This is an important aspect to consider while searching for a cure for Alzheimer’s disease.

Camphene

The fragrance of camphene is described as fir needles, earthy musk, and wet woodlands. Camphene has a distinct scent that is frequently mistaken with myrcene, the distinctive marijuana aroma that most people are familiar with. Camphene has significant medicinal potential from a medical standpoint. It’s an antioxidant when combined with vitamin C.

It is commonly used in conventional medicine as a topical for skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis.

Camphene has the ability to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, lowering the risk of heart disease even more. Ghost OG, Strawberry Banana, Mendocino Purps all contain camphene.

Borneol

Borneol is a mentholated oil obtained from the leaves of the mint plant, rosemary, and camphor.

Borneol, a terpene present in the wild flower isomer C22H42O2, is an effective natural insect repellent that protects against diseases like the West Nile virus, which is spread by ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes. Borneol has been found to be cytotoxic to breast cancer cells in one study. It’s also used in traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture. Strains high in borneol include Amnesia Haze, Golden Haze, and K13 Haze.

Terpineol

Terpineol has a floral, lilac-like scent that reminds one of lilies, apple blossom, and just a touch of citrus. Terpineol has an anise and mint flavor. Terpineol is often used in fragrances, cosmetics, and foods as a fragrance component.

It’s a potent relaxant that is responsible for the dreaded “couch lock” effect. Terpineol has antibiotic and antioxidant properties, as well as medical advantages. It’s found in Girl Scout Cookies, Jack Herer, and OG Kush strains.

Valencene

Sweet Valencia oranges are where this terpene got its name. It’s been identified in abundance in Valencianos. It’s also used as an insect repellant with its sweet citrusy scents and tastes. Strains like Tangie and Agent Orange include valencene.

Geraniol

Geraniol, like cannabis, is also present in lemons and cigarettes. Its scent is reminiscent of rose grass, peaches, and plums. It’s often included in fragrant bath products and body lotions. Geraniol has shown to have neuroprotective and antioxidant properties.

It can also be found in strains like Amnesia Haze, Great White Shark, Afghani, Headband, Island Sweet Skunk, OG Shark, and Master Kush.