What are terpenes?

Terpenes are a class of organic compounds that are the main building blocks of essential oils in many plants. They give plants their unique aromas and flavors and have various biological effects and have potential therapeutic agents for various medical conditions. Cannabis terpenes are the fragrant oils found in the flowers of the cannabis plant that contribute to the unique aroma and flavor as well as the effects that different strains of cannabis have on the body and mind. Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant and different strains can have varying levels of these terpenes, resulting in variations in aroma, flavor and effects. Some common cannabis terpenes include myrcene, caryophyllene, limonene, pinene, linalool, humulene and terpinolene.

No. 01 — Myrcene

Myrcene is a terpene commonly found in the essential oils of many plants, including hops, cloves, thyme and mangoes, as well as in some strains of cannabis. It has a musky, earthy aroma and is known for its sedative and relaxing effects. Myrcene is thought to play a role in enhancing the effects of other cannabinoids, such as THC, by facilitating their entry into the brain through the blood-brain barrier. It is also being studied for its potential anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties.

No. 02 — Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is a terpene commonly found in spices such as black pepper, cinnamon, rosemary and cloves, as well as in some strains of cannabis. It has a spicy, woody aroma and is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Caryophyllene is unique among terpenes in that it can interact with the endocannabinoid system, specifically with CB2 receptors, making it a potential therapeutic agent for a range of medical conditions, including anxiety, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases.

No. 03 — Limonene

Limonene is a terpene commonly found in citrus fruits, such as lemons and oranges, as well as in some strains of cannabis. It has a strong, citrusy aroma and flavor, and is known for its energizing and stress-relieving effects. Limonene has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, as well as its ability to promote healthy digestion. It is also being investigated for its potential use in the treatment of anxiety and depression.

No. 04 — Pinene

Pinene is a terpene commonly found in pine trees and herbs such as parsley, basil and dill, as well as in some strains of cannabis. It has a fresh, piney aroma and is known for its effects on alertness, memory and respiratory function. Pinene is being studied for its potential therapeutic properties, including as a bronchodilator for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and for its potential to counteract the short-term memory impairment caused by THC. It is also being investigated for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

No. 05 — Linalool

Linalool is a terpene commonly found in lavender, cinnamon, basil and birch, as well as in some strains of cannabis. It has a sweet, floral aroma with a hint of spice and is known for its stress-relieving and relaxing effects. Linalool is being studied for its potential therapeutic properties, including as an anxiolytic for the treatment of anxiety and depression, as an anti-inflammatory and as a pain reliever. It is also being investigated for its potential as a neuroprotectant and for its role in promoting healthy sleep.

No. 06 — Humulene

Humulene is a terpene commonly found in hops, ginger, cloves and sage, as well as some strains of cannabis. It has a earthy, woody aroma with hints of spice and is known for its anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressing effects. Humulene has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties, including as an anti-inflammatory and as a possible treatment for conditions such as cancer and autoimmune diseases. It is also being investigated for its antibacterial and antiviral properties.

No. 07 — Terpinolene

Terpinolene is a terpene commonly found in many plants, including conifers, apples, lilac and nutmeg, as well as some strains of cannabis. It has a fresh, herbal aroma with hints of citrus and is known for its uplifting and relaxing effects. Terpinolene is being studied for its potential therapeutic properties, including as a sedative, antifungal and antioxidant. It is also being investigated for its ability to promote healthy sleep and for its potential as a natural insecticide.

No. 01 — Myrcene
No. 02 — Caryophyllene
No. 03 — Limonene
No. 04 — Pinene
No. 05 — Linalool
No. 06 — Humulene
No. 07 — Terpinolene

A Guide To Terpenes

Learn more about cannabis terpenes and their unique therapeutic properties.
No. 01 — Myrcene
Myrcene is a terpene commonly found in the essential oils of many plants, including hops, cloves,...
No. 02 — Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is a terpene commonly found in spices such as black pepper, cinnamon, rosemary and...
No. 03 — Limonene
Limonene is a terpene commonly found in citrus fruits, such as lemons and oranges, as...