There are over 100 different types of terpenes found in the cannabis plant. Terpenes are secreted in the same glands of the cannabis plant (trichomes) as cannabinoids. Terpenes are pungent oils that give cannabis strains distinctive smells such as pine, berry, and citrus. Choosing a cannabis strain based on its terpene content is the most reliable way of anticipating how it may affect you.
Terpenes also have therapeutic properties and can aid in plant’s medical effects. They interact with our endocannabinoid system and assist cannabinoids in entering the bloodstream, in a process called the entourage effect.
How the entourage effect works
When we inhale, eat, or drink products with terpenes in them, they interact with different receptors in our brains. The influence terpenes have on certain receptors can help us relax, feel energized, feel more positive, and more. If you’ve ever wondered why some cannabis strains help you relax while others energize you and help you feel creative, it’s because of their terpenes.
Enhancing your mood with terpenes
Anyone who’s used a lavender aromatherapy candle to help them relax has technically used terpenes to influence their mood. That’s because essential oils, which are the main ingredient in most aromatherapy products, are made with terpenes that omit various scents in the air to cause a pleasant reaction in your mind. Humans have been using this practice of aromatherapy for thousands of years to help enhance one’s physical and emotional health.
You may have a specific mood you are looking to achieve while consuming cannabis, such as boosting creativity, relaxing your mind and body, or achieving greater focus. There are various terpene profiles you can look for to achieve these effects when shopping for cannabis products.
How to shop for strains based on terpene profiles
When you shop for cannabis, one of the best first steps is to smell the flower and see how your body reacts to the scent. The nose knows in this scenario and you should listen intently to how your body feels. This is because terpenes are bioactive, meaning it causes a response in your body.
While cannabinoid profiles are an important part of picking a cannabis strain, it’s equally important to be aware of the strain’s terpene profile. Feeling effects when initially smelling the flower can help you choose strains with terpene profiles that are in-tune with what your body needs.
It’s important to note that even within specific strains, terpene profiles can vary due to growing and extraction processes.
Use this chart to become familiar with the properties and effects of the different terpenes.
| Terpene | Aroma | Also Found In | Common Effects | Potential Medical Benefits |
| Pinene | Pine | Pine needles, Rosemary, Basil, Parsley | Alertness, memory retention | Improve respiratory functions; asthma, antiseptic |
| Myrcene | Musky, Cloves, Tropical Fruit | Mangoes, Lemongrass, Thyme, Hops | Deeply relaxing | Antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, muscle relaxation, anti-inflammatory, pain relief |
| Limonene | Citrus | Fruit rinds, Juniper, Peppermint | Elevated mood, stress relief | Antidepressant, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, stimulates immune system, reduces acid reflux |
| Caryophyllene | Spicy, Peppery | Black pepper, Cloves, Cotton | Anti-inflammatory, gastrointestinal | |
| Linalool | Floral, Citrus | Lavender, Laurel | Relaxing, sedating | Anti-anxiety, combats stress, insomnia |
| Geraniol | Fruity, Citrus, Floral, Rosey | Lemons, Citronella | Uplifting, relaxing | Antioxidant, anti-fungal, appetite suppressant |
| Humulene | Hoppy, Woody, Earthy | Sage, Ginseng, Hops, Coriander | Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, appetite suppressant | |
| Ocimene | Floral, Woody, Sweet | Mango, Basil, Bergamot, Orchid | Uplifting | Anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antiviral |
| Terpinolene | Pine, Floral, Herbal | Nutmeg, Tea Tree, Apple, Cumin | Sedating | Antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-fungal |
Understanding terpenes can help you make an informed decision about products. We’re here to help and answer any questions you might have! Check out our online shop today!
Merry Jane’s Cannabis makes no claims regarding the health and medical benefits of cannabis.
