Familiarize Yourself with 7 Common Terpenes Found in Cannabis

Terpenes are organic compounds that give off odor and produce a taste, excreted by a large population of plants - not just cannabis. These terpenes come in the form of pungent oils that give plants their distinct aroma, flavor, and even color. 

If you've recently visited a dispensary and grabbed a product or two, you may have noticed that labels are beginning to list the product's terpene profile. This can help consumers pinpoint which strains and concentrates they prefer in regards to taste, smell, and even effect so long as you're familiar with the basics of terpenes.

 Discover More: List of the Major Fragrances & Flavors Cannabis Produces

Here are some of the more common terpenes found in cannabis as well as many beauty products, cosmetics, and fragrances that you should familiarize yourself with in case you're curious about the chemistry of your product. Click on the terpene's name to watch a short video explaining its properties in more detail.

 

7 Common Terpenes in Cannabis & Their Properties

Myrcene
Myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis plants. It has a musky aroma with hints of fruit, similar to cloves. Medical effects include analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic. It blocks the actions of a number of carcinogens. It also has a sedative effect, providing a calming and relaxing feeling. When working synergistically with THC, myrcene increases its psychoactive impact.

Caryophyllene

 

Caryophyllene has a spicy, peppery aroma and has been shown to treat anxiety and depression along with reducing inflammation and pain. It's the only terpene known thus far that interacts with CB2 receptors throughout the body. 

 

Limonene
Limonene has a citrusy, fruity aroma and is commonly used in ointments and skin creams. It has been shown to promote weight loss and prevent and treat cancer. It's also used to treat bronchitis and even helps with depression.

Linalool

 

Linalool has a floral aroma with hint of spice. Linalool is found in cannabis but is common in a number of flowers and fungi, including mint and cinnamon. Linalool has anti-inflammatory properties, is anti-cancerous, and can help modulate motor movements.

 

Pinene
Alpha-Pinene and Beta-Pinene have a pine aroma - pine trees getting their odor from it. This terpene is known to have anti-inflammatory qualities.

Terpineol
Terpineol also has a pine, sometimes clove-like aroma bearing antioxidant and antibiotic properties.

Eucalyptol
Eucalyptol has a minty, spicy aroma. It is used in fragrances and as a cooking spice. It is commonly used in cough suppressants and mouthwash and is known to help open up airways.