Terpenes Explained: Why Cannabis Smells and Effects Matter

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that make cannabis smell and influence its effects. They're the secret to finding your perfect strain.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are organic compounds found in many plants, not just cannabis. They're responsible for the distinct smells of lavender, pine trees, citrus fruits, and cannabis strains.

Common Cannabis Terpenes

Myrcene

• Aroma: Earthy, musky, herbal
• Effects: Sedating, relaxing, pain relief
• Also found in: Mangoes, hops, thyme
• Best for: Sleep, pain, relaxation

Limonene

• Aroma: Citrus, lemon
• Effects: Uplifting, stress relief, mood enhancement
• Also found in: Lemons, oranges
• Best for: Depression, anxiety, energy

Pinene

• Aroma: Pine, fresh, sharp
• Effects: Alertness, memory retention, anti-inflammatory
• Also found in: Pine needles, rosemary
• Best for: Focus, asthma, memory

Linalool

• Aroma: Floral, lavender
• Effects: Calming, anti-anxiety, sedating
• Also found in: Lavender
• Best for: Anxiety, sleep, stress

Caryophyllene

• Aroma: Spicy, peppery
• Effects: Pain relief, anti-inflammatory
• Also found in: Black pepper, cloves
• Best for: Pain, inflammation

Humulene

• Aroma: Earthy, woody
• Effects: Appetite suppressant, anti-inflammatory
• Also found in: Hops, sage
• Best for: Weight loss, inflammation

Why Terpenes Matter More Than THC Percentage

A 15% THC strain with great terpenes often provides better effects than a 25% THC strain with poor terpene profile. Here's why:

• Terpenes influence how cannabinoids work (entourage effect)
• They determine subjective experience
• They provide therapeutic benefits independently
• They create strain-specific effects

How to Use Terpene Information

1. Ask your budtender for the terpene profile
2. Smell the flower before purchasing
3. Note which terpenes work best for you
4. Look for high terpene percentages (2-3%+)
5. Match terpenes to your desired effects

Preserving Terpenes

• Store in airtight containers
• Keep in cool, dark places
• Don't over-dry your flower
• Use humidity packs (62% RH)
• Consume within 6 months of harvest
• Vaporize at lower temperatures (350-400°F)