Terpene Spotlight: Discover the Top 5 Terpenes in Cannabis and What They Do

If you've ever wondered what makes your favorite strain smell so delicious, then you've come to the right place, because in this blog we are going to be covering everything you need to know about the unsung heroes of cannabis products: terpenes.

From the 5 most common terpenes found in cannabis and how they can enhance your experience to how to choose the right terpene for your needs, we’ve got you covered! 

So, follow along to uncover the secrets behind these essential elements of your favorite cannabis strains! But first things first, what are terpenes and how do they interact with our bodies? Let’s get into it.

What Are Terpenes?

Think of terpenes as the essential oils of the cannabis plant—sort of like the plant's personal perfume collection, given that they are responsible for the delightful scents you experience when you interact with cannabis. 

But terpenes aren’t just about making things smell nice. They also play a significant role in how cannabis affects you, given that different terpenes can influence your mood, relaxation levels, and even pain perception. 

So, while cannabinoids like THC and CBD are busy with their job of getting you high or providing relief, terpenes are working their own magic to tailor your experience, like the spice that adds depth to a dish. 

But, how is it possible for terpenes to influence our experience when consuming cannabis? Let’s take a closer look at how terpenes and cannabinoids work together to enhance cannabis products. 

The Entourage Effect: How Terpenes Work

The entourage effect is the idea that the various compounds in cannabis—particularly cannabinoids like THC and CBD and terpenes—work together synergistically to enhance the overall effects of the plant. 

Instead of each compound working in isolation, they combine their effects to create a more balanced and effective experience, meaning that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. 

This is sort of like an orchestra of different instruments coming together to play a symphony that just wouldn’t sound the same without the tuba or the piano. But what are the specific terpenes in cannabis, and how do each of them interact with our bodies? Let’s take a look.

The Top 5 Terpenes in Cannabis

When it comes to terpenes, there are a wide array to choose from, each with their own unique aroma, flavor, and effects on the body. So let’s take a look at the main five terpenes found in cannabis to determine which best suits your needs.

Myrcene

Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis and is often the go-to for creating that classic, earthy, musky aroma with a hint of clove. It’s the terpene responsible for the smell of hops, mangoes, and lemongrass, giving certain strains of cannabis their fragrance.

Furthermore, myrcene is known for its sedative and relaxing effects and is often associated with the "couch-lock" feeling that many people experience when consuming certain strains of cannabis. 

This is because it can enhance the effects of THC, making the overall experience more calming, which helps you ward off insomnia, treat anxiety or depression, and even alleviate pain given that it has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. 

Furthermore, if you have digestive problems, myrcene-rich cannabis strains can help you relax your digestive tract and improve your bowl movement, relieving the pain that comes with indigestion. 

This terpene’s relaxing and therapeutic properties make it a valuable component of many cannabis strains. So, if you’re looking to unwind after a long day, this terpene may just be what you’ve been looking for. 

Limonene

Limonene is a terpene that brings a burst of citrus freshness to cannabis. With its bright, zesty aroma reminiscent of lemons and oranges, it’s like adding a splash of sunshine to your cannabis experience, making it one of the most uplifting terpenes you can find.

Its aroma is crisp and tangy, much like the smell of freshly peeled lemons or oranges, which is known to instantly lift your spirits and add a vibrant note to your cannabis experience. But what can you experience when consuming this terpene? Let’s take a look:

• It may help to elevate your mood, making it a great choice for those who need a little extra cheer or a mental pick-me-up.
• It might promote a more relaxed state of mind, making it easier to handle daily pressures or unwind after a long day.
• Some research suggests that it could also aid in digestion and boost your overall immune function.

So, whether you’re looking for a little mental lift or a way to soothe your stress, limonene-rich strains might just be the ticket to a brighter, more relaxed state of mind. And if that doesn't sound like your match, let’s take a look at what pinene terpenes offer. 

Pinene

Pinene is a terpene that brings a refreshing, piney aroma to cannabis, reminiscent of a walk through a dense pine forest. Its clean, crisp scent is invigorating and distinct, much like the smell of pine needles after fresh rain.

Not only does it smell great, but it is also known to provide an array of benefits to those who consume it. So let’s take a look at the effects that pinene-rich strains have to offer, to determine if it fits your needs. 

• It may help counteract short-term memory impairment associated with THC, allowing for a clearer mental state and better focus.
• Its invigorating aroma and effects can help sharpen your focus and keep you more engaged and present in the moment.
• It may act as a bronchodilator, helping to open airways and improve breathing, which could be particularly beneficial for those with respiratory issues.

Overall, it can be both revitalizing and grounding, making it a great choice for those looking to enhance their mental clarity and overall well-being. So, whether you need a boost in memory or just want to feel more alert, pinene-rich strains may be the perfect remedy.

Linalool

Linalool is a terpene celebrated for its soothing floral aroma and calming effects. It is also widely recognized for its sweet, floral fragrance that is reminiscent of lavender, which often evokes a sense of calm and relaxation. 

This terpene adds a gentle, pleasant note to cannabis strains, making them more aromatic and inviting. But it also offers multiple effects that are calming and stress-relieving. So let’s take a look at what linalool can do for the body and mind: 

• It has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties, making it easier to relax and unwind. 
• It can help create a relaxing environment, making it easier to drift off into a peaceful slumber.
• It can help soothe tense muscles and promote a feeling of calm, making it ideal for unwinding after a long day.

So, if you're looking to ease stress or enhance your relaxation routine, linalool-rich strains may be the way to go. But if any of these options have impressed you so far, let’s take a look at what caryophyllene has to offer. 

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is a distinctive terpene known for its spicy, peppery aroma. If you've ever caught a whiff of black pepper or cloves, you’ve encountered caryophyllene’s signature scent. 

However, what sets caryophyllene apart from other terpenes is its unique ability to interact directly with cannabinoid receptors in the body, specifically the CB2 receptors, modulating the endocannabinoid system in a manner similar to cannabinoids themselves.

Due to this interaction with CB2 receptors, caryophyllene is believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it a valuable component for those seeking relief from chronic pain or inflammation.

Furthermore, some research suggests that it could be beneficial for managing conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory disorders, offering an alternative or complement to traditional pain management strategies.

Its unique interaction with cannabinoid receptors and its potential for pain relief make it a notable terpene for those seeking heightened therapeutic benefits. So, if you’re looking for a strain that combines a spicy aroma with possible pain-relieving effects, caryophyllene is the way to go.

Whether you're seeking relaxation with myrcene, a citrusy uplift from limonene, mental clarity from pinene, soothing calm with linalool, or pain relief through caryophyllene, there's a terpene out there to suit your needs. 

Exploring these natural compounds can help you find the perfect strain to match your desired effects, making your cannabis journey both personalized and enjoyable. So, let’s take a look at how to choose your strains based on their terpene contents. 

How to Choose Cannabis Based on Terpenes

Choosing the right cannabis strain can be a bit like picking a fine wine—there’s a lot to consider beyond just the basic effects. And terpene profiles play a crucial role in shaping your overall experience. So, let’s take a look at how to choose your strain based on the terpene content. 

Terpene	Effects
Myrcene	If you want to relax, unwind, or need help with sleep.
Limonene	If you want to boost your mood, stress relief, or a burst of cirtrusy energy.
Pinene	If you’re seeking improved focus, memory, or a refreshing piney aroma.
Linalool	If you wish to alleviate stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation.
Caryophyllene	If you want to relieve chronic pain, reduce anxiety, or a spicy, peppery kick.

The frist step to choosing the ideal cannabis strain for your needs, is to choose the effects you desire from the table above. Once you know what you want, take a look at its terpene profile by checking the third party lab reports to determine terpene concentrations.

However, everyone’s endocannabinoid system is unique, so experimenting with different strains can help you find what works best for you. Just start with small amounts and note how different terpene profiles affect you.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to ask budtenders or cannabis experts for recommendations based on your desired effects and terpene preferences, given that they can provide valuable insights and suggest strains that match your needs.

Conclusion

Understanding terpenes allows you to choose strains that better match your needs, whether you’re looking for relaxation, mood enhancement, or pain relief. By focusing on terpene profiles, you can tailor your cannabis experience for optimal results.

So, the next time you select a strain, consider its terpene profile to find one that suits your desired effects. Just remember to explore different options and consult with knowledgeable staff to enhance your cannabis journey. And happy smoking!