What are terpenes? 

Terpenes are the primary components of the essential oils in many plants, flowers and fruit. They are attributed to each cannabis strain’s unique scent, flavor and experience. Linalool, for example, is the terpene that exists in abundance in lavender creating a relaxing experience.

Terpenes are found naturally in high concentrations in the cannabis plant. Each cannabis strain has a distinct blend of terpenes that offers a unique experience that includes scent and flavour. Terpenes are strong contributors to the restfulness of some strains and the invigorating nature of others. Some terpenes assist in the uptake or bioavailability of the cannabinoids existing in the body.

What are some specific terpenes? 

Linalool:

• Associated with: sweet smell of wildflowers 
• Found in: Lavender, laurel birch, rosewood 
• Health Benefits: anti-anxiety, anti-epileptic and antidepressant
• Effects: calming, sedative, mood boosting
• Strains: Lavender, LA Confidential, Master Kush 

Terpineol:

• Associated with: lilac blossoms 
• Found in: Lilacs, lime, and eucalyptus sap 
• Health Benefits: antibiotic, anti inflammatory, antitumor 
• Effects: Sedative
• Strains: Jack Herer, Girl Scout Cookies, OG Kush 

Pinene:

• Associated with: classic cannabis pine aroma
• Found in: Pine, basil, parsley, dill 
• Health Benefits: anti-inflammatory,  improving memory, opens airways 
• Effects: alertness
• Strains: Pineapple Express, ACDC, Grape Ape, Snoops Dream 

Caryophyllene:

• Associated with: pepper 
• Found in: basil, oregano, pepper, and cinnamon
• Health Benefits: pain relief, anti-anxiety & anti-depressant 
• Effects: pain relief 
• Strains: Lavender, Candyland, Death Star 

Terpinolene:

• Associated with: lilac blossoms 
• Found in: Apples, Lilacs, Tea Tree
• Health Benefits: Anti-cancer, antifungal and antibacterial 
• Effects: Sedative, relaxation 
• Strains: Super Lemon Haze, Sour Tangie, and Shipwreck

Geraniol:

• Associated with: Roses
• Found in: tobacco and lemon
• Health Benefits: mosquito repellent, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral
• Effects: anxiety relief, mood booster
• Strains: Lavender, Master Kush, Amnesia Haze 

Ocimene: 

• Associated with: sweet and woody 
• Found in: mint, parsley, pepper, basil, orchids and kumquats 
• Health Benefits: Decongestant, antiviral, antibacterial 
• Effects: energizing 
• Strains: Strawberry Cough, Golden Goat, Space Queen 

Limonene: 

• Associated with: citrus
• Smells like: citrus 
• Found in: Juniper, citrus rinds, mint
• Health Benefits: anti-anxiety & antidepressant 
• Effects: Uplifting 
• Strains: Liberty Haze, Cookies and Cream, Gorilla Glue 4 

Humulene:

• Associated with: cannabis’ earthy scent 
• Found in: hops and coriander
• Health Benefits: appetite suppressant & anti-inflammatory 
• Effects: Appetite suppression 
• Strains: Candyland, Death Star, Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies 

Myrcene: 

• Associated with: musky earth
• Found in: mango, hops, thyme, citrus
• Health Benefits: Insomnia, anti-inflammatory, pain relief 
• Effects: relaxation & sleep 
• Strains: Jack Herer