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In the past, we set out to help explain what terpenes are and their significance as it relates to the flavor profiles and experiential factors of various cannabis strains. More and more, scientists and cannabis consumers alike are recognizing that terpenes, more than THC counts, are critical in determining what effects a strain might deliver and how potent a strain is.
The following is a quick summary of some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis – from their aroma to the effects they are most known for:
While there are more than 250 identified terpenes found in cannabis, so far only a handful, like those above, have been linked to specific aromas and effects. With each cannabis strain having a unique composition, surely more terpenes will be uncovered. Have you discovered your favorite yet?
The following is a quick summary of some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis – from their aroma to the effects they are most known for:
Myrcene is the most abundant terpene in cannabis with one study showing that it makes up as much as 65% of total terpene profiles in some strains. Myrcene’s aroma is earthy, with musky notes, resembling cloves. Also, it has a fruity, red grape-like aroma. It’s known for its relaxing and euphoria-inducing properties and for delivering a “couch-lock” effect. Sweet. Dirt’s Banana Split Blade has myrcene as one of its dominant terpenes.
Limonene is the second most abundant terpene in all cannabis strains, but not all strains necessarily have it. As its name says, limonene gives strains a citrusy smell that resembles lemons. Limonene is known to improve mood and reduce stress. Strains that have “lemon” or “sour” in their name are usually rich in limonene. Strains like Sweet Dirt’s Alaskan Orange Tree are chock-full of this terpene.
Best known for its spicy, peppery, woody note, caryophyllene is also found in black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and spices like oregano, basil, and rosemary. Caryophyllene is one of the most thoroughly studied terpenes found in cannabis. Our Nor’easter strain is a great example of a strain with caryophyliene.
Pinene, one of the most researched and documented terpenes found in cannabis, is available in two varieties: Alpha-pinene and beta-pinene. The more-common alpha type carries a scent of pine needles and rosemary, while beta-pinene conveys an aroma of basil, dill, hops, and parsley. Strains rich in pinene include Blue Dream, Island Sweet Skunk, and Trainwreck.
Humulene was the first terpene found in hops. Its aroma contains earthy, woody, and spicy notes. Besides cannabis, it can be also found in clove, sage, and black pepper. Humulene terpenes can be found in marijuana strains such as Gelato, Atlantis, and Sour Diesel.
Terpineol’s aroma is floral-like, reminiscent of lilacs, apple blossom, and a little bit citrusy. Terpineol tastes like anise and mint. Terpineol has a pleasant scent, similar to lilac, and is a common ingredient in perfumes, cosmetics, and flavors. It is known for its sedative, relaxing effect. It can be found Girl Scout Cookies, Jack Herer, and OG Kush strains.
The Linalool terpene is the most responsible for the recognizable marijuana smell with its spicy and floral notes. Linalool is also found in lavender, mint, cinnamon, and coriander and, like those aromatic herbs, has very strong sedative and relaxing properties.
Ocimene offers a sweet, woodsy fragrance. In addition to cannabis, Ocimene is found in mint, parsley, basil, orchids, oregano, mango, mint, lavender, as well as other plants. Strains that are often high in Ocimene include Super Lemon Haze, Purple Haze, or Himalayan Gold.
Bisabolol has a pleasant floral aroma and can also be found in chamomile flower. It can be found in strains like Pink Kush, Headband, OG Shark, and ACDC.
While there are more than 250 identified terpenes found in cannabis, so far only a handful, like those above, have been linked to specific aromas and effects. With each cannabis strain having a unique composition, surely more terpenes will be uncovered. Have you discovered your favorite yet?