Cannabis Terpenes: Benefits and Why They Matter More Than You Think

Cannabis isn’t just about THC and CBD. The plant’s effects, flavors, and aromas are also heavily influenced by terpenes and minor cannabinoids. These natural plant terpenes are found in many other plants, including citrus fruits, pine trees, herbs like rosemary, and spices like black pepper. Terpenes commonly found in cannabis play a significant role in how different cannabis strains smell, taste, and even how they make you feel.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about cannabis terpenes, from how they work and what they do in weed, to how to find strains with the terpene profiles that match your personal needs.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including the cannabis plant, that give each strain its unique aroma and flavor. These compounds do more than make your flower taste like citrus, pine, or diesel. They may also play a role in the overall effects of cannabis.

But do terpenes matter? When it comes to how a cannabis product might affect mood, energy, or relaxation, the answer is yes. Cannabis terpenes interact with various receptors in the body, alongside cannabinoids like THC and CBD, to influence how you respond. This phenomenon is known as the entourage effect, a theory suggesting that all compounds in the plant work better together than in isolation.

While research is ongoing, current findings suggest that certain terpenes may influence potential benefits like anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving properties. It’s also important to note that terpene effects can vary based on individual body chemistry; what helps one person relax might energize another.

Even when two cannabis strains have similar THC levels, their effects can feel completely different. That’s largely due to terpene profiles, which influence how the flower smells and feels when consumed. Minor cannabinoids found in cannabis also impact your experience.

So, do terpenes affect your high? They don’t get you high on their own, but they do seem to modify how cannabinoids like THC interact with your endocannabinoid system. For example, limonene might elevate mood, while myrcene may enhance sedation. Their influence on receptor activity, absorption, and neurotransmitter systems can lead to more stimulating or more calming effects, depending on the strain and your individual response.

There are over 150 known terpenes found in cannabis, but only a handful show up in significant amounts. These are the cannabis terpenes you’re most likely to encounter, and each brings its own aroma, flavor, and potential effects.

Here’s a quick overview of the most common cannabis terpenes and their effects:

Main Effects:

• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Antimicrobial
• Skin soothing
• May promote relaxation

Bisabolol has a subtly sweet scent with hints of chamomile and floral tea. Bisabolol is present in strains like ACDC, Harle-Tsu, and Pink Kush, and is commonly found in skincare products. Its calming and skin-supportive properties may help reduce irritation and inflammation and have anti-anxiety effects. While it is not recognized for having any psychoactive properties, it may enhance a strain’s therapeutic properties.

Main Effects:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Stress relief
• May reduce pain
• Possibly supports gut health

Beta-caryophyllene is one of the only terpenes known to interact with cannabinoid receptors, specifically CB2. It has a spicy, peppery aroma and is found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. It’s commonly found in strains like GSC (Girl Scout Cookies), Bubba Kush, and Sour Diesel. Because of its interaction with CB2 receptors, beta-caryophyllene may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties without the intoxicating effects of THC.

Main Effects:

• It may help with inflammation
• Antibacterial
• Subtle mood effects

Farnesene has a green apple-like aroma and is found in smaller amounts in cannabis compared to other terpenes. It appears in cannabis strains like Cherry Punch and OG Kush, as well as green apples and turmeric peels. Farnesene may offer calming effects without strong sedation and has been studied for anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits.

Main Effects:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant properties
• May support neuroprotection
• Floral and relaxing

Geraniol has a sweet, rose-like aroma with hints of fruit and citrus. Geraniol is found in strains such as Afghani, Amnesia Haze, and Headband, and is also used in perfumes and cosmetics. Early research suggests that geraniol may have neuroprotective properties and antioxidant benefits.

Main Effects:

• Appetite suppressant
• Anti-inflammatory
• May support pain relief
• Calming

Humulene has an earthy, woody aroma with a slight hoppy bitterness, similar to beer, which is unsurprising since it’s also found in hops. Humulene can be found in strains like White Widow, Headband, and GSC (Girl Scout Cookies). Unlike THC, humulene may suppress appetite rather than stimulate it. Humulene is frequently found alongside beta-caryophyllene, potentially working synergistically to reduce inflammation.

Main Effects:

• Uplifting and mood-boosting
• May reduce stress and anxiety
• Antifungal and antibacterial

Limonene is a citrusy-scented terpene with a bright, zesty aroma reminiscent of lemons, oranges, and grapefruit. Found in strains like Super Silver Haze, Wedding Cake, and Do-Si-Dos, limonene is often associated with feelings of euphoria and clarity. Limonene has also been studied for its potential antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects. Due to its potential energizing nature, it is frequently recommended for daytime use.

Main Effects:

• Calming and sedative
• Anti-anxiety properties
• Anti-inflammatory
• May support pain relief

Linalool gives cannabis a soft floral scent, often described as lavender-like with slight spice. It’s found in strains like Amnesia Haze, Do-Si-Dos, and Zkittlez. As a terpene also present in lavender, linalool is known for its calming, soothing effects. Linalool may be beneficial for those dealing with mental health conditions like depression.

Main Effects:

• Sedating and relaxing, supporting sleep
• It may help with pain relief
• Anti-inflammatory properties

Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in cannabis, often associated with several benefits and deeply relaxing effects. It has earthy, musky aromas with hints of cloves or cardamom, and sometimes a slightly sweet, fruity edge. Myrcene is in classic strains like Granddaddy Purple, Blue Dream, and OG Kush. Myrcene may enhance the sedative effects of THC, contributing to the “couch-lock” feeling in certain strains. Its sedative properties make it a common terpene in products targeting sleep and chronic pain.

Main Effects:

• Sedative, potentially supporting sleep
• Antifungal and antibacterial properties
• Calming

Nerolidol has a woody, floral aroma reminiscent of tree bark and fresh flowers. Present in strains like Skywalker OG and Jack Herer, nerolidol is often associated with calming and sedative effects and has been studied for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It may also enhance the permeability of skin and cell membranes, making it beneficial for applying topical cannabis products.

Main Effects:

• Uplifting and energizing
• Antiviral and antibacterial

Ocimene has a sweet, herbal aroma with hints of citrus and mint. It’s present in strains like Strawberry Cough, Green Crack, and Golden Goat. Known for its stimulating and potentially antiviral and antibacterial properties, ocimene may play a role in energy and mood support. It’s often used in essential oils and natural cleaning products.

Main Effects:

• Promotes alertness and focus
• Anti-inflammatory
• Bronchodilator (opens airways)
• May counteract THC-induced memory loss

Alpha-pinene is the more abundant of the two types of pinene and gives cannabis its signature fresh pine aroma, like forest air or rosemary. It’s found in strains like Jack Herer, Blue Dream, and OG Kush. Alpha-pinene is known by consumers to potentially promote mental clarity and has even been studied for potentially helping with short-term memory issues.

Main Effects:

• Uplifting and energizing
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• May enhance focus

Beta-pinene has a piney scent but also leans toward a woody or herbal profile. It can be found in dill, parsley, and basil, as well as in cannabis strains like Romulan, Chemdawg, and Island Sweet Skunk. While less researched than alpha-pinene, it is believed to share many of the same benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while potentially providing a slightly more uplifting and creative boost.

Main Effects:

• Energizing and uplifting
• Antioxidant and antibacterial
• May support mental clarity
• Mildly sedative in high doses

Terpinolene has a floral, piney, herbal, and slightly citrusy aroma and flavor. Terpinolene is less common than other terpenes and is typically found in sativa strains like Durban Poison, Jack Herer, Ghost Train Haze, and Golden Goat. Though it’s reportedly energized in lower doses, higher concentrations of terpinolene may be more calming. Terpinolene is also commonly used in soaps and cleaning products due to its fresh scent and antimicrobial properties.

An important note: Many studies regarding terpenes in cannabis and other plants are done with isolated terpenes or in combination with other individual terpenes using animals. Further research in humans on the effects of terpene profiles found in different cannabis varieties is recommended before making definitive claims about their potential therapeutic properties.

Terpenes aren’t one-size-fits-all; your ideal terpene profile depends on your mood, goals, and body chemistry. Whether you’re looking to relax, spark creativity, or support a medical condition, choosing the right cannabis terpene profile can personalize your experience and maximize benefits.

Here are some of the best terpenes for specific mental or emotional goals:

• Relaxation: Myrcene, Linalool, Humulene
• Creativity: Terpinolene, Limonene, Pinene, Ocimene
• Focus: Alpha- and Beta-Pinene, Beta-Caryophyllene, Humulene
• Mood Boost: Limonene, Geraniol, Nerolidol
• Sleep: Myrcene, Linalool, Nerolidol

These effects can vary based on the other cannabinoids present, such as THC or CBD, and your tolerance. Always start low and go slow when trying out new strains or products.

Cannabis terpenes can also play a role in supporting specific conditions. Here are some common reasons for medical cannabis use:

• Anxiety: Linalool, Beta-Caryophyllene, Myrcene
• Pain Management: Beta-Caryophyllene, Humulene, Limonene
• Inflammation: Humulene, Beta-Caryophyllene, Farnesene
• Sleep: Myrcene, Linalool, Nerolidol
• Arthritis: Beta-Caryophyllene, Humulene, Farnesene

Many medical cannabis users combine these terpenes with cannabinoids to enhance symptom relief. Always consult a healthcare provider if you’re using medical cannabis for a medical condition or specific symptom relief.

You can identify cannabis strains by examining their terpene profiles on product labels, dispensary menus, or laboratory test results. Many cannabis retailers now provide terpene profiles alongside THC and CBD percentages, particularly for flowers, concentrates, and vapes.

Here’s how to find strains with specific cannabis terpenes:

• Read lab results: Reputable dispensaries and brands often list terpene profiles in their Certificates of Analysis (COAs). Look for detailed terpene percentages alongside THC and CBD levels.
• Use terpene-focused platforms: Some cannabis databases and apps let you search by terpene (e.g., Leafly, Weedmaps, Cannigma). This makes finding strains with dominant profiles like limonene or myrcene easier.
• Shop full-spectrum products: Look for labels that mention “cannabis derived terpenes,” “full-spectrum,” or “live resin.” These tend to preserve a broader range of terpenes than heavily processed products.
• Talk to your budtender: Ask about strains that are rich in specific cannabis terpenes or known for particular effects (like pain relief or focus).
• Experiment and track results: Everyone’s body chemistry is different. Try a few options, track how you feel, and refine your terpene and cannabinoid ratio preferences over time.

At the end of the day, cannabis terpenes offer much more than their aroma; they’re a key part of how different products make you feel. The more you learn about cannabis terpenes and their effects, the better you can personalize your cannabis journey.