Top Terpenes Found In Cannabis And Their Unique Benefits

Almost everyone in the cannabis world knows a few things about the two main cannabis compounds, THC and CBD. But what do you actually know about terpenes? Maybe you have never even heard of them before. 

Terpenes are fragrant oils found in cannabis that give each strain its unique scent and flavour. On top of that, they also have a wide range of therapeutic and physiological effects. Whether you are new to cannabis or a long-time user, understanding terpenes is very important for enhancing your cannabis experience and customising your high.

Will Terpenes Give Me A High?

Terpenes themselves are not psychoactive, so they will not give you a “high.” However, they do influence other compounds in the cannabis plant, like THC. Many of them work according to the “entourage effect,” where different cannabis compounds work together to create a stronger impact. Cannabis strains with high levels of certain terpenes can enhance the effects of THC, which can make your high last longer and increase its potency.

How Many Different Terpenes Are There?

There are more than 20 000 different known terpenes, which can be found in herbs, fruits, vegetables, and flowers. It is generally said that cannabis plants contain more than 200 terpenes, but some sources claim that there can be up to 400 terpenes in cannabis plants.

Key Terpenes And Their Benefits

Although many terpenes can have unique contributions to your cannabis experience, there are a few that stand out. Some of these terpenes include: 

• Myrcene
• Limonene
• Linalool
• Caryophyllene
• Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene
• Alpha-bisabolol
• Eucalyptol
• Trans-nerolidol
• Humulene

Myrcene

Myrcene is found in most cannabis strains and it can be as much as 65% of their total terpene profile. Myrcene has an earthy and musky scent that is similar to cloves. Some strains might even influence Myrcene to have more citrusy hints.

Strains that are high in Myrcene are usually indicas that have sedative properties, making them popular strains to use at night. Myrcene has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which is why it is also used as an additional supplement during cancer treatment.

Some strains that are high in Myrcene include:

• Skunk XL
• Mango Kush
• White Widow

Limonene

Limonene is known as a secondary terpene. This means that it is found in smaller amounts than myrcene and caryophyllene, which are caryophyllene. However, it is still one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis.

Limonene is a citrusy terpene that can also be found in oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits. This terpene has lots of potential, including antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. Limonene also has mental health benefits as it promotes relaxation and reduces stress.

Some strains that are high in Limonene include:

• Durban Poison
• Sour Diesel
• Jack Herer
• Super Lemon Haze

Linalool

This spicy and floral terpene is responsible for the famous smell of cannabis. Linalool can also be found in mint, lavender, coriander, and cinnamon. Linalool has strong relaxing properties and can be found in strains with high CBD levels. Since it has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic properties, patients that suffer from cancer, anxiety and depression, insomnia, and seizures can all benefit from this terpene.

Some strains that are high in Linalool include:

• Pink Kush
• Zkittlez
• Amnesia Haze
• Dos-Si-Dos

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is a peppery and spicy terpene that can also be found in cinnamon, black pepper, cloves, basil, oregano, and rosemary. Strains that are high in THC usually contain high levels of Caryophyllene. Like a cannabinoid, it binds directly to your body’s CB2 receptors.

These specific CB2 receptors are in your immune system and they are responsible for regulating pain and inflammation. This is why Caryophyllene is a key ingredient in almost all anti-inflammatory creams and topicals. Caryophyllene is also helpful for Crohn’s disease and arthritis.

Some strains that are high in Caryophyllene include:

• Sour Diesel
• Girl Scout Cookies
• Super Silver Haze

Alpha-Pinene And Beta-Pinene

As their names suggest, these terpenes are well-known for their pine-like aroma. You can find Pinene in cannabis strains with high THC concentrations. Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene can also be found in pine trees, basil, orange peels, rosemary, and parsley.

Both Pinene terpenes have anti-inflammatory properties, making them a popular choice for treating arthritis, acne, and other inflammatory conditions. 

Some strains that are high in Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene include:

• Blue Dream
• Grape Ape
• Jack Herer
• Remedy
• Dutch Treat

Alpha-Bisabolol

Alpha-bisabolol has a pleasant floral scent and can be found in plants like cannabis, Candeia trees, and camomile flowers. This terpene first gained popularity in the cosmetics industry, but recents studies have shown that Alpha-bisabolol has other medicinal properties as well.

Alpha-bisabolol can enhance the absorption of other compounds when it is applied topically. It can also help to treat bacterial wounds and infections, and is an antioxidant with analgesic and anti-irritation properties.

Some strains that are high in Alpha-bisabolol include:

• Pink Kush
• Harle-Tsu
• OG Shark

Eucalyptol

Eucalyptol is the main terpene in the eucalyptus tree. It produces a signature minty smell and has a cooling effect on the body. Eucalyptol is usually found in cannabis strains with high THC concentrations, but most strains do not contain very large amounts. 

Eucalyptol has the potential to slow the growth of fungus and bacteria as well as relieving pain. Its cooling properties can also help to reduce inflammation and increase relaxation. 

Some strains that are high in Eucalyptol include:

• Girl Scout Cookies
• Bubba Kush
• Super Lemon Haze
• Headband

Trans-Nerolidol

Trans-nerolidol is another secondary terpene that can be found in a variety of flowers. It is used in many essential oils that are derived from plants like lemon grass, tea tree oil, and jasmine. The scent of Trans-nerolidol can range anywhere from citrusy and apple to rosy and wood.

Trans-nerolidol has antifungal, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. This has made it a popular ingredient in fragrances, medicines, and cosmetics. 

Some strains that are high in Trans-nerolidol include:

• Skywalker
• Sour Kush
• Chemdawg
• Sweet Skunk

Humulene

Humulene is found in hops, sage, ginseng, cloves, and black pepper. It mostly has woody and earthy notes with a spicy undertone. Humulene has the potential to be anti-proliferative, meaning that it can prevent cancer cells from growing. It can also reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and fight bacterial infections.

Some strains that are high in Humulene include:

• Girl Scout Cookies
• White Widow
• Headband
• Sour Diesel

Terpenes give cannabis strains their unique scents and flavours, boosting your THC’s potency and enhancing your overall cannabis experience. Each terpene has its own unique effects and benefits, so consider researching your strains and their terpenes. Taking terpenes into account can be a fun and new way to choose new strains, and you might just end up finding exactly what you are looking for.