What Is a Terpene?

You may have heard about terpenes in relation to cannabis. They are the chemical compounds in plants that give it its aroma. Like cannabinoids, the terpenes are created and excreted through the trichomes, which are small gland-like structures found on the cannabis plant. Ever wonder why different strains all have unique smells? This is because of the different terpene profiles of each strain. Research suggests that terpenes play a vital role in the different effects of various cannabis strains as terpenes contain therapeutic properties on their own. So, when purchasing cannabis, be aware of their terpene profile as well as their cannabinoid profile. When looking at terpene percentages in a certain strain, anything over 0.05% is significant. There are over 100 different terpenes found in the cannabis plant, below are 5 of the most common.

Common Terpenes Found In Cannabis

Pinene
Aroma: Pine
Also Found in: Pine trees, basil, rosemary
Effects: alertness and euphoria
Therapeutic Properties: anti-Inflammatory, bronchodilator, memory aid, analgesic, antibacterial, anti-proliferative, antioxidant

Linalool
Aroma: Floral
Also Found in: Lavender
Effects: slight sedation, relief from anxiety
Therapeutic Properties: anti-anxiety, anti-convulsant, analgesic, antidepressant, antipsychotic

Limonene
Aroma: Citrus
Also Found in: fruit rinds, juniper, peppermint
Effects: stress relief, uplifting mood
Therapeutic Properties: antidepressant, gastroprotective, anti-anxiety, anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, immunostimulant

Myrcene
Aroma: Musk and earthy
Also Found in: Mango, lemongrass, thyme, hops
Effects: sedation and relaxation
Therapeutic Properties: anti-oxidant, muscle relaxant, analgesic, anti-proliferative, antipsychotic, anti-diabetic, anti-insomnia

Caryophyllene
Aroma: Spicy and peppery
Also Found in: Black Pepper, clove
Effects: n/a
Therapeutic Properties: analgesic, antibacterial, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, antioxidant, anti-anxiety, neuroprotective

 Russo E, (2011) Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology. 163: 1344-1364

Mikayla Kemp
Mikayla Kemp is director of education at Pushr, a cannabis distributor located in southern California. Prior to joining Pushr, she worked for cannabis management company where she trained all of the budtenders across their chain of retail stores. Mikayla is the co-author of the Itty Bitty Guide To Cannabis. A biologist by trade, Mikayla is passionate about cannabis, and she excels at imparting in-depth product knowledge to bud tenders at all of Pushr's retail accounts.

Pushr is a cannabis distribution company located in Southern California. The company is on a mission to push the cannabis industry forward through innovative technology, in-depth training and education, efficient supply chain management, and reliable service.