Terpenes are a large and diverse class of organic compounds produced by various plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the unique smells and tastes associated with different strains of cannabis. For example, the terpene limonene has a citrus scent, while myrcene might give off earthy or musky notes.
If you have ever smelled a cannabis plant, then you know each one has distinct aromas. These aromas are powered by terpenes, and either entice or repel tapping into the knowledge of “the nose knows”. So, before you ever consume a cannabis plant its smells or terpenes are clueing you in to its unique effects and tastes.
There are two main types of terpenes. Monoterpenes are the simplest kind of terpenes. Their chemical structure consists of 10 carbon atoms and 2 isoprene units. Some examples of monoterpenes are linalool and pinene. The Latin prefix ‘sesqui’ means “one and a half,” so a sesquiterpene is made up of 15 carbon atoms and 3 isoprene units. Some examples include Caryophyllene and humulene.
These compounds have distinct aromas and flavors that play important roles in the plant’s interactions with its environment. For one, terpenes can act as a defense mechanism, deterring herbivores or attracting pollinators (although cannabis does not need pollinators to reproduce). For example, scientists have observed that pine trees with an abundance of alpha-pinene are unattractive to squirrels who tend to eat branches with no or small amounts of this terpene.
Terpenes are also used for their effects in health products. They are extracted from plants and can be found in not only cannabis and cannabis oil but also essential oils like lavender oil or lemongrass oil. They are used in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and perfumes for their beneficial properties. Some of them are believed to have potential therapeutic effects, such as anti-inflammatory or mood-enhancing properties, although research in this area is ongoing.
Each cannabis plant has a unique terpene profile, and each plant is dominant in different kinds of terpenes. Terpenes produce effects on their own but when taken in combination with other terpenes and cannabinoids like THC, studies have shown they can influence the therapeutic effects. So, terpenes are important because of the entourage effect, which is when terpenes and cannabinoids interact with each other.
Terpenes bind to receptors in our bodies just like cannabinoids do. When terpenes and cannabinoids bind to a receptor it sends a different signal than when cannabinoids bind to receptors alone. Some studies have shown that terpenes may enhance cannabinoid activity and effects which may be beneficial for the treatment of psychological disorders like depression and anxiety.
Did you know Bud & Mary’s has a cannabis research team? View the video below to hear from one of our Research Associates, Tylor from our Colorado team on why terpenes are important.
From light floral smells, tropical or fruity, to heavy diesel and musky smells, cannabis terpenes offer a kaleidoscope of aromas. Here are some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis. Check out our Bud & Mary’s cannabis strains to explore our flower offerings that list the top terpenes for each cannabis product.
| Terpene | Aromas | Properties |
| Myrcene | Earthy, Herbal, Cloves, Diesel | Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipsychotic, sedative, muscle relaxant |
| Limonene | Citrus, Lemon, Orange | Antidepressant, antifungal, antimicrobial, immunostimulant |
| Caryophyllene | Pepper, Wood, Spicy, Diesel | Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-depressant, anti-septic |
| Linalool | Floral, Sweet, Citrus | Analgesic, anticonvulsant, antiepileptic, sedative |
| A-Pinene | Pine, wood, fresh | Anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective, bronchodilator, energy, memory, anti-bacterial |
| Humulene | Earthy, wood, spicy | Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, promotes wound healing, appetite suppressant |
| Borneol | Mint, metallic, herbal | Anti-inflammatory, analgesic |
| Terpinolene | Sweet, floral, woody | Antioxidant, antibacterial, antiseptic, sedative |
In summary, terpenes are aromatic compounds with diverse functions in both nature and human use, and their presence contributes significantly to the sensory profiles of plants, especially cannabis clueing you in to its effects. Find our cannabis strain products here. If you work for a dispensary and are interested in carrying our Bud & Mary’s or Curated cannabis flower products contact us.
