What makes cannabis enjoyable? What makes each strain unique in its flavours, aromas, and effects? It’s the terpenes, of course! In the world of cannabis, terpenes play a vital role in determining the unique aroma and flavour of each strain. 

This comprehensive guide will introduce you to the world of terpenes and provide you with the ultimate cannabis terpene chart to help you identify and understand the different types of terpenes found in your favourite strains.

The Benefits of Terpenes

Terpenes are the organic compounds found in cannabis, as well as a variety of other plants. They are responsible for giving plants their distinct aroma and flavour profiles. 

Terpenes are produced in the trichomes of the plant and serve several functions, including acting as a natural defence mechanism against predators and attracting pollinators. In cannabis, however, terpenes are more importantly a crucial component of the plant’s overall effect. 

The terpenes in a cannabis plant can significantly impact your experience. Depending on the specific terpenes present in a particular strain, it can have a variety of effects, including inducing relaxation, increasing focus, or providing pain relief.

Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in cannabis, with each strain containing a unique combination of these compounds. Some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis include:

• Myrcene
• Limonene
• Pinene
• caryophyllene

The study of terpenes and their potential medicinal benefits is a rapidly growing field. As research continues, it is becoming increasingly clear that these compounds play a more significant role in the therapeutic properties of cannabis than previously thought.

Cannabis Terpenes Chart and Guide

There are many different types of terpenes found in cannabis plants. In fact, there are over 150 known types of terpenes in the plant. Different terpenes have varying effects on consumers and affect the plant’s flavour and aroma profile.

Here are some of the common types of terpenes found in cannabis plants and what can be generally expected from plants with higher concentrations of these particular terpenes.

Myrcene

Aroma/Flavour Profile – Musky, earthy, sweet

Effects – Relaxing, sedating, couch-lock

Strains – OG Kush, Grand Daddy Purple

Myrcene is a natural organic compound. In addition to many popular cannabis strains, myrcene is also found in mango, thyme, hops, and other plants. The compound produces a musky, earthy aroma.

As the most common terpene found in cannabis strains, it’s likely in at least one of your favourites. A few popular strains that benefit from the compound’s effects in the high volume include Grand Daddy Purple, OG Kush, and Sour Diesel.

Myrcene gives off a pleasant and sweet aroma, meaning that not only does it add a great overall experience to cannabis products, but it’s often used in perfumes. Ahh, that sweet, sweet myrcene!

Cannabis strains containing higher volumes of myrcene will leave you feeling utterly and completely relaxed, with a sedative effect and full-on couch lock.

Limonene

Aroma/Flavour Profile – Sweet, citrus

Effects – Therapeutic, stress-relief, elevated mood

Strains – Wedding cake, do-si-dos, MAC, Banana OG

Limonene is a terpene commonly found in cannabis, as well as in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. It is responsible for the distinctive citrusy aroma and flavour of many strains. 

This terpene is believed to have a range of therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-cancer properties. Limonene is also a natural solvent and is commonly used in cleaning products, fragrances, and cosmetics. 

Some research suggests that limonene may enhance the absorption of other terpenes and cannabinoids, potentially making it an important component of the entourage effect in cannabis. 

The effects of limonene, when isolated, can have therapeutic effects and cause an elevated, happy mood. Strains containing higher volumes of limonene could be useful for stress relief. 

Caryophyllene

Aroma/Flavour Profile – Spicy, woodsy, peppery

Effects – Anti-inflammation, pain relief

Strains – Zkittles, Bubba Kush, Blue Dreams

Caryophyllene is a terpene found in cannabis, as well as in spices such as black pepper and cloves. It has a spicy, peppery aroma and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it a popular component in medicinal strains.

This terpene is found in a few popular cannabis strains, such as Bubba Kush and Blue Dreams. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory qualities, it is also commonly used in topicals and creams created to target inflammation and pain.

Though little research on caryophyllene has been done, it may have other effects and properties aside from the commonly accepted effect of pain relief and anti-inflammation. 

Linalool

Aroma/Flavour Profile – Floral, citrus, spicy

Effects – Relaxing, Sedation

Strains – Grand Daddy Purple, Do-si-dos, Red Haze, Kosher Kush

Linalool is a terpene commonly found in cannabis, as well as in plants such as lavender, mint, and coriander. It has a floral, slightly spicy aroma and is believed to have a range of therapeutic properties, including anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, and sedative effects. 

Linalool is often used in aromatherapy for its calming and relaxing properties and is a popular component of many strains of cannabis that are used to alleviate anxiety, stress, and insomnia, such as Red Haze and Kosher Kush.

Some research suggests that linalool may also have neuroprotective and anti-cancer properties, although further studies are needed to confirm these potential benefits.

Terpinolene

Aroma/Flavour Profile – Floral, Woodsy, herbs, citrus

Effects – Energetic, uplifting, therapeutic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant/fungal

Strains – Ghost Train Haze, Golden Pineapple, Orange Cookie

Terpinolene is a terpene found in cannabis, as well as in many other plants such as cumin, nutmeg, and tea tree. It has a unique aroma that is often described as woody, herbaceous, and floral with a touch of citrus. 

Terpinolene is known to have a wide range of potential therapeutic properties and health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and (sometimes) sedative properties. It may also have antifungal and antibacterial effects. 

In cannabis, terpinolene is typically found in strains with a lower THC content, and it is thought to play a role in modulating the effects of other cannabinoids and terpenes. The effects of the terpinolene terpene are often one of the uplifting and energetic effects on consumers.

Borneol

Aroma/Flavour Profile – Earthy

Effects – Relaxing, sedating

Strains – Golden Haze, Gorilla Grape, Amnesia Haze, K13 Haze

Found in cannabis plants, Borneol is also known for its presence in plants and herbs such as rosemary, mint, and camphor. It has a woody, camphoraceous aroma with a slightly minty undertone. 

Borneol is believed to have a range of therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties. It may also have potential as an insecticide and as a treatment for respiratory infections. 

Borneol is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine and has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. It’s also found in some perfumes. In cannabis, borneol is typically found in strains with a higher CBD content, and it is thought to work synergistically with other terpenes and cannabinoids to enhance their therapeutic effects. 

Eucalyptol

Aroma/Flavour Profile – Cool, fresh, minty, strong flavour and aroma

Effects – Relaxing, anti-inflammatory

Strains – Girl Scout Cookies, Bubba Kush, Super Silver Haze

Eucalyptol, also known as 1,8-cineole, is a terpene found in cannabis, as well as in eucalyptus, tea tree, and other plants. It has a fresh, minty aroma with a hint of spice and is commonly used in cough drops, mouthwash, and other medicinal products. 

Eucalyptol is believed to have a range of therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial effects. It may also have potential as a treatment for respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis. 

In cannabis, eucalyptol is typically found in strains with a higher THC content and is thought to play a role in modulating the psychoactive effects of THC. 

Valencene

Aroma/Flavour Profile – Citrus, sweet, Slightly woodsy

Effects – Elevated mood, euphoria, alertness

Strains – ACDC, Tangie, Gushers, Agent Orange

Valencene is a terpene found in cannabis, as well as in many citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines, and grapefruits. It has a sweet, citrusy aroma and is commonly used in the fragrance and flavour industries, such as in lollipops and hard candies.

Valencene is believed to have a range of therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. It may also have potential as a treatment for anxiety and depression. 

In cannabis, valencene is typically found in strains with a higher CBD content and is thought to work synergistically with other terpenes and cannabinoids to enhance their therapeutic effects. This means that valencene likely works with the entourage effect to contribute to the overall effects and experience of a strain.

Terpene Chart

The Terpenes Entourage Effect on Cannabis

Recent research suggests that terpenes found in cannabis may have therapeutic benefits and can enhance the effects of other compounds like THC and CBD. 

Some terpenes exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving properties. These compounds can work together to create “the entourage effect,” where the combination of various cannabis compounds produces a more potent and varied effect than each compound alone. 

The entourage effect is crucial in the therapeutic properties of cannabis and has significant implications for the development of medical cannabis treatments.

Why Terpenes Matter: Cannabis Consumers in the Know

Understanding the role of terpenes in the cannabis plant is crucial to appreciating and enjoying the various strains available. Knowing about the different types of terpenes will better equip you with the knowledge to identify and appreciate the diverse aromas and flavours of different strains.

Whether you are a seasoned cannabis user or a newbie, this guide has hopefully provided you with the tools to enhance your understanding of terpenes and, ultimately, your appreciation for the cannabis plant.

Sources:

Taki Taki

See all posts