Terpenes Guide
Aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinctive smell and taste. Terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids through the entourage effect.
Click a segment to explore that terpene
The Entourage Effect
The entourage effect is the theory that all compounds in cannabis work together synergistically. When terpenes combine with cannabinoids, they can modify and enhance each other's effects — creating a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. This is why whole-plant extracts often produce different effects than isolated compounds.
Myrcene
Earthy, Musky, HerbalThe most abundant terpene in cannabis, myrcene can make up to 65% of the total terpene profile. It enhances THC's psychoactive effects by increasing cell membrane permeability, allowing cannabinoids to cross the blood-brain barrier faster.
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Limonene
Citrus, Lemon, OrangeThe second most common terpene in nature. Limonene is rapidly absorbed through inhalation and can enhance absorption of other terpenes and chemicals through the skin and mucous membranes.
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Pinene
Pine, Sharp, FreshThe most widely encountered terpene in nature. Pinene acts as a bronchodilator, opening airways, and may counteract some of THC's short-term memory impairment by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase.
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Linalool
Floral, Lavender, SpicyKnown for its calming, anti-anxiety effects. Linalool is used in traditional medicine for centuries. It modulates the glutamate and GABA neurotransmitter systems, producing sedative, anxiolytic, and anti-epileptic properties.
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Caryophyllene
Spicy, Peppery, WoodyThe only terpene known to directly activate CB2 cannabinoid receptors, making it functionally a dietary cannabinoid. This unique property gives it powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving abilities.
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Humulene
Earthy, Woody, HoppyFound abundantly in hops, humulene gives beer its distinctive bitter taste. Unlike most cannabis terpenes, humulene suppresses appetite rather than stimulating it.
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Terpinolene
Piney, Floral, HerbalA lesser-known terpene found in small amounts in many strains. Despite being uncommon as a dominant terpene, it appears frequently in sativa strains and contributes to their uplifting effects.
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Ocimene
Sweet, Herbal, WoodyA monoterpene found in a wide variety of plants. Ocimene is thought to be part of the plant's defense mechanism against pests. It has shown antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
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Nerolidol
Woody, Floral, CitrusA secondary terpene found in many strong aromatics. Nerolidol enhances skin absorption of other compounds, making it valuable in transdermal cannabis applications. Shows significant anti-parasitic and anti-fungal activity.
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Bisabolol
Sweet, Floral, ChamomileThe primary terpene in chamomile, bisabolol has been used in cosmetics for centuries due to its skin-healing properties. In cannabis, it adds a subtle floral sweetness and powerful anti-inflammatory effects.
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Borneol
Minty, Camphor, HerbalUsed in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Borneol is easily absorbed and helps other compounds cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially enhancing the effects of other terpenes and cannabinoids.
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Valencene
Citrus, Sweet Orange, WoodyNamed after Valencia oranges, this sesquiterpene gives cannabis strains their sweet citrus character. Research shows it may protect skin from UV damage and has notable anti-allergic properties.