What is a Terpene?
Terpenes are organic compounds that enhance your “high”, affect taste, and hold numerous medical benefits. Terpenes (and terpenoids) are aromatic organic hydrocarbons found in many plants and even some insects. Cannabis (marijuana) has naturally high levels of terpenes.
Terpenes are found in high quantities in various essential oils. For example, limonene is in the essential oil of lemons and limes, alpha and beta-pinene are found in the essential oil of pine needles. The terpenes in these essential oils contribute to the uplifting effects you experience if you smell the rind of a lemon or walk through a pine forest. Likewise, the terpene linalool predominates the essential oil of lavender, and is known for creating feelings of relaxation and ease. All of these terpenes, and thousands more, are found in high concentrations in the bud of cannabis. A few common terpenes and their effects:
Myrcene:
The most common terpene in cannabis. It is also known as the “couch-lock” terpene for its highly-sedative effects. If myrcene is the top terpene in a concentrate and if it has a concentration greater than 1%, it is likely to produce typical “myrcene” effects – i.e. sedation. Myrcene can be useful for treating pain and anxiety, but it is not an ideal terpene for people looking to engage in normal activity with cannabis.
Limonene:
Common in citrus, it is highly-energetic and a known antidepressant. This terpene exhibits nearly the opposite effect of myrcene. It’s highly-energetic and uplifting. Limonene is an exceptional mood-lifter The energy produced from these terpenes may be excessive for a person looking to simply treat pain or anxiety.
Pinene: This terpene exhibits nearly the opposite effect of myrcene. Energetic and therapeutic, this terpene is common in pine needles. If you’ve ever walked through a forest and felt “lifted” you’ve experienced this terpene! It’s highly-energetic and uplifting. Pinene has neuroprotective benefits and may aid in preventing memory loss due to THC. The energy produced from these terpenes may be excessive for a person looking to simply treat pain or anxiety.
Terpinolene:
A smokey or woody aroma that is slightly sedative, antioxidant, anti-cancer and antibacterial. Terpinolene stands out among the most-common dominant terpenes for it’s unique flavor (herbal, woody, gasoline) and for its curious effects. For some, terpinolene is energizing and creative. For others it behaves more like myrcene, introducing a calm relaxation. To understand how terpinolene may affect you requires trial-and-error.

Beta-Caryophyllene:
Gastroprotective and a strong anti-inflammatory with a woody, peppery taste.
Humulene:
The main constituent of hops is a strong anti-inflammatory agent and a hunger-suppressant.
So – why do terpenes matter?
1. They directly affect your high and contribute to The Entourage Effect of cannabis
2. They have medical benefits
3. They give cannabis and vape oil its natural flavor