List of Cannabis Terpenes to Know

smell to find your right strain

While a relatively new conversation in cannabis, it goes without saying that terpenes have been here all along. These naturally occurring aromatic compounds are abundantly prevalent in nature – with tens of thousands of different terpenes having been identified. 

As an essential component of our olfactory interactions with the world, terpenes guide the senses and influence our relationship to the many aromas we find. They are what gives an orange rind its citrus smell and a forest its piney notes. When it comes specifically to weed, it’s why they say the nose knows. 

Amidst the many funky, fruity, gassy, skunky and sweet scents that make up the long list of terpenes on display within the cannabis plant, we consciously or subconsciously find ourselves making distinctions and developing preferences. Whether in the attraction to the hoppy buzz that is humulene, the intoxicating calmness of the linalool terpene, or the peppery zing of beta caryophyllene, the list of terpenes continues to wow cannabis industry professionals and consumers.

Looking to start talking (and smoking) some terps? Familiarizing yourself with the following list of terpenes will give you a foundational understanding to expand your cannabis knowledge and experience beyond the status quo.

High Guide Meryl Montgomery: The way terpenes interact with your body is why you feel clear-headed when you walk into a pine forest, why you feel relaxed when you breathe in a deep breath of lavender, and why stopping to smell the roses can actually help you de-stress and induce feelings of happiness.

Myrcene Terpene

The most abundant terpene found in cannabis, the myrcene terpene provides the earthy and herbal aromas often associated with the plant. The myrcene terpene is celebrated for its calming attributes – great for a good night’s sleep or relieving stress and tension. Given its prevalence, many cultivars have myrcene in them – but ones that have shown higher levels include Blue Dream and Granddaddy Purple. Beyond cannabis, the myrcene terpene is found in hops and lemongrass.

Humulene Terpene

A crowd favorite on the list of terpenes, humulene is known for its herbal and earthy aroma and for its abundance in the hops used for making beer. Its effects are considered to be anti-inflammatory, pain relieving, and appetite suppressing, as opposed to the common stereotype of all weed causing the munchies. Cultivars such as Headband, Girl Scout Cookies, and Gelato are known to possess higher levels of humulene, so try those out to avoid late night snack binges.

Linalool Terpene

You know that blissful feeling you get when you take in a deep breath of lavender? That is the linalool terpene at it’s finest. The sweet smelling linalool terpene is a mood booster beneficial in relieving stress, anxiety, and depression. This relaxing compound can also support our bodies immune system, so experiment with Do-Si-Do and Zkittles when your body needs some extra love.

Beta Caryophyllene Terpene

Consider this your peppery and pungent terpene which is responsible for the kick found in black pepper, cloves, and rosemary. Ironically, the spiced flavored beta caryophyllene typically enhances focus and cultivates calmness. Fuel-forward classics such as Chemdog and the modern day greats from the Cookies family often possess beta caryophyllene, the terpene typically associated with stoney, sedating, pain relieving highs.

Limonene Terpene

One of the more popular and abundant on the list of terpenes found in cannabis, the limonene terpene brings the bright citrus vibes. Cultivars with lemon, lime, or orange in the name (Lemon G, Lemon Jack) or ones that produce distinctly zesty aromas are likely to contain the limonene terpene. Effects are typically an energized, euphoric, mood enhancing experience that’s great for fighting stress, anxiety, or depression.