When you pop open a container of flower, the first thing you notice is likely the smell. From funky, earthy, skunky scents to lite, bright, citrusy aroma, the smell is an integral part of the marijuana experience. Terpenes are the compounds in marijuana that you smell, and knowing what they are will deepen your appreciation of cannabis. Here is a list of the top five most popular terpenes and what makes each unique.
Limonene TerpeneContrary to popular belief, not all pot that tastes like citrus or lemon has the limonene terpene. This common terpene gives a fruity or citrus-like flavor and a fresh scent that many stoners love. Limonene is also found in citrus fruits and juniper and is used for its stress and anxiety reducing properties. | Limonene Strains to Try – Wedding Cake, Berry White, Peanut Butter Breath, Do-si-dos, King Louis
Pinene TerpeneLike the name suggests, pinene is found in pine trees, conifers, rosemary, dill, parsley, and basil plants and is the most common terpene on earth. In cannabis, the compound is often the second highest in concentration, but rarely the main terpene of a strain. Pinene is associated with reduced inflammation, pain, and anxiety. | Pinene Strains to Try – Big Smooth, Blue Dream, Harlequin, Citrus Sap, Critical Mass, Snoop’s Dream
Myrcene terpeneMyrcene is the most prevalent cannabis terpene, representing roughly 20% of all terpenes in commercial marijuana. It gives off a distinct smell that resembles clove. The aromatic compound is also found in high quantities in mango, basil, lemongrass, and hops, a key ingredient in IPA beer. It has a calming, mild sedative effect and is also an analgesic. | Myrcene Strains to Try – OG Kush, Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights, Green Crack, Grape Ape
Linalool terpeneOne whiff of this therapeutic terpene will immediately transport you to a fragrant lavender field. Linalool gives lavender its characteristic scent. Plants with linalool are often used medicinally for aromatherapy purposes, anxiety reduction, and for their anti-microbial and anti-epileptic properties. Linalool isn’t found in high quantities in cannabis, and is rarely the most prominent terpene in a strain. | Linalool Strains to Try – Lavender Kush, Amnesia, Haze, Zkittlez, Kosher Kush
Caryophyllene terpeneThat diesel or spicy tingling associated with some of the most popular marijuana strains comes from the caryophyllene terpene. The antioxidant-rich compound is also found in black pepper, cinnamon, oregano, and cloves. There are numerous terpene benefits, and caryophyllene specifically can help treat inflammation, anxiety, depression, and more. | Caryophyllene Strains to Try – Gelato, Girl Scout Cookies, Blue Cookies, Sour Diesel, Pineapple Express
