While the cannabis community is eager to learn more about terpenes, they are becoming as coveted by the consumer as the famous cannabinoids that have commanded virtually all the attention in the past.  

The following is a short list of the most common terpenes found in cannabis.

Linalool 

Linalool has one of the most identified scents of all the terpenes found in cannabis. It’s smell is reminiscent of the lavender plant, and this terpene gives certain strains that soothing, calming effect that we often associate with the cannabis experience. It’s also found in many fruits, flowers (including the rose), and spice plants like laurel, tangerine, spearmint, cypress, and lemon. 

Linalool is commonly used as a fragrance additive in scented hygiene items and cleaning agents including shampoos, soaps, and lotions. It’s thought to have a sedative effect and has been used in the relief of anxiety and pain.  

Strains high in linalool include amnesia haze, purple kush, and sour diesel. 

Pinene can also be found in conifer trees, orange peels, turpentine, pine needles, rosemary, dill, basil, and parsley. It’s been used in the treatment of asthma, pain, anxiety, ulcers, and cancer.

Some of the strains known to have high ratios of pinene include AK-47, Blue Dream, Harlequin, and Grape Ape. 

Caryophyllene 

Caryophyllene gives a broad sensory experience and includes a spicy, pungent, and musky odor when you crack open a dried cannabis flower. It’s common in many herbs and spices like black pepper, basil, and oregano, and cinnamon and cloves. It’s also present in hops.  

One thing that makes caryophyllene unique is that it’s the only known terpene that can interact directly with our body’s cannabinoid receptors, while other terpenes can’t bind directly to our endocannabinoid system like CBD and THC can.  

Strains with pronounced levels of Caryophyllene include Candyland, Death Star, and GSC. 

Some strains with the highest amounts of myrcene known include OG Kush, Remedy, Granddaddy Purple, and Tangie. 

Limonene 

Limonene gives cannabis strains a citrusy smell and it’s commonly found in fruit rinds, rosemary, juniper, and peppermint.  

It’s thought to contribute to the relief of anxiety, depression, inflammation, pain, and cancer in medical patients and can lead to elevated mood and help dissipate stress. It also has antifungal and antibacterial properties.  

Common strains that produce high levels of limonene include Hindu Kush, Lemon G, Cinex, Emerald Jack, and GG4. 

Terpinolene 

As far as common terpenes, terpinolene warrants a place at the bottom of the list due to its relatively small amounts present in cannabis compared to the others.  

Terpinolene has a piney, fruity, and herbal smell and it’s commonly found in nutmeg, tea tree, conifers, apples, cumin, and lilacs. The scent it exudes can be difficult to describe succinctly, because when you get a nose-full there seems to be a lot going on. Terpinolene presents a wide range of smells, but the word “fresh” will likely come to mind.  

It’s medicinal potential can be found in characteristics like antioxidant, sedative, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer.  

Strains high in terpinolene include Dutch Treat, Super Lemon Haze, Sour Tangie, and Sour Tsunami. 

Conclusion 

Many industry experts believe that terpene isolation is the future frontier in cannabis. Do you think about terpenes when selecting the best cannabis strain to suit your needs? We hope this short guide helps next time you visit the dispensary to find your next favorite strain. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the most common terpene in cannabis?
Myrcene is probably the most common terpene found in most cannabis sold today. 

What is the most therapeutic terpene in cannabis?
There isn't one particular terpene that's most therapeutic, it depends on the effect you're looking for, as well as the specific blend and ratio of combined terpenes. 

Why are terpenes important?
Terpenes are important because they enhance the overall therapeutic effect of cannabis, both in the enjoyment of the experience and the medicinal properties. 

How can you tell what terpenes are in cannabis?
Smell and taste are indicators of specific terpenes present in cannabis. Lab testing is required to determine exact amounts. 

How do you preserve terpenes in cannabis?
Terpenes are very volatile, so keeping cannabis away from high temperatures and storing cannabis in sealed glass jars helps preserve terpenes.