A Terpene is any class of hydrocarbons, occurring widely in plants and animals and empirically regarded as being built up from Isoprene, This is a hydrocarbon consisting of five carbon atoms attached to eight hydrogen atoms (C5H8). The term is often extended to Terpenoids, which are oxygenated derivatives of these hydrocarbons. This happens during the drying and curing stage.
Terpenoids, also known as isoprenoids, are a class of naturally occurring organic chemicals derived from the 5-carbon compound isoprene and its derivatives called Terpenes, diterpenes, etc. While sometimes used interchangeably with “terpenes”, terpenoids contain additional functional groups, usually containing oxygen. When combined with the hydrocarbon terpenes, terpenoids comprise of about 80,000 compounds. They are the largest class of plant secondary metabolites, representing about 60% of known natural products.
Terpenes, created and secreted by the same glands that produce CBD and THC, are the essential oils that give cannabis a diversity of signature scents, including pine, mint, berry, etc.
There are around 200 terpenes found in the cannabis plant, with around an additional 150 terpenoids identified.
Terpenes produce a subtler effect than its cannabinoid counterparts in terms of psychoactive effects. These aromatic substances have been a part of aromatherapy and other holistic therapies for many years. They have been used to affect a person’s stress levels and mood. Researchers believe these compounds derived from plants can elevate a person’s experience in a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
Primary terpenes, such as myrcene, are the most commonly found terpenes in the cannabis plant. These are the compounds that you can instantly smell on your buds. As a result, their higher concentration is going to dictate your experience more than terpenes found in smaller amounts. While they may have a relatively smaller concentration than cannabinoids, they’re just as important.
Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes available in cannabis plants. Many users describe myrcene’s aroma as peppery and spicy. Myrcene has been used in traditional folk medicine for ages due to its sedative, muscle-relaxing, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene found in hops, cloves, black pepper, and cooking herbs. Caryophyllene has particularly potent anti-inflammatory characteristics, which can help reduce the pain and damage inflicted by chronic inflammation.
Found in a variety of citrus fruits, limonene has a history of medicinal use. It’s been used to dissolve gallstones, improve mood, and treat heartburn and gastrointestinal reflux. In clinical studies, limonene has shown cancer-fighting properties and robust microbial properties to kill bacteria.
Pinene is the most commonly found terpene in the plant kingdom. Both isomers of pinene, alpha- and beta-pinene, can be found in eucalyptus and sage. Pinene is a powerful bronchodilator that helps asthma patients. Pinene has also been shown to promote memory retention and focus.
Linalool is a monoterpenoid found in cinnamon, mint, and laurel. It has more than just a floral aroma. Linalool is thought to have antimicrobial, sedative, and anti-anxiety effects. It’s also been shown to reduce pain sensitivity and epileptic episodes.
This is another outdoorsy, woodsy scent. Two main medicinal uses for this compound are as an appetite suppressant and an anti-inflammatory.
Found in oranges, nerolidol can have sedative and anti-fungal effects. Studies have also shown that nerolidol has antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, and anti-anxiety effects. While most of these studies have been on animal models, the results are promising.
Ocimene is a common terpene in fragrant herbs such as mint, parsley and basil, as well as many orchid flower subspecies. The scent is described as sweet, woodsy, and herbaceous.
Ocimene is often associated with uplifting, energising cannabis effects. The terpene functions as part of the cannabis plant’s external defence system, which explains its powerful anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties.
Secondary terpenes are the next most abundant terpene forms in the cannabis plant. Found in much smaller amounts than primary terpenes, they are still a critical part of your experience. For the entourage effect to be maximised, it’s important for you to consume the entire range of primary and secondary terpenes.
Borneol
Borneol has a menthol and woody aroma. As an ancient Asian medicinal ingredient, borneol is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. As a relaxing sedative, borneol can also reduce fatigue and improve your mood.
Camphene
Camphene has an earthy and woody scent that reminds users of fir needles. Camphene has been shown to provide pain relieving and antioxidant effects. Camphene has been associated with improved heart health and anti-fungal properties.
Camphor
Mainly derived from the camphor tree, camphor can be absorbed through the skin. Camphor has a similar cooling effect to menthol. It’s been used for its subtle anaesthetic and antimicrobial characteristics.
Eucalyptol
Has a signature minty and earthy scent and is used in everything from cough drops to mouthwashes. Eucalyptol has strong anti-fungal effects. Studies have shown that eucalyptol helps with pancreatitis, inflammation, and respiratory diseases.
Guaiol
This isn’t as well-known as some terpenes, but maybe it should be. This terp shares a lot in common with pinene. It gets its name from the guaiacum plant whose bark it’s derived from; like pinene, guaiol smells woodsy and earthy. Research shows that guaiol may be both anti-viral and anti-bacterial.
Bisabolol
Usually found in chamomile flowers. Research shows it’s anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and more. Bisabolol is said to have a delicate floral scent.
Phytol
With flora tones, this terpene gives the user a sense of relaxation. It’s often used for its sedative and anti-anxiety properties. Another of its therapeutic qualities is as an anti-inflammatory.
Sabinene
Although not one of the most common cannabis terpenes, this strain has a unique peppery or spicy scent.
Terpineol
The aroma of terpineol can be best described as floral-like, reminiscent of lilacs, apple blossom, and a little bit citrusy. Terpineol tastes like anise and mint. Terpineol has a pleasant scent, similar to lilac, and is a common ingredient in perfumes, cosmetics, and flavours.
It relaxes heavily and it’s usually the one responsible for the notorious couch lock effect. Medical benefits of terpineol also include antibiotic and antioxidant properties.
Valencene
This terpene got its name from sweet Valencia oranges — where it’s been found in large amounts. With its sweet citrusy aromas and flavours, it’s used as an insect repellent too.
Geraniol
Besides cannabis, geraniol can be found in lemons and tobacco. Its smell reminds of rose grass, peaches and plums. It’s usually used in aromatic bath products and body lotions. Geraniol has shown a lot of potential as a neuroprotectant and antioxidant.