Terpenes are a whole class of naturally occurring chemical compounds found in all plants and some animals. Terpenes are responsible for the aromas, flavors and even colors associated with various types of vegetation. In cannabis, the combination of terpenes gives each strain its unique scent and taste—it is why Tangie smells like sweet oranges, Superglue like a pine forest, Green Love Potion like lavender and Sour Diesel like a tank of fuel.
Research has yet to demonstrate just how these aromatic compounds contribute to the effects of cannabis, but conceptually, the terpene profile of a specific strain works in tandem with the cannabinoid profile to produce the sensations imparted by that strain. Terpenes appear to be the steering wheel, driving the cannabinoids towards specific physiological and psychological reactions.
There are more than 50,000 terpenes that have been identified overall in nature, of which 400 have been found in cannabis. Terpenes (terpenoids) are divided into monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, and triterpenes depending on its carbon (isoprene) units. Most of the terpenoids with the variation in their structures are biologically active and are used worldwide for the treatment of many diseases.
Although most terpenes are present in cannabis in only trace amounts, the more prominent ones are highlighted below along with terms found in discussions of terpenes.
2-AG
2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is a signaling lipid in the central nervous system that is a key regulator of neurotransmitter release. 2-AG is an endocannabinoid (produced naturally by the human body) that
activates the cannabinoid CB1 receptor. It is involved in a wide array of (patho) physiological functions, such as emotion, cognition, energy balance, pain sensation and neuroinflammation.
Anandamide
Anandamide is a major endocannabinoid, or cannabinoid produced in the body, which acts as a messenger in the endocannabinoid system. activating cannabinoid receptors such as CB1and CB2 receptors to modulate different functions in the body to help maintain homeostasis. Anandamide, scientifically known as N- arachidonoylethanolamine, comes from the Sanskrit word, “ananda,” meaning “joy,” and is sometimes referred to as the “bliss molecule.”
Bisabolol
Bisabolol (or alpha-bisabolol) is a terpene found in cannabis but more frequently associated with chamomile. Bisabolol is commonly used for its skin-soothing properties and may be a powerful anti-inflammatory.
Bisabolol sweet, mild floral aroma is also quite relaxing. Bisabolol is poorly soluble in water and glycerin, but soluble in ethanol.
Borneol
A lesser-known monoterpenoid found in cannabis, this aromatic compound emits an herbal balsam scent often likened to camphor or menthol. Borneol offers several therapeutic benefits, including enhancing the therapeutic effects of certain drugs. Borneol has been used as an anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator.
However, Borneol can also irritate the nose and throat. This minty-fresh terpene can be found in higher concentrations in cultivars such as OG Kush and Haze strains.
Camphene
Camphene is a terpene found in cannabis, as well as other plants. It is common to conifers, such as Douglas fir and camphor trees. It is also found in nutmeg, cypress oil, bergamot oil, and valerian, and is the distinguishing terpene found in camphor oil and mothballs. It is used as a fragrance and flavoring agent, and exhibits therapeutic properties with antimicrobial, antiviral, and pain-relieving effects, and can provide cough relief.
Camphene is not water soluble and is flammable.
Camphor
Camphor produces an intense aroma responsible for the minty flavor in cannabis. Camphor is said to have powerful anesthetic and antimicrobial properties. Camphor can be used as a natural remedy for a cold or cough and is a natural expectorant. It is found in products like vapor rubs to help get rid of chest congestion. It also serves as a stimulant. Camphor is in many products that are applied to the skin. Cannabis strains heavy in camphor will provide an uplifting feeling that can help with focusing.
Carene
Delta-3 carene is a terpene found in cannabis and plants and trees such as allspice, basil, rosemary, lemons, pines and cedars. Carene has a sweet, citrusy pungent earthy aroma with notes of pine. Medicinally may improve bone health (in low concentrations) and be used as an anti-inflammatory. Carene is believed to promote memory retention and alertness.
Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is a terpene found in cannabis, as well as in many other plants such as cloves and black pepper. Sometimes referred to as beta-caryophyllene or BCP, this terpene is known for its pungent peppery and earthy aroma and flavor. Some studies suggest caryophyllene may help reduce pain, anxiety, depression, and
substance addiction. In addition, it’s been shown to be an antioxidant, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory agent, and some studies even suggest it could increase lifespan by reducing gene stress.
Cedrene
Cedrene is a sesquiterpene found in cannabis and cedar wood. With a fresh, woody, and sweet scent, cedrene adds an appealing dimension to the scent profile of cannabis. Cedrene is categorized as secondary terpene as it tends to be expressed in low concentrations in most cannabis cultivars, but still contributes to a cultivar’s
overall aroma and performance. Cultivars with more discernable cedrene notes include Jet Fuel and Skyrunner.
Citronellol
Citronellol is a terpene found in some strains of cannabis, as well as in essential oils and other plants such as citronella, basil, eucalyptus, ginger, catnip, and Cymbopogon citratus (a plant with antihypertensive properties). It is commonly used as a fragrance in perfumes and as a flavoring agent in food and drinks. Early research suggests it may be a viable neuroprotectant and anticonvulsant and may help open constricted airways.
Cymene
A common terpene found in hundreds of different plants, including cannabis. It often shows up on the dinner table in cumin, oregano, thyme, anise, and coriander. Its aroma and flavor have hints of citrus, earth, and wood. It is not a primary compound in cannabis and only shows up in small amounts in some strains. It is thought to have antimicrobial and antibacterial benefits.
Diterpenes
Diterpenes are any of a class of terpenes C20H32 containing twice as many atoms in a molecule as monoterpenes. Diterpenes (C20) are fungal, and plant secondary metabolites made of four isoprene groups and have a higher boiling point.
Eucalyptol
Eucalyptol, sometimes referred to as “cineol,” is a terpene found in the cannabis plant, eucalyptus trees, and several other commonly used plants such as bay leaves, cardamom, tea tree, and sage. It has a vibrant fresh scent that is often described as minty and cooling. Research suggests eucalyptol may help with sinus infections and pain, as well as decrease blood pressure and improve cognitive function for those with dementia.
Geranyl
Geranyl, also known as geranyl acetate, is a terpene found in cannabis that emits a pleasantly fruity, floral scent. Studies indicate that geranyl boasts several therapeutic properties, such as antimicrobial action. Geranyl is present in high levels in cannabis cultivar Zkittlez, known for its fruit-forward aroma.
Guaiol
Guaiol, also known as champacol, is a lesser-known cannabis terpene that tends to appear only in trace amounts. It is known to carry a sharp woody aroma like pine. It can also be found in the hard, oily timber of the evergreen guaiacum plant found in the Caribbean, as well as in coniferous varieties like cypress pines.
Humulene
Humulene is a terpene produced by the cannabis plant. Humulene contributes to the herbal aroma of not only cannabis, but of many other plants such as hops, sage, and ginseng. Although the full range of its properties in cannabis requires more study, humulene is believed to have anti-inflammatory benefits. Humulene usually takes a backseat in the terpene profile of most strains, typically appearing in lesser abundance than more dominant terpenes like myrcene, limonene, or caryophyllene.
Isoborneol
Isoborneol is an isometric form of borneol, a terpene found in cannabis, as well as citrus peel oils, nutmeg, ginger, and thyme. It is used for adding fragrance to perfumes and should not be ingested in large quantities. There is evidence that isoborneol, when in concert with other essential oils, can offer relief from minor pains and aches, treat hemorrhoids, and even have anticoagulant effects that could be beneficial for cardiovascular patients.
Isoprene
Isoprene (2-methyl-1,3-butadiene) is a branched-chain unsaturated hydrocarbon, unsaturated meaning it contains one or more double bonds between carbon atoms. Isoprene has in fact two carbon-carbon double bonds. Isoprenoids contain from two to many thousands of isoprene units.
Isopulegol
Isopulegol is a terpene, or aromatic compound, present in cannabis. As the chemical precursor to menthol, isopulegol has a distinctively fresh, minty odor. Isopulegol is a secondary terpene, with concentration levels that often fly under the radar. Kosher Tangie, Headband, and OG Kush are cannabis cultivars with more significant isopulegol levels.
Limonene
Limonene is a prominent terpene found in several cannabis strains, as well as many other plants like lemons, juniper, and even mint. In cannabis, it has shown to decrease anxiety, curb inflammation, and promote better digestion, among other therapeutic effects. With myrcene, it’s one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis. It has several uses outside cannabis and can be found in food flavorings, cleaning products, and aromatherapy.
Lipid
A lipid is any of various organic compounds that are insoluble in water. They include fats, waxes, oils, hormones, and certain components of membranes and function as energy-storage molecules and chemical messengers. Lipids are organic compounds that contain hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen atoms, which forms the framework for the structure and function of living cells.
Lipid Signaling
Lipid signaling, broadly defined, refers to any biological signaling event involving a lipid messenger that binds a protein target, such as a receptor, kinase or phosphatase, which in turn mediate the effects of these lipids on specific cellular responses.
Linalool
Linalool is a terpene found in the cannabis plant, as well as in over 200 other plant species. It has a light, sweet fragrance that is both floral and woody, with notes of blueberry. Its most common uses are as a flavoring in foods or a scent in cosmetics, topicals, and other scented products. In cannabis and aromatherapy, it is used to support relaxation, sleep, and pain relief.
Menthol
Menthol is a monoterpene that naturally occurs in trace amounts in cannabis, as well as prominently in other plants, such as peppermint and spearmint. Menthol is known for its cooling effects and is one of the most well- known and widely used terpenes in both organic and synthetic form, popular in oral hygiene, medicinal, and tobacco products.
Monoterpenes
Monoterpenes are a class of terpenes that consist of two isoprene units and have the molecular formula C10h26. Monoterpenes may be linear (acyclic) or contain rings (monocyclic and bicyclic). Modified terpenes, such as those containing oxygen functionality or missing a methyl group, are called monoterpenoids.
Myrcene
Myrcene is a terpene found in the cannabis plant, as well as in other plants such as mango, lemongrass, basil, and hops. It has an earthy, peppery aroma with sweet, fruity undertones and notes of mango and balsam.
Some studies on animals have found myrcene can act as a muscle relaxant, pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, and sedative in rodents, but studies are needed to confirm that humans can also benefit from these effects.
Nerolidol
Nerolidol, or trans-nerolidol, is a terpene found in many strong aromatic plants such as jasmine, tea tree, and
lemongrass, and it can also be found in some cannabis strains. It’s known for a nuanced floral aroma with notes of citrus, apples, and rose, and is often used as a fragrance or food additive. Researchers have also found evidence that nerolidol has sedative, anti-anxiety, antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, antioxidant, and pain-relieving properties, and may be an insect repellent.
Ocimene
Ocimene is a common terpene found in some types of cannabis, as well as in a wide variety of other plants, such as mint, parsley, pepper, basil, mangoes, orchids, and kumquats. Typically recognized for its sweet, fragrant, herbaceous, and woodsy notes, this terpene often functions to help plants defend themselves in their natural environment. It also has been found to play a role in attracting pollinators to different flowers.
Phellandrene
Phellandrene is a terpene found in cannabis and other plants such as eucalyptus. This little-known compound is a pair of organic compounds—alpha-phellandrene and beta-phellandrene. The scent of phellandrene has often been described as woody and minty, with prevailing notes of citrus. Phellandrene is a secondary terpene in cannabis, meaning it appears in trace levels that are difficult to detect. It is found in higher-than-usual concentrations in select cannabis cultivars such as Jack Herer, Trainwreck, and Ace of Spades.
Phytol
Phytol is a terpene found in some strains of cannabis, as well as other plants such as green tea. Phytol is known for its grassy aroma and is often used as a precursor in the manufacturing of synthetic vitamins E and K1, and as a food additive. There is some evidence it can be used therapeutically for reducing inflammation, pain, and anxiety, and it may also be helpful as an antioxidant and antitumor agent, as well as a sedative and anticonvulsant.
Pinene
Pinene is a terpene shown to have a wide variety of benefits and is the most abundant terpene found in nature. Two popular variations of pinene found in cannabis (as well as in the needles of pine trees and a range of herbs and spices) are alpha-pine and beta-pinene. The only difference between the two compounds is the base molecule’s particular class of chemicals (alkene).
Therapeutic properties of pinene include anti-inflammatory effects, neurological support and antimicrobial activity. Pinene has nootropic benefits by improving blood flow to the brain and blocking an enzyme known as acetylcholinesterase.
As its name suggests, pinene smells like a pine forest.
Pulegone
Pulegone is a monoterpene found in many plants, such as peppermint and catnip, and it is the main constituent of pennyroyal and blue mint bush essential oils. Known for its sweet and minty aroma, it can also be found in small amounts in some cannabis strains. While there isn’t a lot of research on pulegone specifically, what there is points to potential anxiety-relieving effects, increased cognitive performance, and sedative properties.
Sabinene
Sabinene is a terpene with a peppery and citrus aroma produced by cannabis plants and numerous other floras, including Norway spruce, Holm oak trees, black pepper, cardamom, and carrot seeds. Sabinene only appears in small amounts in some cannabis strains and has shown promise for anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.
Sesquiterpenes
Sesquiterpenes are a class of terpenes that consist of three isoprene units and often have the molecular formula C15H24. Like monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes may be cyclic or contain rings, including many unique combinations. Biochemical modifications such as oxidation or rearrangement produce the related sesquiterpenoids.
Sesquiterpenes are found naturally in plants and insects, as semiochemicals, e.g. defensive agents or pheromones.
Terpinene
Known for its piney aroma, this terpene is found in the essential oils of plants like tea tree and peppermint and is also found in some strains of cannabis. There is some evidence that terpinene can be used as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer agent.
Terpinolene
Terpinolene, or alpha-terpinolene, is a common terpene found in small quantities in cannabis plants. It includes hints of citrus, wood, floral, and pine flavors, and strains with high amounts of terpinolene often produce uplifting effects when consumed. Terpinolene is also found in apples, lilac, nutmeg, and cumin.
Triterpenes
Triterpenes are a class of chemical compounds composed of three terpene units with the molecular formula C30H48; they may also be thought of as consisting of six isoprene units and having thirty carbon atoms. Animals, plants and fungi all produce triterpenes, including squalene, the precursor to all steroids. Triterpenes are relatively rare.
Valencene
Valencene is a terpene that can be found in small amounts in some cannabis strains, and has the aroma of sweet orange, fresh herbs, or freshly cut wood. It is commonly found in Valencia oranges, for which it is named. Valencene has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic properties.
Valencene can also be used as an insecticide.
1Sources:
Leafly – An invaluable source of information and much of what is on this page was directly taken from
Leafly’s glossary of terms.
CERESMED—From a series of articles
