Terpenes 101: What They Are and How They Work

When you open a jar of cannabis and take in that burst of aroma (citrusy, earthy, or floral), you’re smelling terpenes. These naturally occurring compounds are what make different strains of cannabis smell and taste unique. Beyond their sensory appeal, terpenes may also work with cannabinoids like CBD and THC to create therapeutic effects through what’s known as the entourage effect.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in plants (and some animals). They’re responsible for many of the smells, flavors, and colors in nature; from the scent of pine trees to the zest of citrus fruit.

You can find terpenes in everyday plants like:

• Sage

• Thyme

• Lemons and oranges

• Cannabis

In addition to their natural presence, terpenes are used in many commercial products, such as essential oils, cleaning solvents, dyes, and natural pesticides. Some terpenes also show potential therapeutic properties in early research.

How Do Terpenes Work?

In plants, terpenes help protect against harsh weather and predators. In humans, their role is less clear, but scientists believe terpenes interact with the endocannabinoid system and other neurotransmitter systems in the brain.

Researchers and consumers now use terpene profiles to classify cannabis strains and predict their effects. Two cannabis strains with identical THC levels can produce completely different results because of their terpene composition.

The Entourage Effect: Terpenes, THC, and CBD

Terpenes, THC, and CBD don’t work in isolation. Together, they may produce what’s known as the entourage effect, the theory that cannabis compounds work synergistically to enhance each other’s effects.

What Research Says:

• A 2010 study found that combining CBD and THC was more effective for pain management than THC alone.

• A 2018 study on breast cancer cells showed that a full cannabis extract had stronger effects than isolated THC, though researchers attributed this mainly to other cannabinoids.
  

If you’re using CBD and not seeing results, it might be worth trying a full-spectrum product that includes terpenes and minor cannabinoids to maximize potential benefits.

Are Terpenes Psychoactive?

Terpenes won’t get you high, but they can influence your experience. Some are considered mildly psychoactive because they can affect the brain and may modify how THC feels.

Many experts suggest focusing less on THC percentage and more on terpene profiles when choosing a strain. The right terpene balance might help you achieve relaxation, energy, or focus, depending on your goals.

Preliminary research even suggests that some terpenes may help with anxiety, depression, and mood balance.

Common Terpenes and Their Effects

Here are a few well-studied terpenes and their potential benefits:

Terpene	Common Sources	Possible Effects
Beta-Caryophyllene	Cloves, rosemary, hops	May help reduce anxiety and depression
Beta-Pinene	Pine needles, basil	Potential antidepressant and anticancer effects
Humulene	Ginseng, hops	Energizing and anti-inflammatory
Limonene	Citrus fruits	May relieve stress and boost mood
Linalool	Lavender	Potential anti-anxiety and relaxing effects
Myrcene	Mango, thyme	Sedating, antifungal, and antibacterial

Note: Research on terpenes is still in its early stages, and high-quality human studies are needed.

How to Maximize the Benefits of Terpenes

To get the most from your terpene experience, keep these tips in mind:

1. Read the label: Look for lab-tested products that list terpene profiles and concentrations (often around 2%).

2. Check for freshness: Terpenes degrade over time. Choose products with recent packaging dates and strong aromas.

3. Use caution with oils and vapes: Some vape products contain synthetic terpenes, which may not have the same effects, and could even be harmful when heated.

4. Avoid high heat: Excessive heat (like dabbing) can degrade terpenes and create unwanted byproducts. Try vaporizing at lower temperatures or consuming edibles instead.

5. Keep a journal: Track the terpene profiles, methods, and effects you experience to identify what works best for your body.
   

Terpenes do more than make cannabis smell good, they may influence how it feels and interacts with your body. While research is still emerging, understanding terpene profiles can help you make more informed choices about your cannabis experience.

Your personal reaction will depend on your body chemistry, prior cannabis use, and environment, but experimenting with different terpene combinations can help you find the balance that fits you best.

Ready to explore the world of terpenes? Discover the difference that full-spectrum cannabis can make. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, focus, or pain relief, finding the right terpene profile could be the key to your ideal experience.