10 Common Terpenes In Cannabis And How They Shape Your High

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 10 of the most common terpenes found in cannabis, including their effects, therapeutic benefits, and how they might shape your high.

1. Myrcene: The Relaxer

Characteristics And Aroma

Myrcene is one of the most prevalent terpenes in cannabis, often accounting for more than 20% of the terpene profile in certain strains. Its scent can be described as earthy and musky, with hints of fruit or cloves. Myrcene is also present in plants like lemongrass, thyme, and hops.

Effects On The High

Myrcene is known for its sedative and relaxing effects, often associated with the "couch-lock" feeling in Indica-dominant strains. It tends to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and induce sleepiness. If you're seeking a strain for a mellow, calming experience, look for one rich in myrcene.

Therapeutic Benefits

Myrcene has been shown to have various therapeutic properties, including:

• Anti-inflammatory

• Analgesic (pain relief)

• Sedative

• Muscle relaxant

People suffering from insomnia, chronic pain, or stress-related disorders may benefit from strains with a high myrcene content.

Strains High In Myrcene

• OG Kush

• Granddaddy Purple

• Blue Dream

• Northern Lights

2. Limonene: The Uplifter

Characteristics And Aroma

Limonene is a citrus-scented terpene found not only in cannabis but also in citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges. Its bright, fresh, and zesty aroma is hard to miss.

Effects On The High

Limonene tends to have uplifting and energizing effects. It can make you feel more focused and euphoric, making it ideal for daytime use. Its ability to elevate mood means it's often found in Sativa-dominant strains.

Therapeutic Benefits

Research indicates that limonene has several medicinal properties, including:

• Antidepressant

• Anti-anxiety

• Immunostimulant

• Antibacterial

Strains rich in limonene are frequently used by individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as for enhancing cognitive performance.

Strains High In Limonene

• Super Lemon Haze

• Jack Herer

• Durban Poison

• Wedding Cake

3. Linalool: The Calmer

Characteristics And Aroma

Linalool is known for its floral, lavender-like scent. It is also found in lavender, mint, cinnamon, and coriander. This terpene is often associated with relaxation and calmness.

Effects On The High

Linalool is typically present in strains that are known for their calming effects. It can help reduce anxiety, stress, and even mild pain. Strains high in linalool are often recommended for those looking to unwind or sleep. It helps balance the psychoactive effects of THC, promoting a more relaxed, serene high.

Therapeutic Benefits

Linalool’s potential therapeutic benefits include:

• Anti-anxiety

• Anti-inflammatory

• Analgesic

• Antimicrobial

People who suffer from anxiety disorders, arthritis, or even infections may find linalool-dominant strains beneficial.

Strains High In Linalool

• Amnesia Haze

• Lavender

• LA Confidential

• Pink Kush

4. Pinene: The Focus Enhancer

Characteristics And Aroma

Pinene, as the name suggests, has a pine-like aroma and is also found in pine needles, rosemary, basil, and parsley. This terpene comes in two structural forms: alpha-pinene and beta-pinene, with alpha-pinene being the most common in cannabis.

Effects On The High

Pinene is often noted for its cognitive-enhancing effects. It can improve focus, clarity, and memory, counteracting some of the short-term memory impairments caused by THC. Strains rich in pinene are great for daytime use, especially when you need to stay alert and focused.

Therapeutic Benefits

Pinene's potential therapeutic benefits include:

• Bronchodilator (helps open airways)

• Anti-inflammatory

• Memory retention

Pinene has been studied for its potential to help with conditions such as asthma, cognitive dysfunction, and arthritis. Its bronchodilator effect can also make it useful for people with respiratory issues.

Strains High In Pinene

• Jack Herer

• Blue Dream

• OG Kush

• Bubba Kush

5. Caryophyllene: The Body Soother

Characteristics And Aroma

Caryophyllene has a spicy, peppery scent reminiscent of cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper. It’s also found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. Caryophyllene is unique because it can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system directly, which is unusual for terpenes.

Effects On The High

Caryophyllene is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. It can provide a calming, body-centered experience, often making it ideal for individuals suffering from chronic pain or inflammation.

Therapeutic Benefits

Caryophyllene has been shown to have various health benefits, including:

• Anti-inflammatory

• Analgesic

• Anti-anxiety

• Antioxidant

Because of its ability to interact directly with CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, caryophyllene is particularly effective at reducing pain and inflammation. It’s also being studied for its potential role in treating anxiety, depression, and even addiction.

Strains High In Caryophyllene

• Girl Scout Cookies

• Gelato

• Sour Diesel

• Bubba Kush

6. Terpinolene: The Multi-Tasker

Characteristics And Aroma

Terpinolene has a complex aroma that’s fresh, piney, floral, and herbal all at once. It's a less common terpene in cannabis but can still be found in certain strains. Terpinolene is also present in nutmeg, tea tree oil, and lilacs.

Effects On The High

Terpinolene is somewhat of a jack-of-all-trades in the terpene world. It can have both sedative and uplifting effects depending on the strain and the cannabinoid profile it’s paired with. It's often present in Sativa-dominant strains, giving a slight energy boost and enhanced creativity, but it can also contribute to calming, relaxing effects.

Therapeutic Benefits

Terpinolene has demonstrated a variety of potential therapeutic uses, including:

• Antioxidant

• Sedative

• Antibacterial

• Antifungal

Because of its versatile nature, terpinolene-rich strains can be used for a variety of therapeutic purposes, ranging from anxiety and stress relief to antibacterial and antifungal applications.

Strains High In Terpinolene

• Jack Herer

• Ghost Train Haze

• Golden Goat

• XJ-13

7. Humulene: The Appetite Suppressant

Characteristics And Aroma

Humulene has an earthy, woody aroma, often reminiscent of hops (where it's also found), as well as cloves and basil. This terpene has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Chinese medicine.

Effects On The High

Interestingly, humulene has been found to have appetite-suppressing properties, which is quite unique for a cannabis terpene. It is often included in strains that provide focused, clear-headed effects rather than a heavy, stoned feeling.

Therapeutic Benefits

Humulene’s health benefits include:

• Anti-inflammatory

• Appetite suppressant

• Analgesic

• Antibacterial

This terpene may be helpful for those looking to manage their appetite or those suffering from conditions like arthritis or other inflammatory diseases.

Strains High In Humulene

• Girl Scout Cookies

• Sour Diesel

• White Widow

• Headband

8. Ocimene: The Sweet And Uplifting

Characteristics And Aroma

Ocimene has a sweet, herbal, and citrusy aroma. It’s commonly found in mint, parsley, orchids, and even mangoes. Its sweet scent makes it a popular terpene for aromatherapy and perfumery as well.

Effects On The High

Ocimene is usually associated with uplifting and energetic effects, making it ideal for those seeking a burst of creativity or focus. It's often found in Sativa-dominant strains and helps combat feelings of lethargy or fatigue.

Therapeutic Benefits

Ocimene’s potential therapeutic benefits include:

• Antiviral

• Antifungal

• Antibacterial

• Decongestant

Some research suggests that ocimene could be helpful for managing respiratory conditions and combating infections, although more research is needed to fully understand its therapeutic potential.

Strains High In Ocimene

• Strawberry Cough

• Lemon Sour Diesel

• Golden Pineapple

• Amnesia

9. Bisabolol: The Skin Soother

Characteristics And Aroma

Bisabolol, also known as alpha-bisabolol, has a subtle floral aroma with hints of sweet and woody undertones. It’s also found in chamomile and the candeia tree, and has been used in cosmetics and skincare products for its soothing properties.

Effects On The High

Though not commonly discussed in terms of its effects on the high, bisabolol is often present in strains known for their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects. It provides a calming, gentle experience that can be ideal for people dealing with stress or skin irritation.

Therapeutic Benefits

Bisabolol offers a range of medicinal properties, including:

• Anti-inflammatory

• Analgesic

• Antioxidant

• Antimicrobial

Because of its calming effects, bisabolol is used in strains aimed at reducing inflammation and soothing irritation, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema.

Strains High In Bisabolol

• Pink Kush

• Headband

• ACDC

• Harle-Tsu

10. Eucalyptol: The Breath Of Fresh Air

Characteristics And Aroma

Eucalyptol, as the name suggests, is found in eucalyptus and has a minty, cooling scent. It’s also present in rosemary, sage, and tea trees. Though it's less common in cannabis compared to other terpenes, it still plays an essential role in shaping the experience of certain strains.

Effects On The High

Eucalyptol is typically associated with clarity and focus, giving strains that contain it a refreshing, invigorating quality. It’s not sedative or overly energizing, making it a balanced terpene for those who want a clear-headed, focused high.

Therapeutic Benefits

Eucalyptol offers several potential therapeutic benefits, including:

• Anti-inflammatory

• Antibacterial

• Antifungal

• Decongestant

Due to its ability to help open airways and reduce congestion, eucalyptol is often used in therapeutic cannabis strains aimed at treating respiratory issues.

Strains High In Eucalyptol

• Super Silver Haze

• Bubba Kush

• ACDC

• Girl Scout Cookies

Conclusion

Terpenes are a fascinating and essential aspect of cannabis that contribute to the plant’s unique effects and therapeutic potential. By understanding the specific terpenes present in a strain, you can better predict how that strain might affect your high and which therapeutic benefits you might experience. From the relaxing, sedative properties of myrcene to the uplifting and energizing effects of limonene, each terpene shapes your cannabis experience in its own distinct way.

Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety, pain, or simply looking for an enhanced recreational experience, knowing which terpenes are dominant in a strain can help you make more informed choices about which cannabis strains are right for you.