Terpenes 101

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including hemp and cannabis. They give each strain its unique scent and may contribute to the overall effects of CBD products through what is known as the entourage effect. Here is a guide to some of the most common terpenes.

Bisabolol

Also known as Levomenol or alpha-Bisabolol, this is a sesquiterpene with a warm floral fragrance similar to honey, apples, and chamomile.

Aroma: Subtle sweet fruity-floral scent reminiscent of apples, honey, or chamomile with citrus, tangy notes.

Effects: It has a range of potential benefits, including potent anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties with analgesic effects. It is used in the cosmetics industry for being a great natural panthenol source and having anti-aging, anti-irritant, and skin healing properties that help with wound healing.

Borneol

Borneol is a bicyclic monoterpene, considered a staple of Asian traditional medicine due to its array of therapeutic effects. It can be found in rosemary, mint, and camphor.

Aroma: Calming minty herbal, woody, camphor-like aroma with earthy undertones.

Effects: Facilitates digestion, improves cardiovascular health, treats bronchial symptoms, helps the body heal wounds, soothes the skin, promotes relaxation, and acts as an effective anti-inflammatory and pain reliever.

Camphene

A bicyclic monoterpene once used as fuel for lamps in the 19th century. Found in camphor, citronella, ginger, lavender, pine, and fir trees.

Aroma: Earthy scent enriched with notes of citrus and mint. Woodsy undertones reminiscent of fir needles.

Effects: Studies show potential for lowering cholesterol and triglycerides. Also demonstrates antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Caryophyllene

Also called beta-caryophyllene, this is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis. Found in black pepper, cloves, hops, and cinnamon.

Aroma: Spicy, peppery, woody aroma.

Effects: Unique among terpenes because it can directly activate the CB2 cannabinoid receptor. Known for anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. May help with anxiety and pain management.

Eucalyptol

Also known as 1,8-cineole. The primary terpene of the eucalyptus tree, also found in tea tree, mugwort, bay leaves, and sage.

Aroma: Cool, refreshing minty scent with a hint of spice.

Effects: Used as an insect repellent, in cooking, and in traditional medicine. Known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antibacterial properties.

Geraniol

Found in many flowers, fruits, and vegetables including roses, citronella, and geraniums.

Aroma: Sweet, floral, rose-like scent with hints of citrus.

Effects: Acts as a natural insect repellent. Studies suggest potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties.

Humulene

One of the major terpenes found in hops. Also present in basil, cloves, and coriander.

Aroma: Earthy, woody, herbal aroma.

Effects: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies suggest it may act as an appetite suppressant and have antibacterial effects.

Limonene

The second most common terpene in nature. Found in citrus rinds, juniper, rosemary, and peppermint.

Aroma: Bright, fresh citrus scent.

Effects: Known mood-elevating and stress-relieving properties. Also shows antifungal and antibacterial effects. May improve absorption of other terpenes and chemicals through the skin and mucous membranes.

Linalool

Found in over 200 plants including lavender, mint, and cinnamon.

Aroma: Floral, slightly spicy aroma associated with lavender.

Effects: Best known for its calming and sedative effects. Used in aromatherapy for stress and anxiety relief. Also shows anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Myrcene

The most common terpene found in cannabis. Also present in mangoes, hops, thyme, and lemongrass.

Aroma: Earthy, musky, herbal aroma with hints of fruit.

Effects: Known for its sedative and relaxing effects. May enhance the absorption of cannabinoids and has shown anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Pinene

The most common terpene found in nature. Found in pine needles, rosemary, basil, and dill.

Aroma: Fresh pine forest scent.

Effects: Known as a bronchodilator (helps open airways). Also shows anti-inflammatory and memory-enhancing effects. May counteract some of the short-term memory impairment associated with THC.

Terpinolene

Found in nutmeg, tea tree, conifers, apples, cumin, and lilacs.

Aroma: Fresh, piney, floral, herbaceous scent.

Effects: Known for antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Some studies suggest sedative and calming effects.