Like many plants, non-medical cannabis contains aroma compounds (terpenes) that feature a range of scents from floral and piney to earthy, musky, fruity, and spicy. This month, our featured terpenes have citrus aromas.

Terpenes are chemicals that are created and stored in the trichomes of the cannabis plant, along with cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabiniol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

Cannabis consumers have indicated that the type of terpene found in different strains can be associated with various effects. The exact effects of terpenes on their own, and within cannabis, are the subject of ongoing research and remain undetermined, however citrus scented terpenes are generally thought to be uplifting and refreshing.

Remember, what works for others may not work for you. Educating yourself and cautious experimentation will help you find your way.

Some terpenes present as a citrusy aroma – the most prevalent citrus scented terpene found in cannabis and citrus fruit is limonene, which is thought to have an uplifting effect for some people. It is also found in citrus rinds, juniper, peppermint, and rosemary. Limonene is the second-most common terpene in nature (pinene being the first) and, unsurprisingly, its aroma features notes of lemon and orange.

Valencene is thought of by some people as a zesty terpene, which has woody and citrusy aromas. It takes its name from the Valencia oranges where it is most commonly found. Valencene is also found in cannabis and other citrus fruit such as grapefruit.

Other terpenes may be predominantly spicy, herbal, or earthy but also contain citrus notes. Sabinene is considered to be a rousing terpene for some people, and has a citrusy, spicy, piney aroma. It is found in black pepper, basil, and spruce. Fenchol is thought of by some people as a restorative, bitter yet floral, lime-like terpene that is also found in fennel and basil, helping to give the latter its distinctive aroma. Humulene is considered to have a motivating effect for some people and is found in hops, coriander, cloves, and basil—its aroma presents as woodsy and earthy with citrus overtones.

Shop our curated collection of citrus-scented terpene products online.