Cannabis Terpenes 101
Terpenes are chemicals that are created and stored in the trichomes of the cannabis plant, along with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Terpenes contribute to the distinctive aromas of cannabis. While some consumers associate certain aromas with particular experiences, individual experiences vary, and the effects of terpenes on their own, and within cannabis, are not fully understood. The following descriptions highlight common terpene aromas and may help you navigate our product assortment.
Remember, what works for others may not work for you. Educating yourself and cautious experimentation will help you find your way and make informed decisions.
Bisabolol
Bisabolol is a terpene with delicate floral, peppery, and nutty aromas. Its aroma profile is often described as comforting. It is found naturally in the bark of the candeia tree and in chamomile.
Borneol
Borneol is a terpene with minty and spicy notes. These aromas are frequently associated with invigorating qualities. It is found in aromatic herbs including rosemary, mint, ginger, mugwort, tarragon, camphor, and wormwood.
Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is a terpene common in basil, oregano, hops, and rosemary, as well as spices such as cloves, caraway, black pepper, and cinnamon. Its spicy and peppery aroma profile is sometimes described as balancing.
Cymene
Cymene is a terpene with woody, spicy, and citrus notes. Some people associate these aromas with centring qualities. It is found in herbs and spices such as coriander, oregano, thyme, and cumin.
Eucalyptol
Eucalyptol (or cineol) is a terpene with a cooling, minty aroma that is often characterized as revitalizing. It is found naturally in bay leaves, tea trees, and eucalyptus trees.
Fenchol
Fenchol is a terpene with bitter, piney, floral, and lime-like aromas. Its scent profile is sometimes associated with restorative qualities. It is found in fennel and basil.
Geraniol
Geraniol is a terpene naturally produced in geranium flowers, tobacco, and lemons. Its floral, waxy, and fruity aromas are often compared to citronella and may be perceived as relaxing.
Humulene
Humulene is a terpene found in hops, coriander, cloves, and basil, among other plants. Its woodsy and earthy aroma with citrus overtones is sometimes associated with motivating qualities.
Limonene
Limonene is a terpene found in citrus rinds, juniper, peppermint, cannabis, and rosemary. Its aroma is characterized by notes of lemon and orange, aromas often described as uplifting. Limonene is the second most common terpene in nature.
Linalool
Linalool is a terpene present in lavender, laurel, mint, birch trees, and rosewood. Its floral aroma is commonly associated with calming qualities.
Myrcene
Myrcene is a terpene found in mangoes, wild thyme, hops, lemongrass, bay leaves, and citrus fruits. Its earthy and musky aroma profile is sometimes described as mellowing. Myrcene is also the most common terpene in cannabis.
Ocimene
Ocimene is a terpene with sweet, tropical, floral, and woody notes. These aromas are often associated with purifying qualities.
Pinene
Pinene is a terpene found in pine needles, orange peels, parsley, dill, and sage. It is the most common terpene in the world and is known for its fresh pine and woody aromas, which many people associate with energizing qualities.
Terpineol
Terpineol is found in pine trees, lilac trees, cannabis, eucalyptus leaves, sap, and lime blossoms. It contributes to some of the flavours associated with lapsang souchong tea and is characterized by floral and pine-like aromas that are sometimes described as refreshing.
Terpinolene
Terpinolene is a terpene with piney, floral, and herbal aromas. Its scent profile is often associated with cleansing qualities.
While BC Cannabis Stores has highlighted a number of common terpenes, there are up to 200 others that may be present in cannabis products in small amounts. Others may include: bergamotene, cymenene, elemene, eudesmol, guaiol, nerolidol, phellandrene, santalene, selinadiene, and ylangene.
Wondering which terpenes are citrusy, spicy, woodsy, etc.? Check out our terpene wheel.
Myth vs Fact
Fact: Cannabis products can have a range of concentrations and affect you in different ways. If you are trying cannabis for the first time, do it in a safe place with people you trust. Health Canada recommends starting with a small amount of a product that is low in THC with higher levels of CBD.
