Terpene Education
Terpenes are natural compounds found in every type of plant—and even in many animals. These remarkable molecules have played a vital role in the evolution of life, offering a range of benefits that include anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antifungal, and antispasmodic properties. Terpenes contribute to plants' distinctive scents and flavors while supporting essential processes in our internal biochemistry.
Myrcene
Common Sources: Mangoes, lemongrass, hops, basil, thyme.
Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis and is known for its earthy, musky aroma with hints of cloves. It has sedative effects and can enhance the absorption of cannabinoids in the body, which may amplify the effects of THC. Myrcene interacts with our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), and it’s also thought to produce muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory effects by influencing specific receptors related to pain and inflammation.
Limonene
Common Sources: Citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, limes), juniper, peppermint, rosemary.
Known for its bright citrus scent, limonene is commonly found in citrus fruits and certain cannabis strains. It can elevate mood, reduce stress, and is thought to enhance the bioavailability of other terpenes and cannabinoids, making the body more receptive to their effects. Limonene has been shown to interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, which may explain its mood-boosting effects, and it also supports the immune system through its antimicrobial properties.
Linalool
Common Sources: Lavender, mint, cinnamon, birch bark, coriander.
Linalool, with its floral, lavender-like aroma, is known for its calming and relaxing effects. This terpene interacts with our body’s neurotransmitter system, particularly the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, which help reduce anxiety and stress by promoting a calming effect on the nervous system. Linalool also exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it useful in addressing pain and muscle tension.
Pinene
Common Sources: Pine trees, rosemary, basil, dill, parsley.
As the name suggests, pinene has a pine-like aroma and is one of the most widely found terpenes in nature. In the body, pinene acts as a bronchodilator, which can improve airflow to the lungs and may ease respiratory conditions. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and interacts with neurotransmitters that support memory retention and alertness, potentially countering some of the memory-impairing effects of THC.
Caryophyllene
Common Sources: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, basil, oregano.
Caryophyllene has a spicy, peppery scent and is the only terpene known to directly activate CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, giving it a unique role among terpenes. By binding to CB2 receptors, caryophyllene can produce anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which may help with pain and inflammation without producing psychoactive effects. This terpene’s interaction with CB2 receptors also suggests a role in reducing stress and protecting cells against oxidative stress.
Humulene
Common Sources: Hops, basil, cloves, black pepper, sage.
With an earthy, woody aroma, humulene is also present in hops and is known for its anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressing properties. Humulene is believed to inhibit certain pathways in the body that trigger inflammatory responses, making it beneficial for conditions involving chronic inflammation. Additionally, it has shown potential in reducing appetite, which could offer a counterbalance to the appetite-stimulating effects of THC in cannabis.
Terpinolene
Common Sources: Lilacs, nutmeg, cumin, apples, tea tree.
Terpinolene is a multi-faceted terpene with a fresh, herbaceous scent that’s both floral and piney. Known for its sedative and antioxidant properties, it works with other cannabinoids and terpenes to create relaxing, soothing effects in the body. Terpinolene is thought to exhibit mild antibacterial and antifungal activity, potentially supporting the body’s natural defenses.
Ocimene
Common Sources: Mint, basil, parsley, orchids, mangoes.
Ocimene has a sweet, herbal aroma and is known for its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Although less studied than other terpenes, ocimene may help protect cells by interacting with various enzymes and pathways involved in immune responses. Its presence is also associated with uplifting and energizing effects, adding balance to some of the more sedative terpenes in cannabis strains.
Bisabolol
Common Sources: Chamomile, candeia tree (in Brazil), sage, lavender.
Bisabolol has a delicate floral aroma similar to chamomile and is known for its skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It interacts with the body by reducing inflammatory responses in cells, making it potentially beneficial for skin conditions and inflammation-related pain. Additionally, bisabolol has mild antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, supporting skin health and cellular protection.
Guaiol
Common Sources: Cypress pine, guaiacum trees, tea tree, juniper.
Guaiol has a woody, pine-like scent and is commonly found in pine trees as well as cannabis. This terpene is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, interacting with pathways in the immune system to potentially reduce infection and inflammation. Guaiol may also have mild analgesic properties, contributing to pain relief when used in combination with other cannabinoids and terpenes.
Camphene
Common Sources: Fir needles, rosemary, nutmeg, ginger.
With an earthy, fir-like scent, camphene is similar in aroma to pinene and is notable for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It interacts with the body’s inflammatory pathways to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which may be useful for heart and respiratory health. Camphene’s strong antioxidant activity also aids in protecting cells from free radical damage, offering benefits for general wellness.
Valencene
Common Sources: Oranges, grapefruits, tangerines.
Valencene is known for its sweet, citrusy aroma and is also found in oranges and other citrus fruits. It has potential anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and insect-repellent properties, interacting with immune system pathways that support cell protection and allergy reduction. This terpene may also have energizing effects, enhancing alertness and focus, which can complement the effects of other cannabinoids.
Eucalyptol
Common Sources: Eucalyptus, bay leaves, tea tree, basil, sage.
Eucalyptol has a fresh, minty aroma and is present in eucalyptus as well as certain cannabis strains. Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, it interacts with the respiratory and immune systems to reduce inflammation and support respiratory health. Eucalyptol is also believed to enhance mental clarity and focus, making it a useful terpene for daytime use.