Ultimate List of Terpenes and Terpene Benefits

Cannabis terpenes are aromatic compounds found in the cannabis plant that contribute to its unique smell, flavor, and effects.

Terpenes play a crucial role in the overall experience and potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis.

They can interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to produce what is known as the “entourage effect,” where the combined effects of cannabinoids and terpenes are greater than the effects of each compound individually.

This is why full-spectrum products are becoming increasingly popular and preferred above isolates and distillates.

What Are Terpenes?

Simply put, terpenes are the fragrant oils that cannabis and other plants naturally possess that define their aromas and flavors.

They’re what give Lemon Skunk its distinctive citrusy funk and Chem Dawg its pungent diesel-fuel properties.

Each strain is different, and terpenes are the most obvious element that set them apart.

Terpenes are found in many other plants as well. Do you love the smell of fresh basil? Yep, you can thank terpenes for basil’s enticing fragrance.

Cannabis terpenes are most strongly detected in mature, unfertilized (unseeded) flower.

Unfortunately, these terpenes can degrade easily in cured flowers through improper storage, handling, and exposure to light.

Any discussion about terpenes should also touch on cannabinoids. Terpenes and cannabinoids (including THC and CBD) both contribute to the effect of cannabis when consumed.

Both bind with receptors in the brain to produce an overall effect on our bodies—including the euphoric high most people seek from the cannabis experience.

The medicinal benefit from the interactions of terpenes and cannabinoids warrants continued study.

Some cannabis patients favor the results of whole cannabis (flower) therapy over synthetic or cannabis concentrates, such as distillates, which remove natural terpenes.

Suffice it to say that the cannabinoid/terpene relationship is both fascinating and complex, but terpenes alone will be the focus here—and there’s plenty to discuss.

Although cannabis contains more than 140 types of terpenes, only about a dozen are common, and we’ll focus on the most relevant of those.

How Do Terpenes Work?

Terpenes produce their therapeutic benefits by interacting with the endocannabinoid system.

In 1988, two cannabis scientists―S. Ben-Shabat and Raphael Mechoulam―discovered that cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids can work together to create a synergistic healing effect.

Simply put, when you consume a cannabis extract that is full-spectrum you are likely to experience a healing effect that is stronger and will last for a longer time through an effect of symbiosis.

In a nutshell, we experience the healing benefits of terpenes through the entourage effect.

List of Primary Terpenes in Cannabis

1. Myrcene

This is the most abundant terpene in cannabis and may make up as much as 65% of the total terpene profile in some strains.

It produces earthy or musky notes, similar to cloves. Myrcene helps to reduce inflammation and chronic pain and may be included in cancer treatment.

It is believed that eating a mango about 45 minutes before smoking weed will produce a stronger mental buzz. Mangoes are rich in myrcene and this may help to boost the effect of THC.

Myrcene is the most common terpene produced by cannabis and is also found in many other plant species.

If you favor musky, earthy, skunky indicas like Northern Lights, you most likely appreciate myrcene and its couch-lock “I’m in for the evening” effects.

Cannabis strains that contain 0.5% or more myrcene are those that produce the sedative, deeply relaxing qualities many medical and recreational cannabis consumers enjoy.

So, if your evening plans are no more ambitious than a pizza delivery and binge-watching Invader Zim, a heady indica rich in myrcene may be right up your alley.

2. Limonene

This is the second most abundant terpene in cannabis.

It is also found in high amounts in the rind of citrus fruits such as oranges and tangerines.

It is commonly used in the manufacturing of cleaning products and cosmetics.

Limonene is a mood-enhancer often used in aromatherapy. It also has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Recent studies have revealed that this terpene may have a role to play in reducing tumor size.

Limonene is a terpene derived from pinene, and, like pinene, its name is a giveaway for what it smells like—lemons!

Cannabis varieties like Super Lemon Haze are high in limonene. Consuming these strains promotes a general uplift in mood and attitude.

This citrusy terpene is the major component in citrus fruit rinds, rosemary, juniper, and peppermint, as well as in several pine needle oils.

Plants use limonene as a natural insecticide.

Limonene is valued for its powerful antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which is why it's commonly used in cleaning products and detergents, not just for its fresh, citrusy scent, but also for its ability to help eliminate germs.

Limonene may offer several important health benefits, including cancer prevention, immune system support, improved gallbladder function, relief from indigestion, reduced anxiety and insomnia, and protection against fatty liver and insulin resistance in individuals with diabetes.

There also are indications that limonene may help prevent Alzheimer’s Disease and help treat Crohn’s, irritable bowel syndrome, and fibromyalgia.

3. Linalool

Linalool is responsible for the floral notes in cannabis. It is also common in lavender and aromatic herbs.

Linalool can promote calming, relaxing effects.

Linalool has been used for centuries as a sleep aid and is widely known to reduce stress.

Found in strains like Lavender and Skywalker OG, linalool is also used to relieve seizure symptoms and provide relief to those suffering from psychosis.

Linalool lessens the anxious emotions sometimes provoked by THC, thus making it helpful in anxiety treatment.

Studies also suggest that linalool boosts the immune system.

It has a distinctive aroma that many people quickly relate to the smell of marijuana. This terpene is colorless or a pale shade of yellow.

It is found in many commercial products like perfumes, shampoos, cleansers, detergents, and soaps.

It also is present in some insect repellants and is known to repel fleas, mosquitoes, and cockroaches.

Studies on mice suggest that linalool may reduce anxiety and panic-related behavior, and there is ample anecdotal evidence indicating it may have similar calming effects in humans.

Linalool is also known for its analgesic properties, so many of the strains that contain it are known for their pain-relieving effects.

Linalool is known to elevate the levels of adenosine, an inhibitory brain chemical known to block pain.

One study that exposed patients to linalool-rich lavender oil showed great promise for linalool’s pain-killing properties. Patients received enough pain relief that they were able to forego use of traditional pain killers—namely opioid drugs.

Linalool has also shown promise for improving memory. The uses for this terpene in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease has not been widely studied, but the research conducted so far indicate it has promising potential for this incurable condition.

4. Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene has a strong spicy aroma and is common in black pepper, cinnamon, and spices such as oregano, basil, and rosemary.

Caryophyllene is the only terpene that binds to CB2 receptors.

It is commonly used in topical creams as an anti-inflammatory agent. Besides this, it has shown promise in alcohol addiction rehabilitation.

In addition to its presence in cannabis, beta-caryophyllene is found in many plants, such as Thai basil, cloves, cinnamon leaves, and black pepper.

This terpene’s aroma is peppery, woody, and/or spicy.

Strains like AK-47, Girl Scout Cookies, and White Widow contain caryophyllene.

Like limonene, studies show β– caryophyllene holds promise in effective cancer treatment.

5. Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene

Pinene terpenes have the aroma of pine trees.

They produce anti-inflammatory effects in humans also, they help to improve airflow in the lungs and respiratory function. They also inhibit memory loss related to the excessive use of THC.

As its name implies, pinene is a terpene known for its pine and fir aroma. This terpene occurs in pine and other coniferous (and some non-coniferous) plants, balsamic resin, and some citrus fruits.

Pinene is used in medicine as an anti-inflammatory, expectorant, bronchodilator, and local antiseptic.

Although found in cannabis, scientific indications suggest that high levels of pinene may actually lower the effects of THC.

Some excellent varieties of cannabis contain this terpene. Sativa-dominant strains like Blue Dream and Jack Herer possess pinene.

6. Humulene

Humulene is a primary terpene most commonly associated with hops—the same compound responsible for the earthy, spicy aroma found in your favorite IPAs.

It's also present in cannabis, particularly in sativa-dominant strains, as well as in plants like Vietnamese coriander and basil.

Not just a flavor enhancer, humulene offers a wide range of potential health benefits. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antitumor properties.

Notably, it also acts as a natural appetite suppressant, making it a subject of interest for weight management and metabolic health.

Humulene has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, where it’s been used to address inflammation and support overall wellness. Modern research is beginning to support these traditional uses.

A study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology demonstrated that humulene reduced markers of inflammation in mice.

Further research in 2008 confirmed these effects when humulene was administered both orally and topically, suggesting potential applications for conditions such as allergic rhinitis.

Humulene is often paired with β–caryophyllene, another terpene known for its anti-inflammatory properties, to enhance its therapeutic effects.

For cannabis users who appreciate the flavor of hops or seek functional wellness benefits—especially for inflammation or appetite control—humulene-rich strains may offer a compelling choice.

7. Terpineol

This is a rare terpene that smells of lilacs. It has calming and mood enhancing properties. Some recent studies have also shown that it can exhibit antimalarial properties.

The aroma of terpineol not only hints of lilac but also flower blossoms, as well as pine and clove.

Not surprisingly, terpineol often is found in cannabis varieties that have high pinene levels, which, unfortunately, mask the more subtle fragrances of this terpene.

Terpineol is known to have calming, relaxing effects, and studies indicate that cannabis-extracted terpineol has antioxidant properties as well.

As a lone terpene, terpineol’s aroma is best described as floral, with a soft fragrance of lilac blossoms with a slight citrus twist. In the flavor department, terpineol has been likened to mint and anise, with semi-sweet lime notes.

Terpineol is found in a number of other plant species besides cannabis, including lilac, pine and fir trees, eucalyptus, and lime blossoms.

8. Valencene

This is an exotic terpene that is found in significant amounts in the sweet Valencia oranges.

Valencene is a rare terpene with a citrus, herbal, and woody aroma.

Limited research on animal models has shown that valencene terpene may have anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy, skin protectant, and anti-cancer effects.

Valencene is thought to produce blissful and mood-boosting effects. It may also have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.

Valencene has many commercial uses, including food flavorings, cleaning products, cosmetic products, and pest control products.

9. Terpinolene

Terpinolene has a piney aroma with floral essences. It is also present in high amounts in sage and rosemary. It is commonly used in the manufacture of soaps and perfumes.

Some studies have shown that this terpene has depressant effects in the central nervous system. It induces drowsiness and may be used to reduce anxiety and stress.

Secondary Terpenes in Cannabis

12. Phellandrene

Phellandrene is a terpene with a rich history. From thousands of years back it has been used in Traditional Chinese medicine to relive digestive disorders.

Phellandrene can be found in mint, parsley, dill, black pepper, cinnamon, lavender and water fennel.

It has also been used to treat fungal infections. It is also found in eucalyptus oil.

13. Delta 3 Carene

This terpene produces a pleasant cypress aroma.

It helps in the healing and restoration of broken bones. It also improves memory and may be used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

14. Alpha-bisabolol

Alpha-bisabolol, also known as levomenol, produces a sweet tropical aroma. It is found in high amounts in chamomile flower and candeia tree.

It has been used to treat bacterial infections on the skin.

15. Eucalyptol

This terpene is also known as cineol and it is produces minty notes similar to what is produced by eucalyptus trees. It has antibacterial and antifungal benefits.

Preliminary research reports have shown potential of this terpene in treating Alzheimer’s disease.

16. Pulegone

This terpene is found in small amounts in cannabis strain while higher amounts may be found in rosemary.

It has a pleasing peppermint smell and may help to combat pain and high temperatures. It also has insecticidal properties.

17. Sabinene

Sabinene is also found in Norway Spruce and Basil. It has a piney aroma and offers potent antioxidant benefits.

18. Trans-nerolidol

This is a secondary terpene that is also common in flowers such as jasmine, lemongrass, and tea tree oil. It has floral woodsy aroma. It is best known for its antiparasitic effects.

19. Camphene

Camphene has a strong aroma of fir needles. When it is mixed with vitamin C it becomes a powerful antioxidant. It has also shown potential in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis.

Some studies have demonstrated that camphene has antifungal properties when it is combined with sage oil. It can be mixed with other essential oils such as holy basil and applied to the skin to fight fungal dermatitis.

When camphene is combined with tulsi essential oil it is able to relive respiratory symptoms such as in bronchitis. When diluted it acts as a cough suppressant and a decongestant.

Camphene has anti-inflammatory benefits when combined with other cannabis-derived terpenes. Chronic inflammation is an underlying factor in a couple of chronic diseases such as diabetes.

Apart from its therapeutic uses, it is a source of fuel and was used to light lamps several years back.

It is also commonly used in the preparation of fragrances and as a food flavoring agent.

20. Borneol

Borneol has a herbal and minty aroma and may be found in high amounts in rosemary, camphor, and mint.

It is known for its insecticidal properties.

It also has anticancer effects, as one recent study has shown.

Borneol terpene is a bicyclic monoterpene that has been used for thousands of years in Chinese herbal medicine to treat inflammation, pain, and respiratory conditions.

It is also commonly used in natural insect repellents and by the fragrance industry to create colognes and perfumes.

Borneol used to be commonly harvested by tapping the tree trunk of dryobalanops aromatica, also known as the camphor tree, then re-condensed into a clear substance.

Modern borneol production uses turpentine oil or camphor and then crushed into a powder to use topically. 

21. Phytol

This is a rare terpene that produces a floral balsamic aroma.

It offers sedative and anti-anxiety benefits. It is also used as a de-stressing compound.

22. Camphor

This is a secondary terpene that has a strong aroma this is perfect for repelling insects. It has been used for many years as a cold and cough remedy. It also helps to improve metabolism and circulation.

23. Bergamotene

This terpene has a spicy aroma like the one you expect to get from black pepper. It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antitumor properties.

24. Terpinene

This terpene is commonly used as an additive in the pharmaceutical industry. It has powerful antioxidant benefits.

25. Geranyl Acetate

This terpene is common in lemongrass and citronella.

It has a fruity aroma and offers antimicrobial benefits.

Do Terpenes Get You High?

While terpenes can certainly affect your high, they won’t produce any intoxicating effects like THC’s euphoric sensations.

Vaporizing and inhaling natural terpenes (and a carrier) won’t produce a buzz, but you may feel lightheaded or a slight unfamiliar feeling.

Terpenes, however, may diminish certain effects of THC such as its ability to induce paranoia and anxiety, especially for users who don’t frequently consume cannabis.

Terpenes won’t get you high, but they might improve your overall experience.

How To Use Terpenes

One of the most efficient ways to consume terpenes in cannabis flower or concentrates is through vaporization.

Desktop and portable vaporizers for dry herb and cannabis extracts allow users to heat their material at low enough temperatures to retain terpenes, which have a lower boiling point than cannabinoids like THC.

Each terpene has a different boiling point. For example, myrcene’s boiling point is 334ºF. Pinene boils at 311ºF. THC boils at about 220ºF.

Vaporizers with precise temperature control can help users slowly reach those temperatures for a flavorful experience. 

Consumers can also buy terpenes for sale in the form of terpene oil from a number of respected terpene brands such as True Terpenes, Floraplex Terpenes, and Blue River Terpenes.

Are terpenes legal? Yes. Terpenes can be botanically-derived from a number of plants that aren’t cannabis.

Producers make food-grade, natural, and organic terpenes that have been approved by the FDA for safe consumption.

Infuse terpenes into edibles, concentrates, topicals, and more.

List of Terpenes Conclusion

We’ve just begun to scratch the surface of the therapeutic potential of terpenes. As cannabis research restrictions relax, we’ll be able to better understand how exactly terpenes influence different cannabinoids and symptom relief.

Although the study of terpenes can be complex and challenging for even the most scientific mind, for the layman, terpenes play a huge role in providing variety to the many cannabis strains available on the market today.

Terpenes provide the unique, individual flavors of our favorite strains—and how bland life would be without variety!

Learn more about the amazing cannabis plant by checking out our online cannabis program.

Fred Hernandez

Fred Hernandez is a highly accomplished and versatile writer, boasting an extensive background in the cannabis industry. With an in-depth understanding of various sectors including cultivators, processors, retailers, and brands, Fred's expertise spans across the entire cannabis landscape. As a prominent contributor to CTU, he consistently delivers insightful articles exploring the latest developments, news, and regulations shaping the cannabis industry. Whether it's delving into the intricacies of cannabis products, cannabis strain reviews, or providing comprehensive analyses of cannabis laws, or sharing expert insights on cannabis cultivation techniques, Fred's wealth of knowledge positions him as an invaluable writer and educator for all cannabis-related subjects.