What Are Cannabis Terpenes? | Cannabis Growing Australia

There is a lot more to cannabis than you may think, and it is actually made up of many different compounds and terpenes, but what exactly are terpenes, what do they do, and do they get you high? This post explains all.

Terpenes can be good to know about when picking different cannabis strains so read on to find out why you should take note!

So, what are terpenes?

Terpenes are one of the compounds found in the cannabis plant, and in fact, all plants, and even some animals. Pretty much every plant contains terpenes, and they are what give plants the smell and flavour they have. Think of that lovely pine smell when you walk through a pine forest, that would be the result of the terpene pinene.

The terpenes in cannabis are what give each strain its unique taste, aroma, and smell. This can give quite a big impact on how each person feels and enjoys certain strains. Citrus plants and herbs also have a fair few terpenes in them.

How do cannabis terpenes and other cannabinoids work together?

Some strains have a similar level of THC but produce different effects, and they may be due to how the dominant terpenes work alongside the THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids in the strain, producing completely different feelings and effects.

Many experts, after initial research findings believe in something called the ‘entourage effect.’ They believe that using a full spectrum cannabis, i.e., THC, combined with CBD, other cannabinoids, or terpenes, can give a better result for things like pain or other medical issues. Research is still in its infancy, but early results are promising. Some studies have suggested that using a full spectrum cannabis, which contains multiple terpenes and cannabinoids actually works better than THC or CBD extracts alone.

Can you get a high from terpenes in cannabis?

Whilst the terpenes in cannabis won’t get you high on their own, there is some initial research that suggests certain terpenes may have an effect on mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety.

Some budtenders also believe that it is the terpenes you should focus on when picking a strain, and that certain terpenes may affect the THC level in cannabis. Certain strains may help with the desired mood you are after.

Types of terpenes found in cannabis and other plants

Limonene. This is one of the most common terpenes and you will find it in citrus fruits, and even skincare products or cleaning products. It has a very aromatic aroma, as well as smelling fruity and citrusy. Some Limonene-dominant cannabis strains include Purple Hindu Kush, Banana OG, Wedding Cake, Tahoe OG, and Berry White.
Pinene. This terpene is what gives a pine forest that gorgeous smell. It can be found in pine needles, orange peel, basil and rosemary and can be used for pain, anxiety, and inflammation. Strains that are pinene-dominant include Blue Dream, Cannatonic, Harlequin, Cotton Candy Kush, God’s Gift, and Remedy.
Caryophyllene. This terpene is found in many cannabis strains and has a unique flavour that gives black pepper that spicy flavour. You will also find it in rosemary, cloves, and hops. Scientists believe that Caryophyllene, being a non-cannabinoid, can access and activate cannabinoid receptors directly, effecting the endocannabinoid system. This may mean that those strains high in Caryophyllene may be good for medicinal purposes, like anxiety and depression. Strains high in Caryophyllene include Sour Diesel, Girl Scout Cookies (GSC), Gelato, Original Glue, and Bubba Kush.
Myrcene. This is another common terpene found in cannabis and is believed to induce a calming effect. You will find it in hops, mango, lemongrass, and thyme and it is thought to have antibacterial properties. Strains high in Myrcene include Blue Dream, OG Kush, Granddaddy Purple, Harlequin, and Remedy.
Humulene. Studies on hops, ginseng, and black pepper have shown that Humulene has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and has been used in folk medicine for many years. You can find it in hops and wood, and it can give cannabis strains a woody, earthy, herbal, and spicy aromas. You can find this cannabis terpen in Gelato, Sherbet, Death Star, Original Glue, and Thin Mint GSC.
Linalool. This strain can help produce a relaxing and calming effect and is found in lavender and birch bark. This is a great terpene to use if you want to help relive stress. It smells of lavender with a touch of spice. Linalool has been used in traditional medicine practices to promote relaxation, sedation and to potentially control seizures. You can find Linalool in cannabis strains like Kosher Kush, Zkittlez, Scooby Snacks, and Do-Si-Dos.
Terpinolene. This is only found in some cannabis strains and can produce different aromas including fruitiness, floral and herby. It is thought to induce an uplifting effect. You can find it in Jack Herer, Ghost Train Haze, Golden Pineapple, and Dutch Treat.

Grow from our high quality seeds and find out which terpenes are your fav!