Have you ever noticed that you can recognize the smell of weed right away? Have you noticed that some weed smells like pine trees while other strains are fruity? These distinct aromas are the result of terpenes, but what are cannabis terpenes? 

Terpenes are organic compounds found in the marijuana plant. They have essential roles to play beyond just giving pot its fantastic smell. Terpenes interact with the cannabinoids found in cannabis. The interaction of terpenes and phytocannabinoids is reported to be more effective than consuming CBD or THC alone. When terpenes come together with cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBN, they create what is known as the entourage effect, the perfectly balanced high.  

To date, over 100 terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant. Terpenes give strains their unique odour. If you’ve ever smelled the sour in sour diesel or the blueberry in OG blueberry, you’ve enjoyed the wonder of terpenes. 

What are terpenes known for besides smell? Some also believe that cannabis terpenes might explain why various strains have different effects. Also, the different strains of the cannabis plant are often distinguished by their scents. 

Marijuana Terpenes

There are many strains of cannabis, which means there are many hemp terpenes as well. 

Some types of them help us feel more relaxed than others like myrcene. Myrcene is the most notable of all terpenes. It is responsible for the relaxation felt when you smoke pot. You’ll find it in strains featured on Weed List, such as Granddaddy Purple, Pure Kush, Grape Ape, and Blue Dream. 

Cannabis users love these strains for their ability to induce pure relaxation and a carefree state of mind. Additionally, there are strains like Ghost Train Haze and Jack Herer for increased focus and uplifting feelings.

You’ll also find these terpenes in other plants like mangoes. This lovely tropical fruit’s sweet and pleasant aroma is because it has some amount of this compound, i.e. myrcene. While it’s not scientifically proven, the cannabis community widely agrees that eating mangoes enhances your high and makes feelings of euphoria last longer. This is a nice theory; however, an average cannabis strain containing myrcene has about 2 mg of the terpene, while an entire average mango carries roughly about 0.08 mg of myrcene.

Let’s explore the various types of terpenes found in varying types of cannabis strains with this terpenes chart:

  1. The first up on the marijuana terpenes list is, of course, myrcene, as explained above. It has its novel earthy, an herbal odour that often mirrors cardamom and cloves. What are terpenes, if not lovely, smelling? Myrcene vaporizes at 167°C (332°F) and is known for its relaxing effects. So if you’ve had a long, tiring day, fire up a bowl and myrcene to the rescue. Not only will you unwind, but it has many therapeutic benefits. It is helpful for the treatment of conditions like inflammation, insomnia, and chronic pain. If you want more myrcene in your diet, try mangoes, lemongrass, and hops. Marijuana strains with myrcene are OG Kush, Granddaddy Purple, Pure Kush, Blue Dream, Grape Ape, and Cherry Pie.
  2. Next up is Limonene, recognizable for its citric aroma and known for relieving stress and uplifting the mood. It vaporizes at 176°C (348°F), and the health benefits include alleviating depression and reducing inflammation, pain, and anxiety. Aside from cannabis, it’s found in peppermint, rosemary, and juniper. Strains with Limonene are White Fire OG, Do-Si-Dos, and Wedding Cake.
  3. The next in line is Caryophyllene, another particular type of cannabis terpene with a spicy pepper-like aroma. It can give off a woody and clove-like smell and offers relief from stress. Its boiling point is 130°C(266°F), and it helps treat ulcers, anxiety, and chronic pain. So what are terpenes found in? Caryophyllene is ordinarily found in spices like black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves, etc. Cannabis strains that contain the terpene caryophyllene are Original Glue and Purple Punch.
  4. Terpinolene usually has a piney, herbal and floral aroma. It has an uplifting effect, so if you’ve been feeling down lately, a smoke session may be in order. It vaporizes at 186°C (366°F) and offers antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Out of all marijuana terpenes, this terpene is abundant in nature, and you’ll find it in tea trees, cumin, nutmeg, and apples. Strains that contain terpinolene are Ghost Train Haze, Chernobyl and Jack Herer.
  5. The last on the list is Pinene. If you’ve ever opened your bag of weed and felt like you just stepped into a pine forest, you have Pinene to thank. After smoking it, consumers report feeling more alert as it counteracts some of the effects of THC. The boiling point of Pinene is 155°C(311°F). Pinene helps treat asthma, inflammation, pain, ulcers, and anxiety. If you’re looking for an upbeat high, try Snoop’s Dream or Critical Mass, which both contain Pinene. 

In Conclusion on What Terpenes Are

Now that you know what hemp terpenes are, thanks to our terpenes chart, how they work, and which strains have which kind of cannabis terpenes, it’s time to find the strain that’s right for you. You can order online at dispensaries or get your package the same day from services such as Weed Delivery Vancouver.

Experiment with various strains until you find the perfect fit. Keep in mind that if you don’t like one strain, you may enjoy another. Start slow and increase your dose after you find out how the weed will affect you. 

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