Why do some strains of weed smell more skunky than others? Sour diesel is vastly different from Grape Ape and that’s largely due to its terpene profile.



What are terpenes?
Terpenes are the compounds within plants that make them look, taste, and smell the way they do. Terpenes are also found in many foods and spices and most citrus fruits. Knowing your terpenes isn’t essential to consuming cannabis but it sure helps you appreciate, differentiate, and identify strains from just a whiff, like a real cannabis connoisseur. Learning about terpenes also allows you to better unlock the medicinal benefits of weed since a number of terpenes are popular among patients with specific symptoms.



How many terpenes are there in cannabis plants?
There are more than 100 known terpenes in cannabis, but the five most common ones every cannabis shopper should learn about are:



Limonene:
One of the most popular terpenes out there, limonene is found in citrus fruits and prominent in your favorite Sativa-dominant strains from Sour Diesel to Pineapple Express. Limonene acts as an antioxidant in the body and therefore is known for immune-boosting properties. Patients with digestion issues also prefer strains high in limonene due to this terpene’s anti-inflammatory benefits.



Myrcene:
When you come across a particularly “earthy” scent, you’re likely encountering a strain high in myrcene like Blue Dream and OG Kush. Patients report experiencing relief for minor aches and pains when consuming cannabis high in myrcene. Stay away from strains high in myrcene if you have a long day ahead because strains high in myrcene are known to produce "couch-lock" or sedation.



Caryophyllene:
You’ll sniff out any strain high in this terpene, as it is also found in black pepper, cloves, rosemary, and cinnamon. Patients struggling with depression tend to choose strains high in Caryophyllene. It is found in popular strains like GSC, Bubba Kush, and Sour Diesel and it boasts anti-inflammatory, analgesic, digestive and antidepressant properties.



Linalool:
Did you catch a hint of springtime flowers? You’re probably smelling a cannabis plant high in linalool. This terpene is found in lavender and mint. Linalool has relaxing effects and can have even more calming effects when present with sedative terpenes like myrcene and humulene.



A-Pinene:
As the name suggests, Pinene is found in pine trees, but you’ll come across it when you notice an aroma of pine in weed strains like Cannatonic and Grape Ape. It’s known to aid memory and alleviate stress while boasting anti-inflammatory and energy-boosting properties.



The Entourage Effect
The expression “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts” is especially true when it comes to terpenes. The different types and quantities of terpenes make each cannabis plant strain unique.

While terpenes have different benefits, research suggests that they work with cannabinoids to deliver more benefits and unique effects than they would individually. We call that the entourage effect. For example, when beta-caryophyllene is present with high levels of other terpenes that have uplifting effects – like linalool – you’re more likely to experience that mood boost.



Start Your Journey
Ready to put your knowledge of terpenes to the test? Stop by Green Dragon dispensaries and browse in a relaxed shopping environment. Our knowledgeable staff will always gladly steer you in the right direction based on your preferences and interests–from connaisseur to first-time toker!