Terpenes can modify the effect of cannabinoids and contribute heavily to the flower’s taste and smell. Terpenes levels are often treated as a strain’s signature and are currently being studied to determine their physiological effects. Below is a summary of some terpenes that have been identified so far.
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Pinene
Pinene is a terpene with a robust pine-like scent and flavor, researchers believe it assists in the retention of memories, can increase focus, improve energy, and boost self-satisfaction. Pinene is also considered a bronchodilator, which allows more THC to be absorbed by the lungs.- Boiling Point: 311 °F (155°C)
- Piney (Pine Trees)
- Boosts: Cough Suppressant, Alertness, Memory Retention
- Most Commonly Found In: Pine Needles, Rosemary, Basil, Parsely, Dill
- Recommended Strain: Jack Herer
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Terpineol
Terpineol is a floral-heavy terpene that features subtle scents of orange blossom and lilac, is responsible for producing a feeling of sleepiness and the urge to rest. Terpineol is helpful for those with sleep issues and found in teas, lotions, and other highly fragrant applications.- Boiling Point: 426.2 °F (219°C)
- Floral Heavy Scent
- Boosts: Sleepiness, Rest, Anti-inflammatory
- Most Commonly Found In: Orange Blossoms, Lilac
- Recommended Strain: Do-Si-Dos
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Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is a woody, peppery terpene that is found in cannabis, many edible plants and most easily detectable in black pepper, cinnamon, oregano, cloves, hops, basil, and rosemary. This terpene is very often found in topical CBD salves because of its anti-inflammatory properties.- Boiling Point: 311°F (155°C)
- Hoppy and Hops Aroma
- Boosts: Anxiety Relief, Reduce Depression, Relieves Arthritis
- Most Commonly Found In: Black Pepper, Cloves, Cotton
- Recommended Strain: Hash Plant
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Linalool
Linalool has a strong floral scent similar to lilies and lavender, is often found in cannabis strains that produce a severe sedative effect, promoting feelings of sleepiness and relaxation.Helps relieve mental focus of physical pain or discomfort and has been suggested for use in the treatment of anxiety, depression, epilepsy, inflammation, and insomnia.- Boiling Point: 388°F (198°C)
- Floral Aromas with a Hint of Sage
- Boosts: Anti-inflammatory, Modulate Motor Movement, Helps Treat Liver Cancer
- Most Commonly Found In: Flowers, Mint, Cinnamon, Some Fungi
- Recommended Strain: LA Confidential
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Limonene
Limonene is a terpene with a bright, citrus smell and can be found in fruit rinds, cosmetics, and household cleaning products. It helps in stress relief, antibacterial properties, antifungal properties, lifted mood, and gastric reflux relief.- Boiling Point: 348.8°F (176°C)
- Citrus Aromas and Flavors
- Boosts: Weight Loss, Prevention and Treatment of Cancer, Bronchitis, Ointment Effectiveness
- Most Commonly Found In: Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, Some Types of Oranges
- Recommended Strain: Super Lemon Haze
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Myrcene
Myrcene has a really strong smell and is often found in mangoes, bay laurel leaves, hops, lemongrass, basil, and thyme. Studies suggest that it produces a sedative effect, and it increases the potency of THC when consumed and is useful as an antibiotic and antimutagenic, as well as in treating pain, inflammation, and insomnia.- Boiling Point: 330°F (166°C)
- Earthy and Musky w/ Fruitful Flavors
- Boosts: Muscle Relief, Anti-Inflammatory, Sedative
- Most Commonly Found In: Mangos, Lemongrass, Thyme, Hops
- Recommended Strain: White Widow
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Pulgone
Pulgone is somewhat minty. Outside of cannabis, this terpene is often used by candy makers for its sweet, strong flavor and scent. Some research suggests that this terpene diminishes memory loss by reducing the destruction of memory transfer proteins in the brain. It is effective in increasing alertness, increasing focus, and repelling insects.- Boiling Point: 435.2°F (224°C)
- Pleasant, Happy Scents
- Boosts: Alertness, Focus, Insect Repellent
- Most Commonly Found In: Peppermint, Pennyroyal, Camphor
- Recommended Strain: OG Kush
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Borneol
Borneol has been known to play a huge part in Chinese medicine going back to as early as 1600. Often called moxa, was used to treat inflammation, anxiety, and heart disease. In recent years, researchers have suggested that it may be used as a neuroprotectant, analgesic, and antioxidant.It also repels insects as it has a rich odor similar to camphor or menthol and produces a calming effect.- Boiling Point: 415°F (213°C)
- Earthy and Camphor
- Boosts: Analgesic Properties, Anti-Insomnia, Anti-Septic, Anti-Bronchodilator
- Most Commonly Found In: Rosemary, Mint
- Recommended Strain: Skywalker OG