Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, though many people commonly associate them with cannabis because cannabis plants contain high concentrations of them.

The fragrance of most plants is due to a combination of terpenes. Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant. In nature, these terpenes protect the plants from animal grazing or infectious germs. However, terpenes may also offer some health benefits to the human body. As regulations surrounding cannabis become less strict, scientists are carrying out more research into these possible benefits.

Many terpenes are bioactive, which means they may affect the body. This effect will vary based on the concentration of the terpene itself and how a person uses it.

Because terpenes produce vibrant smells, they form the basis of many essential oils and are an integral part of many alternative therapies, such as aromatherapy. Inhaling the scents from some plants and essential oils may affect a person’s mood and stress levels.

Some terpenes might promote relaxation and stress-relief, while others potentially promote focus and alertness. Myrcene, for example, is found in many relaxing cannabis strains like OG Kush and Bubblegum OG.

Terpinolene is commonly found in uplifting, active strains like Blueberry Haze and Super Lemon Haze.

The benefits and effects of any given terpene profile may change in the presence of other compounds (such as CBD) in a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.

Terpenes are now being isolated and concentrated into oils for individual vaping and those in the know are saying that it provides much more than a smell-and-taste experience. 

Many people in the cannabis and science communities believe that terpenes affect the way your brain receives cannabinoids such CBD. For example, vaping the terpene pinene; found in earthy strains like OG Kush (as well as in pine needles and conifer trees) is thought to bring focus.

There are two factors to consider when selecting a terpene profile – Flavour and the potential effect it can have on your mind and body. As some terpenes promote relaxation, while others potentially promote energy and focus. It is important to select the right one for you.

We have broken down the effects of each Terpene profile flavour in the chart below.

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds in cannabis. Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, activate receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system. These are what create effects such as pain and anxiety relief.

Terpenes are primarily responsible for the smell of most plants and some animal compounds. However, some may also act on the endocannabinoid system in the body in a similar way to cannabinoids. The key difference is that the body absorbs and uses these compounds in different ways.

Terpenes do not produce a psychoactive ‘high’ in the same way as THC.
However, they do work in more subtle ways to alter mood through interaction with the serotonin and dopamine systems.