Terpenes are aromatic oils that give cannabis its distinct scent.
There are over 100 terpenes in the cannabis plant alone.
Terpenes can be found in almost any fruit plant. They affect more than just the aroma of cannabis. They also give each strain its own distinct physiologic effects. Terpene combinations differ between strains. Terpenes that are most beneficial are Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, Linalool, Pinene, Pulegone, Eucalyptol, and Nerolidol. Myrcene may smell slightly sour, like citrus or mango. It can be used as an anti-inflammatory agent, pain reliever, sedative, or muscle relaxant, but it also has a citrusy aroma and can smell like bergamot. It works as a relaxant, anti-cancer, anti-anxiety, anti-nausea, and antidepressant agent. Caryophyllene aromas are intensely earthy, reminiscent of spice, wood, clove, or pepper. It works as an anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, and sedative. Linalook has floral aromas of hops, sage, and flowers. It acts as an anti-anxiety, anti-convulsant, pain reliever, and sedative. Pinene has a pine scent and can help you focus, remember things better, and stay alert. Pinene is also an anti-inflammatory. Pulegone is a refreshing, minty terpene that can improve memory and also act as a chest decongestant and sedative. Eucalyptol has scents of wood, spice, and rosemary. It is a memory enhancer as well as a sinus decongestant, but nerolidol is woodsy and flowery as well as an anti-anxiety terpene that relaxes and sedates you. If you’re familiar with terpenes, you’ll know what to look for at the dispensary. Bud tenders are usually on hand to answer any questions you may have. Finding the right strain to treat your symptoms can take some time. Because cannabis is all-natural, experimenting with various strains is not harmful.