What Are Terpenes? A Beginner's Guide
7 min readBeginner Level
Everything you need to know about cannabis terpenes — what they are, how they affect your experience, the most common terpenes, and how to choose strains based on terpene profiles.
This guide is for educational purposes only. Cannabis is illegal in the UK without a medical prescription. Always consult a healthcare professional before making decisions about cannabis use.
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants — not just cannabis. They're responsible for the distinctive smells of pine trees, lavender, citrus fruits, and hops. In cannabis, terpenes work alongside cannabinoids to shape the effects and experience of each strain.
Cannabis plants produce terpenes in the same resin glands (trichomes) that produce cannabinoids. A single strain can contain over 100 different terpenes, but only a handful appear in significant concentrations.
Terpenes are volatile — they evaporate at relatively low temperatures. This is why vaping at lower temperatures (160-185°C) preserves more flavour, while higher temperatures destroy terpenes and produce a harsher taste.
The combination of terpenes and cannabinoids in a strain is called its 'terpene profile.' This profile is as important as THC percentage in determining the effects you'll experience.
Myrcene: The most common terpene in cannabis. Found in mangoes, lemongrass, and hops. Aroma: earthy, musky, clove-like. Effects: sedating, relaxing — contributes to 'couch-lock' in indica strains. Also has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Limonene: The second most common terpene. Found in citrus rinds, juniper, and peppermint. Aroma: bright citrus, lemon. Effects: mood-elevating, stress-relieving, anti-anxiety. Often dominant in strains used for depression and stress.
Beta-caryophyllene: The only terpene that also binds to CB2 receptors (like a cannabinoid). Found in black pepper, cloves, and rosemary. Aroma: spicy, peppery, woody. Effects: anti-inflammatory, anxiety-reducing. This is why chewing black pepper can help with THC-induced anxiety.
Pinene: Found in pine needles, rosemary, and basil. Aroma: fresh pine, forest. Effects: alertness, memory retention, anti-inflammatory. Pinene can help counteract the short-term memory impairment that THC sometimes causes.
Linalool: Found in lavender, bergamot, and jasmine. Aroma: floral, sweet, spicy. Effects: calming, sedating, anti-anxiety. Commonly found in strains recommended for sleep and stress relief.
Humulene: Found in hops, coriander, and cloves. Aroma: earthy, woody, spicy. Effects: appetite-suppressing (unique among terpenes), anti-inflammatory, antibacterial. More common in sativa strains.
The entourage effect is the theory that cannabinoids and terpenes work better together than in isolation. A full-spectrum product with a rich terpene profile may provide more significant therapeutic benefits than a pure THC or CBD isolate.
Examples: Myrcene is thought to increase the permeability of cell membranes, potentially allowing cannabinoids to absorb more effectively. Limonene may increase serotonin levels, enhancing CBD's anti-anxiety effects.
This is why many medical patients and experienced users prefer flower or full-spectrum extracts over isolates — the combination of compounds produces a richer, more nuanced experience.
When choosing a strain, look at the terpene profile as well as the THC/CBD percentage. Labs that test cannabis typically provide a full terpene analysis alongside cannabinoid content. DAM Live's strain index includes terpene information for many strains.
For relaxation and sleep: Look for strains high in myrcene and linalool. These are the primary sedating terpenes. Classic examples: Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights, and Lavender.
For energy and focus: Look for strains high in pinene and limonene. These are uplifting and alertness-promoting. Classic examples: Jack Herer, Super Lemon Haze, and Sour Diesel.
For pain relief: Look for strains high in beta-caryophyllene and myrcene. Caryophyllene's CB2-binding properties make it particularly effective for inflammation-based pain. Classic examples: Girl Scout Cookies, OG Kush, and Chemdawg.
For anxiety: Look for strains high in limonene and linalool, with low total THC. Avoid strains high in pinene if you're prone to anxiety — some people find it too stimulating. Balanced 1:1 THC:CBD strains are often the safest choice.
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About the Author
DM
Dave Mak
Dave founded The Budophile to create clear, honest cannabis education for UK beginners. With a background in health research and a network of specialist contributors, he ensures every guide is accurate, evidence-based, and practical. He also runs Baked & Rated for product reviews and The Green Prescription for medical cannabis access guidance.
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