Terpenes Guide
CANNABIS
TERPENES
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give each cannabis strain its unique scent and flavor. But they also influence the effects. Learn about the most important terpenes.
What are Terpenes?
THE AROMAS OF CANNABIS
Terpenes are organic compounds found in cannabis and many other plants. They're responsible for the characteristic scents – from fruity-sweet to earthy-spicy. But terpenes do more than just smell good: They can enhance or modulate the effects of cannabinoids like THC and CBD – a phenomenon known as the 'entourage effect'.
Main Terpenes
MEET THE TERPENES
Myrcene
Aroma
Earthy, musky, herbal
Effects
Relaxing, calming, sedative
Common in: Indica strains, mango, thyme, lemongrass
The most abundant terpene in cannabis. Myrcene is known for its relaxing effects and is often associated with the typical 'couch-lock' effect of Indica strains.
Limonene
Aroma
Citrus, lemon, orange
Effects
Uplifting, energizing, stress-relieving
Common in: Sativa strains, lemons, oranges, mint
Limonene gives cannabis strains a fresh citrus aroma. It's known for its mood-elevating properties and is commonly found in Sativa-dominant strains.
Pinene
Aroma
Pine, forest, fresh
Effects
Focusing, memory-enhancing, anti-inflammatory
Common in: Hybrid strains, pine trees, rosemary, basil
Pinene smells like fresh pine forest and is the most widespread terpene in nature. It can help improve memory retention and acts as a bronchodilator.
Caryophyllene
Aroma
Spicy, peppery, woody
Effects
Pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic
Common in: Various strains, black pepper, cloves, cinnamon
Caryophyllene is unique because it can also activate CB2 receptors, similar to cannabinoids. It has strong anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Linalool
Aroma
Floral, lavender, sweet
Effects
Calming, anxiolytic, sedative
Common in: Indica strains, lavender, coriander, birch
Linalool smells like lavender and is known for its calming and anxiety-reducing properties. Ideal for relaxing evenings and better sleep.
Humulene
Aroma
Hoppy, earthy, woody
Effects
Appetite-suppressing, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
Common in: Various strains, hops, coriander, basil
Humulene is also found in hops and gives beer its characteristic aroma. Unlike many cannabinoids, it can act as an appetite suppressant.
DISCOVER STRAINS
BY TERPENES
In the Highcovery app you can filter strains by their terpene profiles and find the perfect variety for your desired effects.
To Strain Database