Terpenes: How They Shape Your High

What the heck are terpenes and how do I know if I like them?

When you think about cannabis, THC and CBD probably come to mind first. But have you ever wondered why different strains smell so unique and have such varied effects? The answer lies in terpenes—these little aromatic compounds that do more than just make your weed smell nice. Terpenes are like the unsung heroes of cannabis, contributing to the overall experience in ways you might not expect. Let’s dive into the world of common cannabis terpenes, how they affect you, and why some might turn you off.

What Are Terpenes, Anyway?

Terpenes are natural compounds found in many plants, not just cannabis. They give each plant its distinctive aroma and flavor. In cannabis, terpenes are found in the same trichomes that produce THC and CBD. They don’t just smell good—they also play a big role in how cannabis affects your mind and body. This is due to something called the “entourage effect,” where terpenes and cannabinoids work together to create unique effects.

Meet the Terpenes

Myrcene:

Smells Like: Earthy, musky, with a hint of cloves.

Feels Like: Super relaxing. If you’ve ever felt glued to the couch after a session, myrcene is probably at work. It’s great for chilling out and might help with pain and inflammation.

Found In: Banana Blast, Diamond OG, NYC Housewives and Wedding Cake.

Limonene:

Smells Like: Fresh lemons.

Feels Like: Uplifting and mood-boosting. It’s like a burst of sunshine, perfect for beating stress and anxiety.

Found In: Banana Blast, Candyland, Diamond OG, London Poundmints, NYC Housewives, Super Lemon Haze, Wedding Cake. 

Pinene:

Smells Like: A walk in a pine forest.

Feels Like: Alert and focused. It can help with memory and might even open up your airways—good news if you have asthma.

Found In Strains like: Jack Herer, Blue Dream, OG Kush.

Linalool:

Smells Like: Lavender fields.

Feels Like: Super calming. Great for relaxation, anxiety, and even helping you sleep.

Found In: London Poundmints.

Caryophyllene:

Smells Like: Spicy, peppery goodness.

Feels Like: It’s a bit of a unique terpene because it directly interacts with your endocannabinoid system. It’s known for pain relief and reducing anxiety.

Found In: Banana Blast, Candyland, Diamond OG, London Poundmints, NYC Housewives, Wedding Cake.

Humulene:

Smells Like: Earthy and woody.

Feels Like: Unlike other terpenes, it can suppress appetite. Plus, it’s good for inflammation.

Found In: Candyland.

Why Terpenes Matter to Your Experience

Terpenes do more than just add flavor and aroma—they can significantly influence how a strain affects you. For instance, if you’re looking for a strain to help you wind down after a long day, one high in myrcene might be the ticket. On the flip side, if you need a mental boost, something rich in limonene could be more your style.

Why Some People Don’t Like Certain Terpenes

Just like some people can’t stand cilantro, certain terpenes might be a turn-off for others. This could be due to the terpene’s smell, taste, or how it makes them feel. For example, if the earthy smell of myrcene reminds someone of damp soil and that’s not appealing, they might avoid strains with high myrcene content. Or if a terpene makes someone feel anxious rather than relaxed, they’re likely to steer clear of it.

Interestingly, your reaction to a terpene might help you predict how a strain will affect you. If you’ve had a bad experience with a strain high in pinene, for example, you might want to avoid other strains with similar profiles. 

Terpenes are a big deal in the world of cannabis, affecting everything from flavor to the overall high. By getting to know these aromatic compounds, you can make more informed choices about which strains to try. Whether you’re looking to relax, get energized, or find relief from pain, understanding terpenes can help guide your cannabis journey.