Well… a terpene is a naturally occurring hydrocarbon, based on combinations of the isoprene unit – produced by myriad plants, including cannabis.

Terpenoids are compounds related to terpenes – these two terms are often used interchangeably. Over 20 000 terpenoid compounds have been found throughout the plant kingdom thus far. Only around 200 have been identified in cannabis.

Terpenoids are primarily responsible for the distinct aroma and flavour of your bud – whatever terpenoid/s predominate within the organism determine the smell and taste of the produce, which is reminiscent of other plant organisms due to its genetic lineage. In addition, terpenoids have their own unique therapeutic effects.

Common Terpenoids

The following are the most commonly occurring terpenoids found in cannabis strains:

Alpha-pinene:

Also found in pine needles

Flavours: piney, rosemary-like

Therapeutic Effects: anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, aids memory, bronchodilator (breathing aid)

Beta-caryophyllene:

Also found in echinacea

Flavours: citrus, oily, spicy

Therapeutic Effects: anti-inflammatory, gastric cytoprotectant (cell protectant)

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Caryophyllene Oxide:

Also found in lemon balm

Flavours: clove, wood, peppery, spicy

Therapeutic Effects: anti-fungal

Limonene

Also found in lemons

Flavours: citrus, juniper, lemon, peppermint, rosemary, tangerine

Therapeutic Effects: immune stimulant, anti-depressant, anti-anxiety

Linalool:

Also found in lavender

Flavours: candy spice, floral, herbal

Therapeutic Effects: anti-anxiety, anti-convulsant, sedative

Myrcene:

Also found in hops

Flavours: acid, citrus, clove, fruity

Therapeutic Effects: anti-inflammatory, sedative, analgesic

FUN FACT: Hops and cannabis are both members of the same Cannabaceae plant family. (Unfortunately, hops do not contain any THC; however, they do possess similar terpenoids, which accounts for the similar flavour profiles found within cannabis and craft/IPA beers).

Nerolidol:

Also found in oranges

Flavours: berry, floral, sweet, woody

Therapeutic Effects: sedative, anti-fungal, skin protectant

Phytol:

Also found in green tea

Flavours: creamy, earthy, floral, vanilla

Therapeutic Effects: anti-insomnia