Terpenes are organic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis, that are responsible for the plant's distinct aroma and flavor. They are also believed to contribute to the unique effects of different cannabis strains through a mechanism known as the "entourage effect."

Here are several major cannabis terpenes:

Myrcene

Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis. It is known for its earthy, musky, and sometimes fruity aroma, often described as similar to cloves or hops. Myrcene is also found in mangoes and lemongrass.

Aroma	Common Sources (Non-Cannabis)	Potential Effects
Earthy, musky, fruity	Mangoes, hops, lemongrass, thyme	Relaxing, sedative, anti-inflammatory

Limonene

As its name suggests, limonene has a distinctly citrusy aroma, reminiscent of lemons, limes, and oranges. It is the second most common terpene in nature. Limonene is frequently used in cosmetics, cleaning products, and as a flavoring agent.

Aroma	Common Sources (Non-Cannabis)	Potential Effects
Citrus, bright, sour	Lemon rinds, oranges, grapefruit, peppermint	Mood elevation, stress relief, antifungal

Pinene (Alpha and Beta)

Pinene is an aromatic compound common in conifer trees and, specifically, pine needles. It is the most common terpene found in nature and contributes a distinctive piney, woody scent. Pinene exists as two structural isomers: alpha-pinene and beta-pinene.

Aroma	Common Sources (Non-Cannabis)	Potential Effects
Pine, woody, earthy	Pine needles, rosemary, basil, dill	Alertness, memory retention, anti-inflammatory

Caryophyllene (Beta)

Caryophyllene, sometimes referred to as beta-caryophyllene, is the only terpene known to also act as a cannabinoid, as it is able to directly bind to CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. It is characterized by a spicy, peppery, and woody aroma.

Aroma	Common Sources (Non-Cannabis)	Potential Effects
Peppery, spicy, woody, clove	Black pepper, cloves, oregano, cinnamon	Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, stress relief

Linalool

Linalool is recognizable by its floral, sometimes spicy, scent. It is a terpene often associated with calming and relaxing effects, giving it common use in aromatherapy. Linalool is also found in lavender.

Aroma	Common Sources (Non-Cannabis)	Potential Effects
Floral, lavender, subtly spicy	Lavender, coriander, mint, rosewood	Calming, sedative, anti-anxiety

Humulene

Humulene contributes a subtle woody, earthy, and sometimes spicy note. It is primarily found in Humulus lupulus, the hop plant, which is used to make beer. It is also an ingredient in many traditional remedies.

Aroma	Common Sources (Non-Cannabis)	Potential Effects
Earthy, woody, subtly spicy	Hops, sage, ginseng, clove	Anti-inflammatory, appetite suppressant