Terpenes are the aromatic oils that provide cannabis with its unique scent.
There are more than 100 terpenes in the cannabis plant alone.
Any plant of fruit you can think of also contains terpenes. They change more than just the smell of cannabis. They also provide each strain with its own unique physiologic effects. Each strain contains different combinations of terpenes. The most beneficial terpenes are Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, Linalool, Pinene, Pulegone, Eucalyptol, and Nerolidol. Myrcene may smell slightly sour, like citrus or mango. It can act as an anti-inflammatory agent, pain reliever, sedative, or muscle relaxant. Limonene also has a citrusy smell and can also smell like bergamot. It acts as a relaxant, anti-cancer, anti-anxiety, anti-nausea, or an antidepressant agent. Caryophyllene smells extremely earthy, like spice, wood, clove, or pepper. It acts as an anti-inflammatory, anti nausea, or sedative. Linalook smells floral like hops, sage, and flowers. It acts as an anti-anxiety, anti-convulsant, pain reliever, and sedative. Pinene comes with a pine scent and can help you focus, have better memory, and be more alert. Pinene is also an anti-inflammatory. Pulegone is a refreshing, minty terpene and has memory enhancing capabilities and can also act as a chest decongestant and sedative. Eucalyptol carries scents of woods, spice, and rosemary. It is a memory enhancer and can be used as a sinus decongestant. Nerolidol is woodsly and flowery and is an anti-anxiety terpene and relaxes and sedates you. If you know your terpenes, you’ll know what to look for at the dispensary. Bud tenders are usually available to answer any questions you may have. Finding the right strain to treat your symptoms may take time. Since cannabis is all-natural, trying different strains is not harmful.