THE MAIN CANNABIS TERPENES EXPLAINED

The Most Common Terpenes in Cannabis

There are over 200 terpenes identified in cannabis, but here are eight of the most commonly found in popular strains:

1. Myrcene

Cannabis flower and a preroll are on a cutting board next to a cut up mango, which also has the terpene myrcene.

  • Aroma: Earthy, herbal

  • Also Found In: Mangoes, thyme, lemongrass

  • Cannabis Connection: Myrcene is one of the most dominant terpenes across cannabis strains, especially in classics like Blue Dream and OG Kush.

2. Limonene

Cannabis flower leaf and nug lie next to sliced lemons with the same terpene called limonene.

  • Aroma: Citrus, bright

  • Also Found In: Lemons, limes, oranges

  • Cannabis Connection: Frequently present in strains like Wedding Cake and Tahoe OG, limonene is prized for its zesty aroma.

3. Beta-Caryophyllene

Peppercorns with the beta-caryophyllene terpene are next to cannabis flower buds with a similar flavor.

  • Aroma: Spicy, peppery

  • Also Found In: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon

  • Cannabis Connection: Unique for its ability to interact with the body's cannabinoid system. Found in strains like GSC and Purple Punch.

4. Pinene (Alpha-Pinene)

Cannabis flower nugs next to pine needles and pine cones that have a similar flavor as the cannabis terpene pinene.

  • Aroma: Pine, forest-like

  • Also Found In: Pine needles, rosemary, basil

  • Cannabis Connection: Adds a refreshing touch to strains like Snoop’s Dream and LA Confidential.

5. Linalool

Two purple flowers with the linalool terpene lie next to a cannabis flower nug and leaf with a similar aroma.

  • Aroma: Floral, soft, lavender-like

  • Also Found In: Lavender, mint, coriander

  • Cannabis Connection: Common in aromatic strains like Zkittlez and Amnesia Haze, although rarely dominant.

6. Humulene

  • Aroma: Earthy, woody

  • Also Found In: Hops, coriander, cloves

  • Cannabis Connection: Found in popular cultivars like Gelato and White Widow, humulene plays a background role in many terpene blends.

7. Terpinolene

  • Aroma: Sweet, piney, slightly citrusy

  • Also Found In: Apples, nutmeg, lilacs

  • Cannabis Connection: Rare but potent, often appears in strains like Jack Herer and Dutch Treat.

8. Ocimene

  • Aroma: Sweet, herbal, woody

  • Also Found In: Orchids, mint, parsley

  • Cannabis Connection: Found in strains like Strawberry Cough and Green Crack, and frequently studied for its role in plant defense.

 

Why Terpenes Matter for Cultivators and Manufacturers

Two cannabis flower nugs rich in terpenes are held up in a black glove.

Terpenes play a vital role beyond consumer preference. For growers, terpene expression is a sign of plant health and can indicate optimal harvest timing. In processing, protecting terpene content during extraction is key to creating premium-quality concentrates or infused products.

From a product development standpoint, different terpene combinations are often blended to achieve targeted sensory profiles, offering consumers a familiar aromatic experience with each use.

 

Cannabis Terpenes and the Entourage Effect

The entourage effect is a theory suggesting that cannabinoids and terpenes work better together than in isolation. Rather than relying on THC or CBD alone, many believe that a fuller spectrum of compounds provides a more robust experience. While this remains a developing area of cannabis science, the popularity of full-spectrum products reflects growing interest in this synergy.

 

At STIIIZY, we take pride in crafting our products from premium cannabis flower, maintaining high standards from cultivation through extraction. Whether you’re into pods, concentrates, or pre-rolls, our approach to terpene preservation is part of what sets our brand apart.

FAQs

Terpenes provide aroma and flavor to cannabis. They’re also being studied for how they may interact with cannabinoids and other plant compounds.

Not at all. Terpenes exist in most plants, everything from pine trees and lemons to lavender and hops.

Experienced consumers may be able to detect certain dominant terpenes by scent alone, but lab testing provides the most accurate breakdown.

Factors include genetics, environment, soil quality, nutrients, curing technique, and harvest timing.

Yes. Cannabis-derived terpenes come directly from the cannabis plant, while botanical terpenes are sourced from other plants. Both may be used in formulation depending on the product.

In concentrate formats, terpenes heavily influence the sensory profile. Products like live resin and rosin aim to preserve more of these compounds.

STIIIZY complies with all applicable state laws regarding the sale and marketing of cannabis products. This content is intended for adults 21+ in jurisdictions where cannabis use is legal under state law. By engaging with this material, you acknowledge that you are of legal age in your jurisdiction.

This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. STIIIZY makes no health claims about cannabis products. Consult a licensed healthcare professional before using cannabis, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition.

Cannabis products may affect individuals differently. Consume responsibly and avoid operating vehicles or machinery after use. STIIIZY disclaims all liability for any adverse effects, legal consequences, or misuse resulting from the use of our products or reliance on this content.

Cannabis laws vary by state and locality. This content does not constitute legal advice. Users are responsible for understanding and complying with their local regulations.

Statements about product effects or benefits are based on general industry knowledge and user experiences. Individual results may vary. STIIIZY does not guarantee specific outcomes.

References to third-party studies, testimonials, or external resources are provided for context only. STIIIZY does not endorse or validate these materials unless explicitly stated.

The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of STIIIZY.

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