Terpenes are natural aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis, herbs, flowers, and even some trees. These compounds are responsible for the unique scents of plants—think the refreshing zing of citrus or the calming aroma of lavender. But terpenes aren’t just about fragrance; they play a significant role in how our minds and bodies respond to these plants. Recent studies have shown that terpenes can have various effects on mood, stress, alertness, and even physical discomfort, making them a hot topic in the wellness world.

The “entourage effect” describes how different compounds in plants, especially in cannabis, work together to amplify therapeutic effects. While cannabinoids like CBD and THC often take center stage, terpenes contribute significantly to this effect. For instance, a strain high in linalool may feel more relaxing, while one high in limonene might be uplifting. When cannabinoids and terpenes interact, they can create effects that are more pronounced and specific than using cannabinoids alone.

Here are some of the most common terpenes found in both cannabis and herbal plants, along with their potential effects on the body and mind:

Limonene

• Scent: Fresh, citrusy aroma.
• Effects: Limonene is widely known for its uplifting, mood-boosting properties. It has a refreshing citrus scent that is often linked to increased energy and mental clarity. This terpene is commonly used to relieve stress and anxiety while promoting a sense of well-being. It’s also thought to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Where to Find It: Limonene is commonly found in:
  • Citrus fruits: Like lemons, oranges, grapefruits, and limes, which are natural sources of limonene.
  • Rosemary: The herb is not only aromatic but also contains limonene, making it a great addition to herbal blends for boosting mood.
  • Juniper: The juniper plant, often used in herbal teas and essential oils, also contains limonene.
• Additional Benefits: In addition to its mood-lifting properties, limonene is believed to support digestive health and enhance the absorption of other compounds.
• Use in Cannabis: Limonene is commonly found in sativa-dominant cannabis strains, contributing to their energizing and stimulating effects.

Linalool

• Scent: Floral and lavender-like.
• Effects: Linalool is known for its calming and sedative effects, making it a popular choice for those looking to reduce anxiety and stress. It’s widely used for promoting relaxation and sleep. It has gentle anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to relieve tension and discomfort.
• Where to Find It: Linalool is abundant in:
  • Lavender: This herb is a well-known source of linalool and is frequently used in essential oils, teas, and aromatherapy for its relaxing effects.
  • Mint: Various species of mint, including peppermint, contain linalool, which helps to calm the nervous system.
  • Rose: The petals of roses also contain linalool, contributing to the soothing properties of rose-scented products.
• Additional Benefits: Linalool is also thought to have anti-seizure and anti-depressant effects, and is used in aromatherapy for its relaxing and mood-lifting qualities.
• Use in Cannabis: Linalool is most commonly found in indica-dominant cannabis strains or those aimed at relaxation and sleep.

Myrcene

• Scent: Earthy and musky, with hints of clove.
• Effects: Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis, particularly in indica strains. Known for its sedative effects, it promotes relaxation and has muscle-relaxant properties. It’s also recognized for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant properties, making it helpful for managing pain and inflammation.
• Where to Find It: Myrcene is present in several herbs and fruits, including:
  • Mango: Known for its sweet, juicy flavor, mangoes are rich in myrcene and may help enhance the effects of cannabis when eaten together.
  • Lemongrass: Commonly used in culinary dishes and herbal teas, lemongrass contains myrcene and offers additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Thyme: This herb, often used in cooking, contains myrcene and has mild relaxing and digestive benefits.
• Additional Benefits: Myrcene is believed to have muscle-relaxant and pain-relieving properties and may help enhance the absorption of other cannabinoids like THC.
• Use in Cannabis: Indica-dominant strains typically have higher levels of myrcene, contributing to their relaxing and sleep-inducing effects.

Pinene

• Scent: Piney and fresh.
• Effects: Pinene is often associated with improved mental clarity, memory retention, and alertness. It’s known for its refreshing scent, which is reminiscent of pine forests. Pinene is also thought to have anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory (helping to open airways), and antioxidant effects, supporting both respiratory and overall health.
• Where to Find It: Pinene is most commonly found in:
  • Pine needles: Naturally found in pine trees, the essential oils extracted from pine needles are rich in pinene.
  • Rosemary: Another excellent source of pinene, rosemary is widely used in culinary dishes, essential oils, and wellness products.
  • Basil: Some varieties of basil, particularly the sweet basil, contain pinene and offer anti-inflammatory and respiratory benefits.
• Additional Benefits: Pinene is also believed to support memory and cognitive function, making it useful for focus and mental performance.
• Use in Cannabis: Pinene is often found in cannabis strains known for their cognitive-enhancing effects and may help counteract some of the memory-impairing effects of THC.

Caryophyllene

• Scent: Spicy and peppery.
• Effects: Caryophyllene is unique because it can directly bind to CB2 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for modulating pain, inflammation, and immune responses. It’s thought to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and anti-anxiety effects, making it valuable for those managing chronic pain or discomfort.
• Where to Find It: Caryophyllene is abundant in:
  • Black pepper: The peppery spice in black pepper contains significant amounts of caryophyllene and is often used to support digestion and relieve inflammation.
  • Cloves: A fragrant spice used in cooking, cloves are rich in caryophyllene, which is why they’re often included in herbal remedies for their anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Cinnamon: Known for its warming, spicy aroma, cinnamon also contains caryophyllene, contributing to its pain-relieving effects.
• Use in Cannabis: Many cannabis strains, particularly those with a peppery or spicy aroma, contain high levels of caryophyllene, making it useful for individuals seeking pain relief or anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Additional Benefits: Caryophyllene is notable for being the only terpene known to bind directly to cannabinoid receptors, providing potential therapeutic effects similar to cannabinoids like CBD and THC.

How to Use Terpenes in Daily Life

Incorporating terpene-rich products into your wellness routine can be as simple as selecting the right strains of cannabis, teas, or essential oils. When choosing cannabis products, consider the terpenes listed on the product label, as these can guide you toward the desired effect (e.g., relaxing, energizing). Many herbs used in teas are rich in beneficial terpenes. For instance, try a lavender or chamomile tea to experience the calming effects of linalool, or a rosemary tea to boost alertness with pinene. Essential oils in a diffuser or applying them topically (diluted with a carrier oil) is another way to enjoy terpene benefits. Limonene-rich citrus oils can brighten your mood, while lavender oil with linalool can promote restful sleep.

Terpenes interact with receptors in the brain and body, influencing the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin.

Mood: Some terpenes, like limonene and linalool, can influence mood by interacting with serotonin receptors, which are involved in regulating happiness and anxiety levels.

Cognition: Terpenes like pinene have been associated with improved memory and alertness. They may work by increasing acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter linked to learning and focus.
Sleep and Relaxation: Myrcene and linalool are sedative terpenes that promote relaxation by interacting with the brain’s GABA receptors, which help to calm nervous activity and reduce stress.
Physical Relief: Caryophyllene stands out for its ability to bind to CB2 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system, offering potential relief from inflammation and physical discomfort.

For those who enjoy cannabis products, terpenes can enhance the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids like CBD and THC. For instance, a CBD product with linalool and myrcene may have a stronger calming effect, making it a great choice for evening relaxation. Meanwhile, a THC product with limonene can amplify its mood-boosting effects, providing an uplifting experience for daytime use.

Understanding terpenes can revolutionize how you approach herbal and cannabis products, allowing you to tailor your choices based on desired effects. By focusing on terpene profiles rather than just cannabinoids, you can create a more personalized and holistic approach to wellness. Whether it’s sipping on a linalool-rich lavender tea before bed or using a limonene-infused essential oil to kickstart your morning, terpenes offer natural support for both mind and body.