Myrcene
Smell: Myrcene has an earthy, musky scent with hints of clove.
Occurrence: This terpene is commonly found in hops, thyme and especially in mangoes. It is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis. In most strains, the percentage is about 0.5%, but it can be considerably higher or lower. That average is more myrcene than CBD in most cannabis strains.
Influence on high: The role of myrcene on the effects of marijuana is fairly well researched. It is known for its relaxing and calming effects and can enhance the intensity of THC. This not only leads to a long-lasting and intense experience, but also one that is more palpable in your body. You feel heavy and numb. It is often associated with the so-called "couch-lock" - the effect that leaves you glued to the couch and not going anywhere for the time being.
There is a side note to this, though: marijuana is often used in conjunction with tobacco in the form of a joint. Nicotine may be an uplifting agent, but weed and tobacco together produce another relaxing effect. What the role of myrcene in this is unknown. Strains rich in myrcene are: Auto Blue Dream, OG Kush, Auto Banana Blaze, Auto Mimosa and Auto Purple Punch.
Pineen
Smell: Pineen smells strongly of pine and rosemary.
Occurrence: This terpene is common in pine, rosemary, basil and parsley. In cannabis, it is one of the most common terpenes.
Influence on high: Pineene can brighten and focus the high, making it a good choice if you want to stay active. There are tentative indications that it can also reduce the adverse effects of THC on the brain, such as short-term memory loss.
Pineene occurs in both alpha and beta varieties, with alpha-pinene appearing most frequently in the fragrant buds of the cannabis plant. Although pineene is rarely the dominant terpene in cannabis, it is often the topper in strains such as Strawberry Cough, Harlequin, Blue Dream and Auto Trainwreck. Cannabis high in pine can give a more alert and clearer high by buffering the negative effects of THC on short-term memory and cognitive processes. As a result, users feel less "under the influence" despite the THC content. This makes pineene-rich cannabis ideal not only for sativa enthusiasts who want to smoke weed during the day and stay somewhat lucid, but also for medicinal users who want to enjoy the benefits of THC without the side effects. Another pro-tip if you're looking for a clear high: choose a strain that contains at least as much CBD as THC. It's even been reported on BBC TV that CBD inhibits the psychoactive effects like paranoia and palpitations of THC. This makes you feel a lot more relaxed. So great for beginners too!
Limonene
Smell: Limonene has a fresh, citrus-like odor.
Occurrence: Limonene is commonly found in the peels of citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges and limes. It is also a common terpene in marijuana.
Influence on high: Limonene is known for its uplifting and energizing effects. When combined with THC, it can promote an upbeat and happy high, making a strain rich in limonene ideal for daytime use.
Limonene is often prominent in various sativa-dominant strains. It is known for its fresh, sour aroma often associated with the diesel family. Strains such as Auto Sour Diesel, Chemdawg, Auto Gelato, CBD Kush, Durban Poison and Jack Herer all have high levels of limonene, with it making up more than 20% of the terpene profile.
While limonene by itself does not cause a high, when combined with THC it can produce an uplifting and upbeat effect. It is best known for its potentially anxiety-reducing and relaxing properties, although hard evidence is still lacking to confirm this. Limonene can increase levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, contributing to a positive mood. These properties make limonene an important terpene for those seeking an energizing and refreshing cannabis experience.
Humulene
Scent: Humulene has an earthy, woody scent with spicy notes.
Occurrence: This terpene is common in hops, cilantro and basil.
Influence on high: Humulene can help balance the effects of THC by providing an earthy and calming influence. It can contribute to a deep and relaxing high.
Humulene is a terpene commonly found in the hop plant (Humulus lupulus). This terpene is also present in cannabis, which makes sense given that hops and cannabis are related. Humulene contributes to the characteristic spicy smell of many cannabis strains. This smell can be compared to that of a sawmill, where the aroma of freshly cut wood is strongly present. In addition, humulene is also an important aroma component in specialty beers, where it contributes bitter and aromatic properties.
Although humulene is not always the dominant terpene in cannabis, it can still have a significant presence in some strains. Well-known strains that contain high levels of humulene include Blueberry Headband, Gorilla Glue, Girl Scout Cookies and Auto Gelato. Interestingly, humulene often co-occurs with caryophyllene, and in the past was even referred to as α-caryophyllene because of its similarity in structure and odor.
The effect of humulene on the high of cannabis is complex and depends on its interaction with other terpenes and cannabinoids. In traditional Chinese medicine, humulene-rich ginseng is used to increase energy and stamina, while hop extracts containing humulene are actually used to promote sleep. In cannabis strains such as Girl Scout Cookies, humulene provides a balance between physical relaxation and euphoria, while Gorilla Glue is known for its strong relaxing effect combined with an uplifting mental state. As a result, humulene seems to contribute to both relaxation and mental stimulation, but this requires further research to fully understand.
Linalool
Fragrance: Linalool has a floral, lavender-like scent with slight herbal undertones.
Occurrence: Linalool is common in lavender, mint and cinnamon.
Influence on high: Linalool is known for its calming and relaxing effects. Lavender essential oil consists largely of linalool, which has been used for centuries to help us sleep and calm down. When combined with THC, it can help reduce stress and tension, resulting in a mellow, calming high.
Linalool is also found in birch bark and more than 200 other plant species. Everyone ingests about 2 grams of linalool annually through food, which is quickly processed by the body without being left behind.
Linalool itself has stress-relieving and anxiety-reducing properties and is believed to relax muscles, contributing to its stoned effect. But then we are talking about concentrations in essential oils. It is likely that linalool has a weaker relaxing effect in cannabis. But when combined with THC, CBD and myrcene, it can give you a chill body stone and a broad smile. Only a handful of strains contain linalool in significant amounts, such as Grandaddy Purple, Amnesia Haze and Master Kush.
Caryophyllene
Smell: Caryophyllene has a spicy, peppery smell with woody notes.
Occurrence: Caryophyllene is common in black pepper, cloves and cinnamon. It is also present in many cannabis strains.
Influence on high: It can complement the high of THC by providing a feeling of warmth and well-being without enhancing the psychoactive effects.
Caryophyllene, also known as β-caryophyllene (BCP), is a common terpene in cannabis that is responsible for a pungent and spicy smell. This terpene gives cannabis strains a recognizable aroma, which can also be found in black pepper, basil, oregano, cloves and cinnamon, for example. If you have ever inhaled the pungent smell of fresh black pepper or smelled diesel at a gas station, you have experienced the distinctive smell of caryophyllene. Caryophyllene has been thoroughly researched and has several useful properties.
Caryophyllene is unique among terpenes because it behaves like a cannabinoid in the body by binding to the CB2 receptor, just like CBD. This means the effect of THC, which binds to the CB1 receptor, moves more to the head rather than the body, making you feel more high than stoned.
Although caryophyllene does not itself cause a high, it has a wide range of potential benefits. Caryophyllene is common in weed strains such as Bubba Kush, Glue Gelato Auto, Girl Scout Cookies, Auto Colorado Cookies, Auto Gelato, Master Kush and Auto Chemdawg, which are known for their peppery and diesel-like aroma.
Ocimeen
Scent: Ocimeen has a sweet, floral fragrance with citrusy undertones.
Occurrence: Ocimeen is common in mint, basil and orchids.
Effect on high: Ocimeen can promote an uplifting and energetic high. It works well with THC to provide a refreshing and stimulating experience.
Ocimeen is a terpene that is abundant in some cannabis strains while virtually absent in others. Although ocimeen is never the dominant terpene, it still plays an important role in the terpene profile of several strains. You recognize it by a sweet, floral and spicy smell, which makes it popular in the perfume industry. Ocimeen occurs naturally in plants such as orchids, pepper, bergamot and mangoes. It also contributes to the cannabis plant's natural defense system, as aphids avoid the smell of ocimeen. By the way, if that bothers you: put lavender or basil near your cannabis plant to chase aphids out of your cannabis plant!
The influence of ocimeen on the high of cannabis has not yet been fully studied. What is notable is that ocimeen is often found in sativa-dominant strains such as Green Crack and Purple Haze, which are known for their uplifting and euphoric effects. However, there is no scientific evidence yet that directly demonstrates that ocimeen is responsible for these effects. This makes it plausible that ocimeen plays a supporting role in the entourage effect of cannabis, with the combination of different terpenes and cannabinoids collectively determining the nature of the high.
Terpinolene
Smell: Terpinolene has a complex odor that can be described as floral, spicy and slightly citrusy. This scent makes it a popular ingredient in the perfume industry.
Occurrence: Terpinolene is common in jasmine, tea, apples, lemongrass and ginger. It is a terpene found in many different plants.
Influence on high: Terpinolene has a relaxing effect when combined with THC and CBD, although specific research on its narcotic effects is limited. Strains high in terpinolene, however, are known for their sedative properties, contributing to deep relaxation.
Terpinolene is also called terpinene and is a terpene found in almost all cannabis strains, but usually in small amounts. Although terpinolene is rarely dominant, there are some THC-rich strains with higher levels of this terpene, such as Jack Herer, Auto Pineapple Express, Utopia Haze, King's Kush Auto CBD and Auto Jack.
Borneol
Smell: Borneol has a minty, camphor-like odor.
Occurrence: This terpene is common in ginger, rosemary, mint and camphorwood. It is also present in some cannabis strains.
Influence on high: Borneol has a calming effect and can help clear the mind. When combined with THC, it can contribute to a relaxing and refreshing high.
Campheen
Smell: Campheen has a pungent, herbaceous smell with pine-like notes.
Occurrence: Campheen is common in cloves, pine needles, turpentine and some spices.
Influence on high: Campheen can contribute to a refreshing and stimulating high when used together with THC. It can also help clear and focus the mind.
Cedrene
Smell: Cedrene has a woody, earthy scent reminiscent of cedar.
Occurrence: This terpene is common in cedar and other conifers.
Influence on high: Cedrene has a calming effect and can help relax the mind. When combined with THC, it can contribute to a calming and grounding body stoned.
Valencene
Smell: Valencene has a sweet, citrusy smell with undertones of orange.
Occurrence: Valencene is commonly found in oranges and other citrus fruits.
Influence on high: Valencene can promote an uplifting and energetic high when used together with THC. It is ideal for daytime use or when you need a boost.
Delta-3-Careen
Smell: Delta-3-Careen has a sweet, pungent smell with piney undertones.
Occurrence: This terpene is common in rosemary, pine and cedar trees.
Influence on high: Delta-3-Careen can contribute to a refreshing and stimulating high. It can also help clear the mind and sharpen the senses.
Eucalyptol
Smell: Eucalyptol has a fresh, minty scent with hints of eucalyptus.
Occurrence: Eucalyptol is common in eucalyptus, rosemary and sage.
Influence on high: Eucalyptol has a refreshing and invigorating effect. When combined with THC, it can contribute to a clear and energetic feeling, ideal for daytime use.
Fenchol
Smell: Fenchol has a woody, camphor-like scent with undertones of lemon.
Occurrence: This terpene is common in basil and other aromatic herbs.
Influence on high: Fenchol can help refresh and clear the mind. When combined with THC, it can contribute to a calming but refreshing high.
Geraniol
Smell: Geraniol has a sweet, floral scent reminiscent of roses.
Occurrence: Geraniol is common in roses, lemongrass and geraniums.
Influence on high: Geraniol can promote a relaxing and calming body stone. It works well with THC to provide a soothing and aromatic experience.
α-Bisabololα
Smell: α-Bisabolol has a sweet, floral scent with hints of chamomile.
Occurrence: This terpene is commonly found in chamomile and candeia trees. It is also present in some cannabis strains, although it is less common than some other terpenes.
Influence on high: α-Bisabolol is often praised for its calming effects when combined with THC. It can contribute to a relaxing and soothing body stone, making a strain rich in it ideal for evening or bedtime use.
Nerolidol
Smell: Nerolidol occurs in two different forms. Cis-nerolidol and trans-nerolidol. Both have a woody, earthy scent with floral notes.
Occurrence: This terpene is common in lemongrass, jasmine, tea, apple and ginger.
Influence on high: Nerolidol can contribute to a relaxing and calming stoned feeling. It works well with THC to promote a feeling of deep relaxation and calmness.
Phytol
Smell: Phytol has a grassy, floral scent with slight woody undertones.
Occurrence: This terpene is often found in green tea and other chlorophyll-rich plants.
Influence on high: Phytol can help to refresh and rejuvenate the mind. When combined with THC, it can contribute to a clear and refreshing high.
Sabinene
Smell: Sabineen has a spicy, pine-like scent with citrusy undertones.
Occurrence: Sabinene is common in spruce, black pepper and nutmeg.
Influence on high: Sabinene can promote a stimulating and invigorating high. It works well with THC to provide an energizing and uplifting experience.
Pulegone
Smell: Pulegone has a strong, minty smell with camphor-like undertones.
Occurrence: Pulegone is common in mints such as polei and catnip.
Influence on high: Pulegone can contribute to a refreshing and stimulating high. It can help clear and focus the mind.
Terpineol
Smell: Terpineol has a floral, lilac scent with slight citrusy notes.
Occurrence: This terpene is common in orange peel, lilac, linden blossom and apple trees.
Influence on high: Terpineol can promote a calming and relaxing high. It works well with THC to provide a calming experience.
High vs Stoned:
If you are looking for a strain that has a particular effect, a brief overview of uppers and downers may be helpful.
For a Sativa High:
For an up-high, look for a strain whose dominant terpene is one or more of the following terpenes:
Pineene
Limonene
Caryophyllene
Ocimeen
Borneol
Camphene
Valencene
Delta-3-Carene
Eucalyptol
Phenchol
Phytol
Sabinene
Pulegone
Recommendations: Auto Super Lemon Haze, Skywalker, Auto Bruce Banner, Gorilla Zkittlez
For an Indica Stoned Effect:
For a body stone, look for a strain to a terpene profile that contains one or more of the following terpenes:
Myrcene
Humulene
Linalool
Terpinolene
Cedrene
Geraniol
α-Bisabolol
Nerolidol
Terpineol
Tips: Master Kush, Auto Do Si Dos, Runtz, Auto Northern Light
Conclusion
This is just a sampling of some common terpenes in cannabis. At the time of writing, we read that Bright Labs can identify and measure as many as 62 terpenes in a sample. So terpenes play an underappreciated role in the experience of using cannabis. They influence not only the smell and taste of your weed, but also the nature of the high when combined with THC. By understanding each terpene's influence on THC action, you can better tailor the use of a particular strain to your personal preference. Whether you're looking for an energetic and sizzling high in your crown or a calming and relaxing experience that you feel down to your toenails.
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