Terpene Encyclopedia

Best known from chamomile, bisabolol has a delicate floral aroma with hints of sweetness. It is prized in skincare for its anti-irritant properties and in cannabis for its potential to enhance the absorption of other compounds.

View profile →

Geraniol produces a beautiful rose-like floral aroma and is widely used in perfumery. In cannabis, it may have neuroprotective properties and has shown antioxidant effects in research.

View profile →

Humulene gives cannabis its hoppy, earthy character and is also prominent in hops — the plant used to brew beer. It is notable as an appetite suppressant, making it unique among cannabis terpenes.

View profile →

Limonene is responsible for the bright citrus aroma in many cannabis strains. Research suggests it has mood-elevating and anti-anxiety properties, and it may enhance the absorption of other terpenes through skin and mucous membranes.

View profile →

Linalool is the terpene responsible for lavender's distinctive floral scent. It has well-documented calming and anxiolytic properties, making it a key contributor to the relaxing effects of many cannabis strains.

View profile →

The most abundant terpene in cannabis, myrcene produces earthy, musky notes with a hint of tropical fruit. It enhances THC permeability across the blood-brain barrier and contributes to the sedative "couch-lock" effect associated with many indica strains.

View profile →

Nerolidol is found in neroli, ginger, and jasmine and contributes a subtle woody, floral fragrance. It has documented sedating properties and can enhance the skin penetration of other compounds.

View profile →

Ocimene contributes sweet, herbal, and woody notes to cannabis strains. It is found in many flowers and fruits and is associated with uplifting effects. Research has identified potential antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

View profile →

Terpinolene has a complex, multifaceted aroma that is fresh, piney, floral, and herbaceous simultaneously. It is commonly found in sativa-dominant strains and is associated with uplifting, energetic effects.

View profile →

Named after Valencia oranges, valencene contributes a fresh, sweet citrus aroma to cannabis strains. It has shown anti-inflammatory properties in research and is used as a natural insect repellent.

View profile →

The most widely encountered terpene in nature, α-Pinene produces a fresh pine forest aroma. It may counteract some of the short-term memory impairment caused by THC and acts as a bronchodilator.

View profile →

Uniquely, β-Caryophyllene is the only terpene known to directly bind to cannabinoid receptors (CB2), giving it anti-inflammatory properties without psychoactive effects. It contributes a spicy, peppery aroma.

View profile →