If you’re familiar with the cannabis plant, you know it contains multiple cannabinoids. The most well-known ingredients are CBD and THC, but there are many other cannabinoids within the plant.
However, you may also be aware of terpenes. Like cannabinoids, terpenes are an essential ingredient in cannabis, but they affect a wide array of different elements like aroma, flavor, and side effects. There are over 200 terpenes in cannabis, but some are more common than others. Let’s break down the five most common terpenes.
Myrcene
This is the number one terpene in cannabis because it’s the most abundant. Myrcene primarily determines whether a cannabis strain leans more toward the Sativa or Indica side, and it offers a somewhat sweet and earthy aroma. Mangoes are another plant with lots of myrcene, just to give you some context. Health-wise, myrcene is a powerful anti-inflammatory and pain reliever.
Alpha and Beta-Pinene
This terpene is abundant in pine trees and gives these plants their distinct odor. Many cannabis strains have both types of pinene, and they will smell a bit like pine trees. Health-wise, this terpene offers relief for respiratory inflammation, such as that brought on by mild asthma. While smoke pinene-rich cannabis won’t substitute a regular inhaler, it can alleviate some symptoms.
Humulene
You’ll find humulene in hops, which are a big reason why beer tastes the way it does. Not all cannabis strains have abundant stores of humulene, but those that do will exhibit a woody and spicy flavor and aroma. Health-wise, this terpene works as an antibacterial.
Geraniol
If you have a batch of weed that smells sweet like peaches or plums, chances are it has a lot of geraniol. This terpene is present in a lot of stone fruits and gives them their distinct flavor profile. Geraniol also works well as an antioxidant.
Linalool
This terpene is a big reason why cannabis smells like it does. Linalool creates a lavender aroma, but it’s often a bit more pungent when in cannabis. Health-wise, linalool works as a sedative, so it’s more present in Indica strains than Sativa ones.
Get Your Cannabis From Foothill Wellness
As you can see, there are many valuable terpenes hidden within the cannabis plant. If you want to unlock most of these benefits, we recommend vaping instead of smoking, and we also know you need to start with the best weed possible. We have many strains available for your pleasure, so look at our stock online and contact us today!
