What Are Terpenes? How Scents and Flavors Affect Your Mood
Have you ever noticed that different cannabis strains have distinct aromas some fruity, others earthy, piney, or even spicy? Those scents come from terpenes, naturally occurring compounds found in the essential oils of many plants, including cannabis.
But terpenes do more than just make your flower smell good they also influence how you feel.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in plants like lavender, citrus, pine, and of course, cannabis. In nature, they help repel predators and attract pollinators. In cannabis, terpenes give each strain its unique scent and flavor profile.
Some of the most common cannabis terpenes include:
- Myrcene – Known for its calming effects and earthy aroma
- Limonene – A citrusy terpene associated with elevated mood
- Pinene – Found in pine trees, may support focus and respiratory health
- Linalool – Floral-scented and believed to reduce stress
The Entourage Effect
Terpenes work alongside cannabinoids like THC and CBD in what’s known as the “entourage effect.” This synergy means that a strain’s full impact depends not just on THC or CBD content, but also on the terpenes it contains.
For example, two strains with the same THC level may feel completely different depending on their terpene makeup. One might leave you relaxed and ready for bed, while another boosts your creativity and mood.
Using Terpenes to Guide Your Experience
Understanding terpenes can help you choose cannabis that fits your needs. Looking for stress relief? Try something high in linalool or myrcene. Need an energy boost? Limonene or pinene may be your best bet.
At The Flower Bowl, we display terpene profiles on many of our products. Our team is also happy to walk you through the scent, flavor, and effects of different strains so you can make a more informed choice.
