Terpenology: Intelligently enhancing your cannabis experience

Ocimene is found in a variety of plants such as mangoes, lavender, pepper, as well as cannabis. It provides the herbal, floral and sweet notes of certain cannabis strains, oftentimes with earthy and citrus undertones. Its effects are considerably uplifting, anti-inflammatory, immune supporting, may help treat diabetic symptoms, and also contain high amounts of antioxidants.

Linalool is common in certain spices, some fungi and flowering plants such as cannabis. It provides a predominantly floral aroma that boasts a hint of spiciness. This terpene is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anti-epileptic effects, immune boosting potential, anxiety and stress-relieving properties, as well as acting as a mild sedative. It also has the potential to relieve pain and relax muscles.

Humulene is well-known for the notes that give hoppy beers their aroma and taste. It is one of the most common cannabis terpenes with a herbaceous, floral and distinctly spicy aroma. It has been used in holistic Eastern medicine for centuries for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic, energy boosting and appetite suppressant effects. Recent medical studies has shown its potential to terminate cancer cells and fight tumours.

Terpinolene is often present in small amounts and is considered one of the least-common terpenes. Its fresh aroma includes herb, citrus and floral. It contains antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-fungal qualities, radically improves insomnia, may reduce the risk of heart disease, and has the potential to play a role in inhibiting cancer cell growth.

Pinene as its name indicates, smells like pine and fir trees. Pinene is a rare terpene and few strains are abundant in it due to its prominence being environmentally influenced. It is most useful for pain, inflammation and anxiety. Pinene is also attributed as a bronchodilator. It can increase alertness, relieve short-term memory loss and combat paranoia.

Myrcene is responsible for the fragrance of beer as it is commonly found in hops. It is also conveyed in lemongrass, parsley, cardamom and mango. Myrcene is considered the most prominent terpene contained in cannabis. It is earthy, musky, peppery and spicy. It may assist with insomnia, PTSD, ADHD and act as a sedative. Myrcene may also provide anti-inflammatory effects that slow disease progression, contribute to cancerous tumour death, and contain anti-metastatic activity.

Limonene is a zesty, fruity and floral terpene found in the peels of citrus like lemon, orange, lime and grapefruit. Limonene has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat bronchitis, gallstones and heartburn. It can also be attributed for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, immune boosting potential and its potential to combat diabetes. Due to its interaction with the serotonin system, it may improve mood disorders, anxiety and stress.

Caryophyllene can be found in many herbs and spices such as black pepper, oregano and basil, transmitting a spicy, musky and warm fragrance similar to cloves and cinnamon. It has a unique ability to bind CB2 receptors to our endocannabinoid system. As a result, Caryophyllene may relieve pain, reduce addiction to alcohol, treat IBS, reduce anxiety, improve depression, act as an anti-inflammatory and it contains high amounts of antioxidants.