Glossary · Terpene

Terpene

Terpene is the name for the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its smell and flavor, from citrus to pine to fuel. Cannabis makes them in the same resin glands that produce cannabinoids. Terpenes are also found across many plants, and they may shape how a strain feels.

Also known as: terpenes, terps, terpenoids

Type: Aromatic plant compound
Made in: Glandular trichomes (resin)
Also in: Citrus, pine, lavender, hops
Typical in flower: About 1-4% by dry weight

Terpenes are the aromatic compounds behind every smell you notice when you open a jar of flower. Citrus, pine, diesel, berry, and earthy musk all come from terpenes. They occur throughout the plant world, in lemon rind, pine needles, lavender, and hops, and cannabis is especially rich in them. Researchers have identified well over 100 terpenes in cannabis, though only a handful show up in amounts large enough to drive a strain's aroma.

Where terpenes come from

Cannabis makes terpenes in its trichomes, the tiny sticky glands that frost the surface of the buds. Those same resin glands also produce cannabinoids like THC and CBD, so aroma and potency are built in the same place. Terpenes are volatile, meaning they evaporate easily. Heat, light, and time break them down, which is why fresh flower stored cool and dark holds its scent and flavor longer.

Why terpenes matter to a shopper

Two products can share the same THC percentage and still feel and smell completely different. That difference often comes down to the terpene profile. Terpenes are the heart of the entourage effect, the idea that cannabinoids and terpenes work together to shape the overall experience rather than THC acting alone. Many shoppers pick by aroma first, trusting their nose more than the number on the label.

·Myrcene: earthy, musky, often associated with a relaxed feel
·Limonene: bright citrus, often associated with an uplifted mood
·Beta-caryophyllene: peppery and spicy
·Alpha-pinene: fresh pine and forest
·Linalool: floral lavender

How terpenes show up on a NY label or menu

Lab-tested products often list a total terpene percentage alongside THC, plus a breakdown of individual terpenes on the Certificate of Analysis. In flower, total terpenes commonly land somewhere around 1 to 4 percent by dry weight, and the terpenes listed first are usually the most dominant. The terpenes present above roughly half a percent tend to define how a strain smells and tastes.

Do terpenes get you high?

Terpenes are not intoxicating on their own. They shape aroma and flavor, and many people feel they influence the character of a high alongside cannabinoids like THC. Think of terpenes as the seasoning and THC as the main ingredient. Effects may vary. Please consume responsibly, and these products are for adults 21 and older.

FAQ · Terpene

What are terpenes in cannabis?

Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its smell and flavor, from citrus to pine to diesel. They are made in the same resin glands as THC and CBD, and many people feel they help shape how a strain comes across.

How can I use terpenes to pick a strain?

Trust your nose and read the terpene list on the label. A citrusy limonene profile reads bright, while an earthy myrcene profile reads mellow. Picking by aroma often matches your experience better than chasing the highest THC number. Effects may vary.

Why does fresh cannabis smell stronger?

Terpenes are volatile, so they evaporate and break down over time when exposed to heat, light, and air. Flower kept cool, dark, and sealed holds its terpenes longer, which is why fresh, well-stored product usually smells and tastes more intense.