top of page

Top 10 List of Terpenes Commonly Found in Cannabis

Updated: Nov 28, 2022


By Therin Miller | The Chronic Magazine


Terpenes are a large and diverse class of organic compounds found in plants. They are responsible for the unique aromas of various plants and play a role in their medicinal properties. The cannabis plant is no exception and contains a wide array of terpenes. Some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis include myrcene, limonene, pinene, linalool, caryophyllene, terpinolene, humulene, nerolidol, phytol, and bisabolol. The following list of terpenes has its own unique set of benefits and effects.

Let's take a close look at each cannabis terpene profiles, what their medicinal effects are as well as the cannabis strains we can find them in.


Myrcene

Myrcene is a terpene found in cannabis that is known for its earthy, musky notes. It is also one of the most abundant terpenes in the plant, accounting for up to 50% of the total terpene content. Myrcene has been shown to have several potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Additionally, myrcene has been shown to boost the efficacy of other cannabinoids, such as THC. Given its wide range of potential benefits, myrcene is an important and abundant terpene to consider when selecting a cannabis strain. However, it is worth noting that myrcene is not exclusive to cannabis; it is also found in other plants, such as hops and thyme.


Cannabis flower high in myrcene include:

OG Kush

Agent Orange

Blue Dream

Purple Urkle

Super Silver Haze



Limonene

Limonene is a cannabis terpene with a refreshing citrusy aroma as well as it's fruity aroma. Its lemon and orange aroma is used in cleaning supplies and cosmetics. Some research suggests it may boost mood, promote weight loss, and help treat cancer.


Limonene is found in the rinds of citrus fruits. When these fruits are juiced, the essential oils that contain limonene are also extracted. D-limonene is the most common form of limonene found in nature. It's also the type of limonene in cannabis.

The benefits of limonene may be due to its ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system. This system helps regulate mood, memory, sleep, and appetite. Endocannabinoids are chemicals that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the body.


Cannabis strains that contain limonene may be helpful for depression, anxiety, and stress. Limonene-rich strains may also promote weight loss by increasing metabolism. Additionally, this terpene shows promise as an anticancer treatment.


More research is needed to determine the full extent of limonene's effects. However, this second most abundant terpene provides another example of how cannabis compounds may offer potential medical benefits.


High-limonene cannabis strains:

Banana OG

Berry White

Black Cherry Soda

Cinex



Pinene

Cannabis plants produce a variety of compounds known as terpenes. These molecules are responsible for the plant's distinctive aroma, and they also play an important role in the effects that cannabis has on the body. One of the most common terpenes in cannabis is pinene or beta pinene. Pinene is unique in that it is one of the few terpenes that is also found in pine trees. This terpene has a sharp, citrusy, piney aroma and provides several benefits when consumed. For example, pinene has been shown to improve memory and focus. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory and can help to relieve congestion and bronchitis. In addition, pinene has strong antioxidant properties and may even help to prevent cancer. All of these benefits make pinene a valuable component of cannabis.


Cannabis flower high in Pinene include:

Blue Dream

Bubba Kush

ChemDawg

Dutch Treat

Jack Herer



Linalool

Linalool is a terpene in cannabis and other plants. It's known for its floral scent and is used in a variety of products, including perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics. Linalool has also been shown to have anti-anxiety and sedative properties. In addition, linalool has been shown to be an effective treatment for seizures, inflammation, and cancer. For these reasons, linalool is a popular choice for medical cannabis patients. If you're looking for a strain of cannabis with high levels of linalool, look for varieties that are described as "linalool-rich." These strains will provide you with the most potent therapeutic effects. When it comes to selecting a product, keep in mind that not all products are created equal. Make sure to choose a product that is high-quality and contains pure linalool. This way, you can be sure that you're getting the most benefit from this powerful terpene.


Cannabis strains high in Linalool:

Mazar I Sharif

Do-Si-Dos

Wedding Mints #13

Scooby Snacks

Zkittlez



Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is a terpene in cannabis plant that is known for its peppery aroma. Caryophyllene is also found in black pepper, cloves, and Sichuan pepper. This terpene interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system to provide anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Caryophyllene is thought to be one of the most promising terpenes for medical use due to its ability to target specific receptors in the brain that are linked to pain relief. In addition, caryophyllene is being studied for its potential therapeutic effects on anxiety, depression, and addiction. While more research is needed to confirm the clinical efficacy of caryophyllene, this terpene shows great promise as a natural remedy for a variety of conditions. Caryophyllene is unique as it can be primary and secondary terpenes.


Strains with caryophyllene include:

GSC

Sour Diesel

Amnesia Haze

Super Silver Haze

Gelato



Terpinolene

Cannabis terpene Terpinolene is known for its fresh, floral aroma. It's often used in perfumes and soap and can be found in some essential oils. This terpene is also found in abundance in certain strains of cannabis, especially sativas. Terpinolene is known to provide a range of benefits, including relaxation, stress relief, and pain relief. In addition, this terpene is thought to have antipsychotic and anticancer properties. While more research is needed to confirm these effects, there is evidence that Terpinolene may be a valuable addition to your wellness routine.


Terpinolene-dominant strains are rare but you can still find it in some strains like:

Dutch Treat

Jack Herer

Ghost Train Haze

Golden Goat



Humulene

Humulene is a cannabis terpene that is sometimes referred to as "hoppy." It is found in many different strains of cannabis, as well as in hops (the flowers of the Humulus lupulus plant). Humulene has a woody, earthy aroma and is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, humulene is known as an appetite suppressant. This makes it a popular choice for people who are trying to lose weight or manage their weight. Humulene is also used in some traditional Chinese medicine formulations.


Humulene will not be a primary terpene but you will find it in these strains:

Death Star

Amnesia Haze

Thin Mint GSC

Original Glue

Candyland



Nerolidol

Nerolidol is a terpene that has a woody, floral aroma and is found in both Indica strains and Sativa strains. This terpene is thought to have anti-inflammatory effects, antifungal properties, and anti-anxiety properties. Studies have shown that nerolidol can be effective in treating conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne. It may also help to boost the immune system. In addition to its medicinal benefits, nerolidol is also used in perfumes and cosmetics. When inhaled, this terpene has been shown to increase alpha waves in the brain, which are associated with relaxation. For these reasons, nerolidol is an important terpene in the cannabis plant and has a wide range of potential applications.


Nerolidol is not as much a common terpene as the others on this list you can find it in:

Bubba Kush

Chem Dawg

GSC

Island Sweet Skunk



Phytol

Phytol is a terpene that is commonly found in cannabis plants. It has a woody, earthy scent and is also present in green tea. Phytol is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and it has been shown to help reduce anxiety and stress levels. Additionally, phytol is a potent antioxidant, making it an effective tool in the fight against free radicals. Free radicals are damaging molecules that can cause cell damage and lead to premature aging. By neutralizing free radicals, phytol helps to protect cells and keep the skin looking young and healthy. Therefore, phytol is an important terpene for both its therapeutic benefits and its anti-aging properties.


Strains That Contains Phytol include:

Sour Diesel

OG Cheese

Strawberry Diesel

OG Kush


Bisabolol

Cannabis terpene bisabolol is a compound found in the hemp plant. It's also found in chamomile flower, which is why it has a calming effect. Bisabolo is anti-inflammatory and has been shown to reduce redness and irritation. It's also an antioxidant, so it can help protect the skin from damage caused by *free radicals. In addition, bisabolol has antifungal and potent antibacterial properties, making it an effective treatment for acne. There are a lot of cannabis strains where bisabolol can be found as a secondary terpene.

*The body produces free radicals as a by-product of normal metabolism, and they can also be generated by exposure to environmental toxins, such as cigarette smoke and ultraviolet light. Free radicals are thought to play a role in the development of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. The body has several mechanisms for dealing with free radicals, but these systems can become overwhelmed if there is too much exposure to them. antioxidants are substances that can help to neutralize free radicals and prevent cellular damage. Some antioxidants are found naturally in different terpenes in cannabis, and foods, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene. Others are available in supplement form.


Cannabis strains that have higher amounts of bisabolol:

Pink Kush

ACDC

Ice Cream Cake

Cotton Candy Kush

Moonshine Haze


So what are marijuana terpenes? In short, these tiny little molecules have a big responsibility and a wide range of therapeutic benefits, and they can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions. In addition, terpenes also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them valuable for both their medicinal and cosmetic applications.

The list of terpenes each has its own unique set of benefits that can be harnessed to improve your health or appearance. If you're looking to experience the full potential of cannabis therapy, it's important to understand the role that cannabis terpenes play. By choosing strains that contain high levels of specific terpenes, you can customize your treatment plan to best meet your needs.


Want to learn more about cannabis terpenes strains and how they can affect you then you might be interested in getting the 101 Cannabis Strains and Their Effects.


News (2).png
News (4).png
Check back soon
Once posts are published, you’ll see them here.
bottom of page