What Are Terpenes and What Do They Do?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that provide the flavor and smell profiles of many different plants, and studies have shown they can have their own unique effects on the human body.

When terpenes work together with other cannabis compounds like cannabinoids, they produce a variety of effects that in turn cause a range of different experiences.

This team-effort is called the “Entourage Effect,” which is a theory that describes how “Cannabinoids and terpenes blend in the human body to modify one another’s effects and, in essence, create an overall different, or "greater," efficacy…”

Specific terpenes have specific effects, and can be found in many different plants other than cannabis.

Take the terpene Ocimene for example, which has been identified as an uplifting stimulant, and can be found in mint, parsley, basil, tarragon, kumquats, mango fruits, lavender, orchid flowers, hops, and bergamot.

Another commonly found terpene is Caryophyllene. Present in many herbs and spices, including black pepper, basil, and oregano, it is believed to induce relaxation and provide stress relief.

Myrcene is seen in many plants that provide a sedative effect, and is great for relaxation and sleep.

It’s terpenes that provide cannabis users with such a wonderful time, and with many strains and terpene profiles available in today’s market, you can easily tailor your experience.

Russo, Ethan B. Mrcu, Jahan. Cannabis Pharmacology: The Usual Suspects and a Few Promising Leads. Epub 2017 Jun 5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28826544/