Terpenes (often incorrectly referred to as terpinoids) are the compounds found in cannabis plants that dictate the flavour and aroma. They are produced by the same gland that creates cannabinoids and can affect the smell and taste of the individual buds.
Each cannabis strain can have a unique flavour and profile, which is down to the terpenes. When different terpenes work in combination with CBD, it results in a unique experience for the user.
The term 'terpinoids' refers to the compound that is created after terpenes are subjected to a chemical modification - like heating or drying.
Terpenes aren't just found in the cannabis plant, they are also found in some fruits and flowers. Like THC, terpenes are thought to be part of the natural defence of the plant, attracting or repelling insects and their predators with their aromatic properties.
Some of the most common terpenes are:
- Limonene - Citrus aroma. Also found in citrus fruit peel, rosemary and peppermint.
- Ocimene - Sweet, herbal aroma. Also found in mint, mango, orchids and kumquats
- Myrcine - Herbal aroma. Also found in lemongrass, hops and mango.
- Pinene - Pine aroma. Also found in rosemary, dill and basil.
- Humelene - Earthy aroma. Also found in hops, basil and cloves.
- Caryophyllene - Peppery aroma. Also found in cloves, cinnamon and black pepper.
- Terpinolene - Fruity aroma. Also found in lilacs, tea tree and nutmeg.
- Linalool - Floral aroma. Also found in Lavender.