Understanding Terpenes
From citrus to pine, terpenes help shape the sensory character of cannabis.
Every strain has its own personality.
Some are bright and citrusy. Some lean earthy and herbal. Others smell like pine, fruit, spice, or flowers.
A big part of that personality comes from terpenes.
What Is a Terpene?
Terpenes are aromatic substances naturally produced by plants.
They’re responsible for many familiar scents in nature, including the citrusy aroma of lemons, the pine scent of evergreen trees, and the floral notes of lavender.
Cannabis produces terpenes too, which is why different strains can smell and taste dramatically different from one another.
Where Else Do You Find Terpenes?
If you’ve ever crushed a lemon peel, pine needles, lavender, or fresh basil, you’ve experienced terpenes.
Cannabis simply produces its own unique combinations of these aromatic compounds.
A Few Terpenes You May Recognize
Limonene
Common aroma: Citrus / lemon
Limonene is known for its bright citrus aroma and is also naturally present in the rinds of lemons, oranges, and other citrus fruits.
Myrcene
Common aroma: Earthy / herbal / musky
Myrcene is one of the terpenes commonly found in cannabis and is also present in plants such as hops and thyme.
Pinene
Common aroma: Pine / fresh / herbal
As the name suggests, pinene has the familiar aroma associated with pine needles and many herbs.
Caryophyllene
Common aroma: Pepper / spicy / wood
Caryophyllene contributes warm, spicy notes and is also found naturally in black pepper and cloves.
Linalool
Common aroma: Floral / lavender
Linalool has a soft floral aroma and is strongly associated with lavender.
Why Do Terpenes Matter?
Terpenes are one reason two cannabis products can have similar cannabinoid content yet still feel completely different from a sensory standpoint.
They influence the aroma and flavor profile of the plant, helping give each strain its own recognizable character.
That’s why looking beyond THC percentages can give you a more complete picture of the product you’re choosing.
The next time you pick up a Wildwood product, take a closer look at the strain description.
Those citrus, pine, fruit, floral, and earthy notes are telling you something.
Follow your nose. Explore the profile. Find what you like.
