List of terpenes and effects, flavours and strains

When you’re growing cannabis, it’s not just about THC and CBD anymore. 

One of the most exciting frontiers in cultivation is understanding terpenes — the aromatic compounds that do so much more than just smell nice. 

These little chemical powerhouses play a role in the effects, flavour, and even potential therapeutic properties of your cannabis plants.

In this guide, you'll get a list of terpenes and effects — covering aroma, benefits, and the strains they’re most common in. 

Whether you're chasing an earthy aroma, something more citrusy, or a terpene with a solid pain relief profile, it's all here.

Disclaimer: Any information given on this site is for educational purposes only. Please ensure if you’re growing cannabis, you’re doing so by the law and subject to appropriate permissions and licenses of the applicable country.

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What are terpenes, and why do they matter?

Terpenes are fragrance compounds found in a wide variety of plants — from citrus fruits and pine trees to aromatic herbs and, of course, cannabis.  

Terpenes play an important role in giving cannabis its wide range of flavours and smells, from earthy scents to fruity or floral notes.  

‍But they do more than just smell good. 

Terpenes influence the endocannabinoid system, working alongside cannabinoids like THC and CBD in what’s often called the entourage effect. 

‍This means they may influence how a strain makes you feel — uplifting, sleepy, relaxed, energised, or somewhere in between.

Many terpenes also boast anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and even antimicrobial properties. 

These potential benefits are part of why more growers and consumers are paying close attention to terpene content when choosing or cultivating strains.

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List of common terpenes and benefits found in cannabis strains  

Here’s your go-to list of cannabis terpenes and effects.   

This section gives you the terpene name, aroma and flavour, documented effect, and strains it’s commonly found in.

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1. Myrcene

Aroma: 

Earthy, musky, with a sweet and earthy scent

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Effects

Relaxing, sedative effects. It may have pain-relieving properties

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Details:

Myrcene is the most common terpene. It’s abundant in many strains and plays a major role in shaping their terpene profiles. 

Commonly found in cannabis like Blue Dream, OG Kush, and Granddaddy Purple, it’s also present in aromats such as thyme and lemongrass. Outside of cannabis, you’ll find it in mangoes too. 

Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and muscle-relaxing effects, myrcene contributes to the medicinal properties that are most often used for evening cannabis consumption. 

As one of the most dominant fragrance compounds, it may also affect how terpenes interact with the body, particularly within the endocannabinoid system.

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2. Limonene

Aroma

Citrus, sweet and floral scent, bright

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Effects

Uplifting, mood-enhancing, possible anti-inflammatory effects

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Details

Limonene is one of the most vibrant aromatic compounds found in cannabis. It is best known for its intense citrus fruit aroma.  

It’s present in popular strains like Jack Herer, Super Lemon Haze, and Do-Si-Dos and is also abundant in oranges, lemons, and other aromatics. 

Limonene is often associated with properties such as stress relief, mood elevation, and the ability to reduce anxiety. 

This cannabis terpene may also aid digestion and support the body’s response to inflammation. 

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3. Pinene (Alpha & Beta)

Aroma

Sharp, fresh pine aroma, woodsy scent

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Effects

Alertness, anti-anxiety, potential memory retention

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Details

Pinene is one of the most distinctive aroma chemicals in cannabis. It delivers a fresh scent reminiscent of cypress pine, rosemary, and basil. 

As one of the most common terpenes found in nature, pinene appears in uplifting strains like Amnesia Haze, Jack Herer, and Strawberry Cough. 

This cannabis terpene is thought to act as a bronchodilator, helping open airways. It may also offer inflammation-reducing properties and support stress relief. 

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4. Linalool

Aroma

Floral, lavender, soft floral scent

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Effects

Calming, sedative effect, possible anti-anxiety properties

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Details

Linalool is one of the most soothing terpenes, contributing a delicate floral aroma to the overall profiles of specific strains. 

You’ll find it in relaxing varieties like LA Confidential and Zkittlez and familiar herbs such as lavender, mint, and cinnamon.

Known for its role in stress relief, this aromatic compound is thought to support mood regulation and provide mild antimicrobial and medicinal effects. 

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5. Beta-Caryophyllene

Aroma

Spicy, peppery, clove-like (spicy terpene)

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Affects

Analgesic properties, inflammation regulation

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Details

Beta-caryophyllene is a bold cannabis terpene with a distinctive spicy kick, commonly found in strains like Girl Scout Cookies, Sour Diesel, and Bubba Kush. 

Also present in black pepper and cloves, it’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to bind directly to CB2 receptors — making it the only terpene that behaves like a cannabinoid. 

This rare action may influence how terpenes affect the body, especially within the endocannabinoid system.

As a secondary terpene with notable therapeutic effects, beta-caryophyllene is often sought out for its potential role in managing stress and discomfort.

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6. Humulene

Aroma

Woody, earthy, subtle hops

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Effects

Appetite-suppressant, anti-inflammatory effects

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Details:

Humulene is a woody-scented cannabis terpene commonly found in hops, basil, and certain herbs. 

Within cannabis, it contributes to the aroma and potential properties of strains like Headband and Skywalker OG. 

Known for its anti-inflammatory activity and role in suppressing appetite, this secondary terpene may also assist with pain relief and fight bacterial infections. 

As one of the lesser-talked-about but still common terpenes, humulene is a fascinating example of how most terpenes engage with the endocannabinoid system and the body.

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7. Terpinolene

Aroma

Complex — floral aroma, citrusy, piney

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Effects

Uplifting, energising, antioxidant

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Details

Terpinolene is a multifaceted cannabis terpene known for its layered scent — a complex scent blending notes of pine trees, citrus fruits, and soft floral touches. 

Commonly found in strains like Jack Herer and Super Silver Haze, it also appears in lilac tree flowers, nutmeg, and tea tree. 

While less abundant than common terpenes like myrcene or limonene, this secondary terpene has notable antioxidant properties and mild antibacterial effects. 

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8. Ocimene

Aroma

Herbal, citrus, sometimes fruity scent

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Effects

Uplifting, potential antifungal effects

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Details

Ocimene is a vibrant cannabis terpene with a fresh, herbal and citrus-forward scent, occasionally carrying a mild fruity aroma. 

Found in mint, parsley, and tarragon, it’s also present in strains like Amnesia Haze and Strawberry Cough. 

As a secondary terpene, ocimene is valued for its antifungal action, potential anti-inflammatory effects, and use as a natural decongestant. 

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9. Bisabolol

Aroma

Floral, gentle, chamomile-like

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Effects

It may soothe irritation and support relaxation

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Details

Bisabolol is a soft, calming cannabis terpene known for its gentle floral scent and presence in soothing plants like chamomile. 

Found in strains such as Pink Kush and Harle-Tsu, it’s a secondary terpene often linked to anti-irritant effects and subtle therapeutic benefits. 

Bisabolol offers both anti-inflammatory effects and antimicrobial action, making it a valuable contributor to the broader beneficial effects of cannabis. 

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10. Nerolidol

Aroma

Woody, earthy aroma, fresh bark

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Effects

Sedative effects, antifungal

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Details

Nerolidol is a lesser-known cannabis terpene with a tranquil, woody character and grounding, earthy aroma. 

It is found in strains like Skywalker OG and Island Sweet Skunk and also occurs in jasmine, tea tree and lemongrass, which are known for their aromatic fragrances. 

Nerolidol offers subtle medicinal effects, particularly antifungal action, and is used as a skin penetration enhancer in topical cannabis products. 

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11. Valencene

Aroma

Orange, sweet citrus

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Effects

Energising, anti-inflammatory

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Details

Valencene is a bright and uplifting cannabis terpene with a zesty citrus aroma reminiscent of oranges, tangerines and nectarines.

It's most notably found in strains like Agent Orange and contributes to vibrant, energising profiles. 

While less common than dominant terpenes like myrcene, Valencene holds real promise—particularly through its anti-inflammatory properties. 

Also present in citrus peels, this secondary terpene may support mood elevation and general wellness. 

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12. Camphene

Aroma

Damp, woody, herbal

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Effects

It may help lower cholesterol, antioxidant

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Details

Camphene is an earthy, herbal cannabis terpene with a damp, forest-like quality. 

Found in conifer trees, camphor, and certain herbs, it appears in strains like Ghost OG and Strawberry Banana. 

As a secondary terpene, camphene offers antioxidant properties and is being studied for its potential to help manage cholesterol levels. 

It also exhibits inflammation-reducing properties and antibacterial action. 

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List of terpenes and effects chart

Here’s a handy chart with a list of terpenes and benefits for quick reference:

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Why terpene profiles matter to your grow

As a grower, understanding terpenes helps you target specific outcomes — both in terms of aroma and flavour and how your plants might affect users. 

Whether you're breeding for high beta-caryophyllene content to appeal to those seeking relief from pain or chasing citrus fruit-rich profiles for an uplifting daytime smoke, terpenes give you the control knob.

They’re also increasingly a point of interest in the cannabis market, where savvy cannabis enthusiasts look beyond THC % and care more about a plant’s complex scent, well-being effects, and potential health benefits. 

That makes terpene knowledge valuable whether you’re growing for personal use or commercial cultivation.

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How to boost and preserve terpene profiles

If you want to grow cannabis with bold aroma and flavour, protecting your terpenes is key. 

These delicate aromatic compounds can easily degrade if you’re not careful — especially during flowering, harvest, and post-harvest handling.

Environmental monitoring is one of the most effective ways to preserve terpene content. 

Temperature, humidity, and light intensity all play a role in terpene production. 

You help your plants express their full aromatic potential by keeping conditions stable and optimised.

Environment or grow room monitors like the Grow Sensor give you a live feed of your grow room’s climate, helping you spot issues early and fine-tune your environment for better results.

Once harvested, proper drying and curing are essential. 

‍Dry your cannabis slowly in a dark, cool, well-ventilated space — ideally at 15°C and 20°C (60°F - 70°F) and with a humidity of between 50% and 60%.

‍Cure your buds in airtight glass jars, burping daily for the first week or two. The ideal humidity level for curing is around 55%

Rush the process, and you risk losing the very compounds that give your flower its unique scent and effects.

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Takeaways

This complete list of terpenes and effects gives you a real-world tool to work with. 

Whether you're searching for that sweet and floral scent, building a strain with an anti-inflammatory punch, or just looking for that peppery kick from caryophyllene, you now have the know-how to pick — or grow — with purpose.

Terpenes don’t just smell good. They’re the secret sauce of cannabis, influencing how your buds taste, feel, and perform. 

So next time you're nurturing a new batch of marijuana plants, take a closer look at what’s behind that scent — your plants might be telling you a lot more than you think.

Happy growing!

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FAQs

Which terpenes have which effects?

Terpenes found in cannabis influence how different cannabis strains affect the body. 

Myrcene offers calming effects and is linked to relief of pain, while limonene—found in citrus —may reduce anxiety. 

Pinene, common in pine and cypress pine, is known for its stress relief and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Terpinolene, present in Super Silver Haze and Amnesia Haze, has antioxidant properties and a fruity scent. 

Caryophyllene, a spicy terpene found in Girl Scout Cookies and Sour Diesel, is the only terpene that binds to CB2 receptors. 

These aroma compounds contribute to medicinal properties, unique aroma, and flavor profiles in cannabis.

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Which terpene gets you the highest?

No single terpene directly gets you “high” — that’s mostly down to THC. 

However, certain terpenes found in the cannabis plant can influence your experience through the entourage effect. 

Myrcene, often found in OG Kush and Amnesia Haze, is known for its calming effects and may enhance THC absorption. 

Terpinolene and limonene, both present in Super Silver Haze, offer a more uplifting high. 

These aroma chemicals contribute to each strain’s unique terpene composition and can affect how the human body responds to different strains. 

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What terpene causes anxiety?

While terpenes don’t directly cause anxiety, some cannabis strains high in terpinolene or limonene may overstimulate sensitive users. 

These aromatic fragrances, common in strains like Super Silver Haze and Amnesia Haze, can sometimes heighten alertness, which may feel like anxiety in higher doses. 

Because terpenes interact with the endocannabinoid system, certain terpenes might trigger different responses in the body.  

It's worth exploring terpene profiles before consumption to find what works best for your needs.

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What is the mother of all terpenes?

Myrcene is often considered the “mother of all terpenes” due to its dominance in most cannabis strains and its strong influence on terpene profiles. 

As one of the primary aroma compounds and most abundant terpenes in the cannabis plant, myrcene contributes a sweet and earthy aroma and delivers well-known tranquillising effects.  

It’s commonly found in cannabis like OG Kush and Amnesia Haze. It plays a vital role in the entourage effect, where terpenes interact with cannabinoids to shape the strain’s overall impact on the human body.

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How many terpenes are there?

Scientists have identified over 150 terpenes found in cannabis, although only a handful dominate terpene profiles in most cannabis strains. 

These fragrance compounds, also present in herbs, pine trees, and citrus-scented fruits, contribute to each strain’s aroma, flavour, and therapeutic effects. 

While many cannabis strains share similar profiles, slight variations in secondary terpene content can influence pain-reducing effects, sedative effects, or appetite-suppressant action. 

‍The best-known cannabis terpenes include myrcene, limonene, and beta-caryophyllene. 

Understanding how terpenes interact with the human body is key to enhancing your cannabis experience.

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What are the negative side effects of terpenes?

While terpenes are known for their medicinal properties, they may cause irritation, headaches, or allergic reactions in some people. 

In sensitive individuals, certain terpenes found in citrus fruits, pine trees, and herbs can overstimulate the endocannabinoid system, especially during excessive consumption. 

Some fragrance compounds, like limonene or terpinolene, may even trigger anxiety instead of stress relief. 

As terpenes interact differently with the human body, it’s best to start low and monitor your response — especially when exploring other terpenes through extracts, oils, or cannabis products.

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What’s the difference between terpenes and terpenoids?

Terpenes are natural fragrance compounds found in live plants, including cannabis. 

Terpenoids are modified terpenes that have been chemically altered, usually during drying or curing, often through oxidation. 

Both affect aroma and therapeutic effects, but terpenoids tend to form post-harvest.

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