What are terpenes? Cannabis aromas, explained
Terpenes give every strain its smell and shape its effects. Meet myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene, and the rest of the big six.
Updated July 7, 2026 5 min read
Terpenes are the aromatic oils that give cannabis its personality — the reason one jar smells like grapefruit and another like a pine forest or a fuel can. They are produced in the same resin glands as THC and CBD, and many people find they shape the feel of a strain as much as potency does.
The big six
Myrcene smells earthy and musky and is associated with relaxed, heavy effects — it dominates many indicas. Limonene is bright citrus, linked to uplifted moods. Caryophyllene is peppery and spicy, and is unique for interacting with the body's CB2 receptors. Pinene smells like pine and is associated with alertness; linalool is lavender-floral and calming; terpinolene is fruity-herbal and shows up in energetic sativas.
Why terpenes matter when you shop
Two strains with identical THC numbers can feel completely different, and terpenes are a big part of why. If a lab label lists the terpene profile, treat it as a flavor-and-feel preview. A simpler shortcut: note which strains you enjoy and look at their listed flavors — your nose usually knows.
Frequently asked questions
Do terpenes get you high?
No — terpenes are not intoxicating on their own. They contribute aroma and flavor and appear to modulate how a strain feels alongside THC.
What is the most common terpene in cannabis?
Myrcene. It has an earthy, musky aroma and is especially common in indica-leaning strains associated with relaxation.