Cannabis isn’t just about THC and CBD. The flavor, smell, and effects of each strain are influenced by compounds called terpenes and cannabinoids—and they’re what make each strain unique.
If you've ever wondered why some strains make you feel relaxed while others leave you energized, it's because of how terpenes and cannabinoids interact. This guide will break it all down so you can make smarter choices when picking cannabis.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in cannabis that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system helps regulate mood, pain, appetite, and sleep.
How Do Cannabinoids Work?
- The ECS has two main receptors:
- CB1 receptors (found in the brain) → Affects mood, memory, and perception.
- CB2 receptors (found in the immune system) → Affects inflammation and pain relief.
- Different cannabinoids bind to these receptors in different ways, which is why THC gets you high, but CBD doesn’t.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinct smell and flavor. They’re found in many other plants too—like lavender, citrus, and pine trees.
But terpenes do more than just smell good. Some help with relaxation, while others boost focus and energy.
👉 Want a deeper dive? Check out our guide on terpenes and cannabinoids.
Key Cannabinoids and Their Benefits
Not all cannabinoids get you high. Here are the most important ones:
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
- Effects: Euphoria, relaxation, increased appetite.
- Medical benefits: Pain relief, nausea reduction, appetite stimulation.
- Side effects: Can cause anxiety or paranoia in high doses.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
- Effects: Non-intoxicating, calming, reduces inflammation.
- Medical benefits: Helps with anxiety, chronic pain, epilepsy, and sleep disorders.
- Balances THC: Reduces paranoia and anxiety from high-THC strains.
CBG (Cannabigerol)
- Nicknamed the "mother of all cannabinoids" because THC and CBD come from CBG.
- Medical benefits: May help with inflammation, gut health, and neuroprotection.
CBN (Cannabinol)
- Comes from aged THC—often found in old cannabis.
- Effects: Mildly sedative, helps with sleep.
- Medical benefits: Used for insomnia and pain relief.
Major Terpenes in Cannabis
Cannabis has over 100 terpenes, but here are the ones that matter most:
Caryophyllene
- Smells like: Black pepper, cloves.
- Effects: Anti-inflammatory, stress relief.
- Fun fact: Only terpene that acts like a cannabinoid (binds to CB2 receptors).
- Learn more about Caryophyllene here.
Geraniol
- Smells like: Roses, peaches.
- Effects: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory.
- Learn more about Geraniol here.
Limonene
- Smells like: Citrus (lemons, oranges). 🍊
- Effects: Mood-boosting, stress relief.
- Learn more about Limonene here.
Myrcene
- Smells like: Earthy, herbal, musky (also found in mangoes).
- Effects: Sedative, relaxing (often found in indica strains).
- Learn more about Myrcene here.
The Entourage Effect: How Cannabinoids & Terpenes Work Together
Ever notice that two strains with the same THC level feel completely different? That’s because terpenes and cannabinoids interact to change the effects. This is called the Entourage Effect.
Examples of How It Works:
- Limonene + THC = More energetic, uplifting high.
- Myrcene + THC = More sedative, couch-lock effect.
- Caryophyllene + CBD = Extra anti-inflammatory benefits.
This is why full-spectrum cannabis (with all terpenes and cannabinoids) often works better than THC or CBD alone.
Choosing the Right Cannabis Strain Based on Terpenes & Cannabinoids
Stop choosing weed based on just THC %. If you want the best experience, look at the terpene and cannabinoid profile.
👉 Looking for relaxation?
- Best terpenes: Myrcene, Linalool.
- Best cannabinoids: CBD, CBN.
- Example strains: Granddaddy Purple, Bubba Kush.
👉 Looking for energy & focus?
- Best terpenes: Limonene, Pinene.
- Best cannabinoids: THC, CBG.
- Example strains: Sour Diesel, Green Crack.
👉 Looking for pain relief?
- Best terpenes: Caryophyllene, Humulene.
- Best cannabinoids: CBD, THC.
- Example strains: ACDC, Harlequin.
Conclusion
Terpenes and cannabinoids are the key to your cannabis experience. Instead of just looking at THC %, try picking strains based on their full profile to get the effects you actually want.
💡 Want to learn more? Check out our deep dives into:
Now that you understand terpenes and cannabinoids, you’ll never pick a strain the same way again. 🌱
