Terpenes

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This terpene is most commonly found in citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges. It’s been tied to everything from reduced stress to increased energy; it may also be a natural digestive aid. Like many other terpenes, limonene seems to trigger enzymes that turn on fat burning when it’s ingested. And fat burning is the stablest form of energy production there is.

Many people credit limonene-heavy essential oils by giving them an improved clarity of mind. Hemp strains high in limonene have a similar effect.

The namesake terpene in pine trees, pinene is a known bronchodilator. That just means it opens up the lungs and makes you better at breathing! This quality makes pinene especially helpful to people with asthma.

Pinene is also calming. You can experience these same benefits by smoking or vaping hemp strains like Trophy Wife or Jack Herer. Bonus points if you decide to partake while walking through a pine forest.

Lavender, the calming and soothing smell is a terpene. Linalool is both relaxing and anti-inflammatory, and it actually calms down the nervous system to promote better health. Some research shows that linalool activates the same TRPA and TRPV channels CBD does, resulting in less inflammation and pain.

Guaiol isn’t as well-known as some terpenes, but maybe it should be. This terp shares a lot in common with pinene. It gets its name from the guaiacum plant whose bark it’s derived from; like pinene, guaiol smells woodsy and earthy.

Research shows that guaiol may be both anti-viral and anti-bacterial.

Eucalyptol is a terpene often found in eucalyptus, salvia, and hemp. Studies show it may help regulate the immune system and activate one’s innate immune response. Translation: eucalyptol could help one’s immune system avoid over-responding to short-term issues by strengthening things from the ground up.

This terpene is an interesting one. While beta-caryophyllene is commonly found within black pepper and cloves, it also makes an appearance in hemp. And research shows it binds to the very same endocannabinoid receptors as CBD — so much that researchers consider it a “dietary cannabinoid.”

This terpene is associated with reduced inflammation and a healthier nervous system.

Bisabolol is usually found in chamomile flowers. Research shows it’s anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and more. Bisabolol is said to have a delicate floral scent.

Myrcene’s presence is felt pretty much everywhere. It’s found in mangoes, thyme, basil, and hops. And hops’ botanical cousin hemp, of course. Many hemp and cannabis users favor this terpene since it plays a role in what is commonly called “couch lock.” Hemp’s myrcene content also provides relaxing results. Myrcene may reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and calm the nervous system enough to help you get the sleep you need.

Camphene might be a “minor” terpene, but what it lacks in popularity, it makes up for in benefits. Camphene may do everything from reducing cholesterol levels to protect against infection. Think of camphene’s scent as a combination of pinene’s and myrcene’s. It’s an unusual smell. This terpene is not easy to come by, and perhaps it is for good reason, you can always have too much of even a good thing.

Finally, we end our list at terpinolene. This terpene has a complex sweet + spicy scent and can be found in apples, lilacs, nutmeg, allspice, and more. Some of the more ‘earthy’ strains of hemp feature high levels of pinene and terpinolene in combination. If ingested, it may slow the growth of harmful cells, at least according to this 2013 study. True to its scent, terpinolene may also help by calming the nervous system.