Terpenes

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis and thousands of other plants. They give each strain its distinctive smell and taste. Beyond aroma, terpenes may influence the overall character of a cultivar through the entourage effect — the theory that cannabinoids and terpenes work together synergistically.

Myrcene (earthy, musky — relaxing), caryophyllene (peppery, spicy — the only terpene known to interact with cannabinoid receptors), limonene (citrus — uplifting), pinene (pine — alertness), and linalool (floral — calming) are the five most abundant terpenes documented in the UK archive. Terpene data is drawn from lab reports where available and observational notes otherwise.

While research is ongoing, terpenes are thought to modulate and enhance the effects of cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Myrcene is associated with sedation and relaxation, limonene with mood elevation, pinene with mental clarity, and linalool with calming. This interaction is known as the entourage effect.

The entourage effect is the theory that cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and terpenes work together synergistically, producing effects greater than any single compound alone. This is why two strains with the same THC percentage can feel quite different — their terpene profiles shape the overall experience.

If you prefer relaxing, sedating effects, look for strains high in myrcene and linalool. For uplifting, energetic experiences, seek out limonene and pinene-rich cultivars. Browse the terpene directory below — each terpene page lists every cultivar in the archive where that compound has been recorded.