What Are Cannabis Terpenes? Explained

If you’ve ever cracked open a jar of cannabis flower and been hit with a wave of citrus, pine, or even peppery funk, you’ve experienced terpenes in action. But what are cannabis terpenes, and why are they so important when it comes to your cannabis experience?

At Dryden Dispensary, we get this question all the time. Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned enthusiast, understanding terpenes can help you better choose strains that match your desired effects, flavor preferences, or even mood.

Let’s break down what terpenes are, how they work, and why they matter more than you might think. And if you’re in the Finger Lakes region and are looking for high quality cannabis, come on by.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They’re what give lavender its relaxing scent, citrus fruits their zest, and pine trees their fresh, woodsy aroma. In cannabis, terpenes do the same—they shape how a strain smells and tastes.

But terpenes do more than just make weed smell good.

They’re also believed to influence the effects of different cannabis strains. That means the same amount of THC might feel calming or energizing depending on the terpene profile.

In fact, terpenes are a major part of what people refer to as the “entourage effect,” which is the theory that cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) work better when combined with other cannabis compounds, including terpenes.

Where Do Terpenes Come From?

Terpenes are produced in the trichomes of the cannabis plant—those tiny, crystal-like structures you see on the flower. Trichomes are also responsible for producing cannabinoids, so it’s no surprise they’re chemical powerhouses.

Different genetics, growing conditions, and curing processes can all influence a plant’s terpene content. That’s why two batches of the same strain might smell a little different depending on how they were grown.

6 Common Cannabis Terpenes (And What They Might Do)

There are over 150 different terpenes in cannabis, but a few show up more regularly than others. Here’s a quick guide to 6 of the most popular terpenes and their potential effects:

1. Myrcene

• Aroma: Earthy, musky, clove-like

• Found In: Mangoes, thyme, lemongrass

• Potential Effects: Relaxing, sedating

• Common In: Indica strains like Granddaddy Purple

Myrcene is one of the most common cannabis terpenes and is often linked to that classic “couch-lock” feeling.

2. Limonene

• Aroma: Citrusy, lemon, orange

• Found In: Citrus peels

• Potential Effects: Uplifting, stress-relieving

• Common In: Strains like Super Lemon Haze, Wedding Cake

If you’re looking for something with feel-good vibes, limonene-rich strains might be your jam.

3. Pinene

• Aroma: Pine, fresh forest

• Found In: Pine needles, rosemary, basil

• Potential Effects: Alertness, memory retention

• Common In: Jack Herer, Blue Dream

Pinene may help you feel focused and energized. It's a go-to for daytime use.

4. Linalool

• Aroma: Floral, lavender

• Found In: Lavender, mint, cinnamon

• Potential Effects: Calming, anti-anxiety

• Common In: Amnesia Haze, LA Confidential

Feeling anxious or stressed? Linalool-heavy strains can help dial it down.

5. Caryophyllene

• Aroma: Peppery, spicy, woody

• Found In: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon

• Potential Effects: Anti-inflammatory, soothing

• Common In: GSC (Girl Scout Cookies), Bubba Kush

Fun fact: Caryophyllene is the only terpene that can also act like a cannabinoid, binding to CB2 receptors in your body.

6. Humulene

• Aroma: Hoppy, earthy, woody

• Found In: Hops, sage, ginseng

• Potential Effects: Appetite suppressant, relaxing

• Common In: White Widow, Headband

If you’re looking for a mellow vibe without the munchies, humulene may be the terp for you.

How Do Terpenes Affect Your High?

Terpenes don’t get you high on their own, but they can influence how a strain makes you feel. For example, two strains with the same THC level might feel totally different if one is high in myrcene (chill and sleepy) and the other is packed with limonene (energizing and happy).

This is why shopping by terpene profile is becoming more common. It's not just about THC anymore, it’s about the whole chemical makeup of the plant.

Some researchers even believe terpenes may modulate the effects of THC, reducing anxiety or increasing euphoria depending on the combo. While more studies are needed, early research is promising.

Want to dig deeper? This article from Healthline has a great breakdown of terpene effects and scientific insights.

How to Read a Terpene Profile

Many licensed dispensaries, including Dryden Dispensary’s New York menu, provide lab results that list terpene percentages alongside THC and CBD levels. Here’s what to look for:

• Top 3 Terpenes: Usually the most dominant aromas/effects

• Total Terpenes %: Often ranges between 1–4%

• Cannabinoid Content: Check how the terpenes complement the THC/CBD ratio

Not sure where to start? Our friendly staff can help you find strains that match your preferred terpene profile and desired effects.

Terpenes and Consumption Methods

Wondering if terpenes are affected by how you consume cannabis? The answer is yes.

Smoking & Vaping

Smoking and vaping preserve terpenes better than high-heat methods. However, vaping at lower temps (around 315–400°F) is ideal for experiencing terpene flavors and effects. Learn more about types of vape cartridges on our blog.

Edibles

Most terpenes don’t survive the high heat used in baking or cooking edibles, though some extracts are re-infused with specific terpenes to replicate certain effects or flavors.

Concentrates

Some live resin or live rosin products are terpene-rich, offering a more flavorful and full-spectrum experience. These are a great option if you’re chasing flavor and nuanced effects.

Terpenes, Legality, and Safety

Since terpenes are naturally occurring and found in many foods, they’re generally recognized as safe. In fact, the FDA has listed several common terpenes as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe).

Still, it’s smart to buy from a licensed dispensary like Dryden Dispensary, where products are tested for quality, purity, and terpene content. Buying from sketchy sources could expose you to synthetic terpenes or contaminants that don’t belong anywhere near your lungs.

Terpenes are the secret sauce that give each cannabis strain its unique character. Whether you're looking for a sleepy weed strain to help you unwind or a mood-boosting pick-me-up, understanding terpenes can take your cannabis experience to the next level. They’re not just about flavor; they’re about feeling.

Visit Dryden Dispensary to Explore Terpenes in Real Life

Want to explore terpenes up close and personal? Dryden Dispensary is the go-to dispensary near Ithaca for cannabis in upstate New York. Whether you're a curious first-timer or a seasoned terp-hunter, we've got something for you.

Why do people choose us again and again?

• Convenient drive-thru pickup for fast service

• A rotating inventory of New York’s best cannabis flower, edibles, and weed vapes

• Knowledgeable staff who can help guide your terpene journey

  
  

We’re making cannabis accessible, safe, and fun. Swing by the shop or check out our online dispensary menu, and experience the difference terpenes make.