Terpene Index

Aroma: Woody, herbal, dill, pine

A monoterpene isomer of alpha-pinene with a woodier, more herbal character. Found in pine needles, rosemary, basil, and parsley. Contributes depth and a dill-like herbaceousness distinct from the sharper pine of alpha-pinene.

Aroma: Floral, sweet, chamomile, honey

Alpha-bisabolol is a gentle, floral terpene best known as the primary component of chamomile essential oil. In cannabis, it contributes subtle sweet and floral notes. Research highlights its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-healing properties, making it valuable in both therapeutic cannabis and cosmetics.

Aroma: Menthol, camphor, herbal, minty

Borneol is a bicyclic monoterpenoid with a sharp, minty camphor aroma used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It is one of the few terpenes demonstrated to improve delivery of other compounds across the blood-brain barrier, potentially enhancing the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids. Research shows borneol has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, and it may help reduce insomnia.

Aroma: Damp earth, fir needles, woody, musky

Camphene is a bicyclic monoterpene with an earthy, woodsy aroma reminiscent of damp forests and fir needles. Once used as lamp fuel before kerosene, it now shows promise in cardiovascular health research. Studies suggest camphene may help reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, making it unique among cannabis terpenes for its potential heart-health benefits.

Aroma: Spicy, peppery, woody

Spicy, peppery terpene that binds to CB2 receptors

Aroma: Sweet, cedar, cypress, pungent

Delta-3-carene is a bicyclic monoterpene with a sweet, pungent aroma reminiscent of cedar, cypress, and pine. It is notable for its potential role in bone health — research suggests it may stimulate bone growth and repair, making it relevant for conditions like osteoporosis. Delta-3-carene is also known for its drying effect on mucous membranes, which may explain why some cannabis strains cause dry mouth and red eyes more than others.

Aroma: Minty, cooling, eucalyptus, camphor

Also known as 1,8-cineole. A cooling, minty terpene prominent in eucalyptus, tea tree, bay leaves, and sage. One of the few terpenes that crosses the blood-brain barrier. Associated with mental clarity and respiratory relief.

Aroma: Spicy, clove, sweet, woody

Found in cloves, cinnamon, basil, and bay leaves. Known for its warm, spicy aroma and potent analgesic properties. Used in traditional dentistry as a natural numbing agent.

Aroma: Rose, citronella, peach, floral

Geraniol is an acyclic monoterpenoid with a sweet, rose-like aroma found in geraniums, roses, and lemongrass. It is widely used in the fragrance industry and as a natural mosquito repellent. In cannabis, geraniol contributes floral sweetness and may offer neuroprotective benefits. Research suggests it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential antitumor properties.

Aroma: Piney, woody, rose, earthy

Guaiol is a sesquiterpenoid alcohol with a complex piney, woody aroma and subtle floral rose undertones. Unlike most terpenes which are oils, guaiol is a solid crystal at room temperature. It has a long history in traditional medicine — guaiacum wood (from which guaiol gets its name) was used for centuries to treat conditions from arthritis to syphilis. Modern research highlights its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and potential antitumor properties.

Aroma: Earthy, woody, hoppy

Earthy, woody terpene also found in hops

Aroma: Citrus, lemon, orange

Citrus-scented terpene known for mood elevation

Aroma: Floral, lavender, sweet

Floral terpene also found in lavender

Aroma: Earthy, musky, herbal, cloves

The most common terpene in cannabis, known for earthy, musky aroma

Aroma: Woody, bark, floral, jasmine, citrus

Trans-nerolidol is a sesquiterpene alcohol with a complex woody, floral aroma reminiscent of fresh tree bark and jasmine. What makes nerolidol particularly interesting is its ability to enhance skin penetration of other compounds, making it valuable in transdermal applications. Research indicates sedative, anti-parasitic, antifungal, and antitumor properties. It may also help with insomnia when combined with other relaxing terpenes.

Aroma: Sweet, herbaceous, woody

Sweet, herbal terpene with uplifting effects

Aroma: Pine, fresh, sharp, earthy

Pine-scented terpene with alerting effects

Aroma: Lilac, floral, piney, sweet

Alpha-terpineol is a monoterpene alcohol with a pleasant lilac and floral aroma, commonly found alongside pinene in cannabis. When pinene is present in high amounts, terpineol often follows as a natural biosynthetic product. Known for its relaxing and sedating properties, terpineol may contribute to the calming effects of certain strains. Research highlights its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Aroma: Piney, floral, herbal, fresh

Multi-layered aroma: floral, piney, herbal

Aroma: Citrus, orange, sweet, woody

A sesquiterpene found abundantly in Valencia oranges. Contributes bright citrus and sweet woody notes. Also found in mangoes and herbs. Research suggests anti-inflammatory and insect-repellent properties.