Terpenes & Vaping: What Vapers Need to Know About These “Smelly” Essential Oils

The rich and intoxicating aroma that marijuana is known for has been engraved into your mind and your nostrils ever since you lit up that first spliff?

Since then, you’ve noticed that depending on the batch, your herbs tend to have a distinctly different taste and smell when you use them in your vape products, such vape pens and dry herb vaporizers.

Congrats — you’ve just discovered terpenes… but it’s okay to be late to the party. Millions of people were.

Cannabis terpenes are those smelly chemical compounds… and they are the bomb! They’re what give cannabis varieties their alluring scent and fragrance — earthy and slightly spicy. Or lemony with hints of berry. Or even pine-fresh. Different strokes for different strains, as they would say.

But looking at the latest scientific research, terpenes might have an even bigger role to play in the world of cannabis and vaping, especially when it comes to health benefits and the entourage effect. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the terpenes that can be found in MJ (depending on the strain, some of these will not be present in every single one), what other plants contain them, and what’s their effect on our bodies. And, of course, which ones are responsible for the best flavors!

Let’s dig in!

What Are Cannabis-Derived Terpenes?

Terpenes (pronounced tur-peens) are essential oils that are stored in the cannabis glands. In addition to these essential oils, these glands also produce more common organic compounds that you’ve likely heard about, such as CBD and pure THC.

Sometimes, terpenes are referred to as “terpenoids” but that’s not a 100% correct term. Terpenes contain only carbon and hydrogen molecules, while terpenoids are chemically modified and may contain other molecules as well. Generally, terpenoids are created naturally via oxidation but they can also be a result of lab experimentation.

As natural compounds, terpenes provide the plant in nature with aromas and certain flavors such as berries, mint, pine, honey, and so on. The development of a plant’s terpenes depends on a number of things including the weather, climate, age, type of soil, types of dabs and even time of the day. 

The cannabis plant alone can have over 100 different terpenes… as well as over 100 cannabinoids, excluding THC and CBD. However, most strains tend towards a unique composition, and, while there is some overlap, not a single strain has an identical terpene content. For example, Jack Herer is rich in alpha-pinene while Kosher Kush has a lower amount of pinene but a higher amount of limonene.

Do They Have Any Medicinal Properties?

The only thing that we can say with certainty at this point is that yes — some terpenes have medicinal properties.

However, those properties are still under scientific investigation, and we’re waiting on additional trials before we can confidently say that they can be used to treat one symptom or another.

That said, some limited research confirms that individual terpenes have unique medicinal properties.

For example, a lot of them affect the chemical processes in the brain, causing small but significant mood changes. This might indicate that they might find their way into medicines used to treat depression or anxiety, usually added to existing medications or dissolved in propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin.

In the case of cannabis terpenes, it’s important to note that their important role lies in their ability to enhance the effects of cannabinoids. Ultimately, their interactions result in a more potent, synergistic impact that THC and CBD have on our endocannabinoid system. Of course, we have a lot more questions about vape terpenes (those added to vape liquids) in particular, so we hope that scientists won’t keep us waiting much longer.

Are They Legal?

All terpenes, whether they’re derived from cannabis or fruits and other plants, are completely legal in the US and worldwide. Actually, they are a pretty standard addition to commercial oils, and even pharmaceutical drugs.

As for those derived specifically from cannabis, many manufacturers are reluctant to use them. That’s because this type of extraction could lead to increased THC levels in the finished product, and that can cause problems in several US states. Going forward, though, this will not be an issue and we’ll see cannabis-derived terpenes hitting the mainstream pretty soon. That’s because sophisticated extraction methods are being developed with which we’ll be able to extract natural terpenes without a trace of THC.

Luckily, in 2022, we’re seeing more and more terpenes added to THC and CBD vape carts and other vape products. Careful, though – different ones evaporate at different temperatures and have varying boiling points. This means you’ll have to know your full cannabinoid and terpene blends to avoid destroying them with high temperatures.

12 Terpenes & Their Effects

Unfortunately, we can’t list all cannabis terpenes and their effects in this post. The reason is two-fold: a) we don’t know much about many of these aromatic compounds, and b) it would turn this post into a book! However, we know a lot about a dozen or so major ones so we’ll focus on them. Each is responsible for a different experience flavorwise, so see if you can spot what’s in your cannabis strain!

Myrcene

Myrcene is the most common terpene in the cannabis flower. It’s widespread and abundant in commercial cannabis, being present in more than 20% of modern cannabis strains and in different plants.

Also found in thyme, mango, and lemongrass, β-myrcene has a calming and soothing therapeutic effect. Additionally, scientific research has shown that β-myrcene can prolong the effect of cannabinoids if it’s found in sufficient quantities. It’s boiling point is 167C.

β-myrcene Effects:

• promotes relaxation
• the calming and sedative effect
• reduces pain
• stops cell mutation
• inhibits bacterial growth
• antispasmodic effect
• treats symptoms of psoriasis

Found In:

• cannabis
• mango
• thyme
• hops
• lemongrass

Limonene

This aromatic marijuana terpene can be found in various everyday products such as various cosmetics and cleaning fluids. Aside from marijuana, it can be found in lemons, oranges, and juniper berries.

When it comes to its effects and beneficial properties, the studies so far have shown promises in stress moderation, relieving heartburn and gastric reflux, as well as significant antibacterial and antifungal properties. Its boiling point is 176C.

Limonene Effects:

• enhances mood
• manages stress
• antidepressive
• acid reflux treatment
• regenerates cells and tissues
• anxiolytic properties

Found In:

• cannabis
• citrus Fruits
• juniper
• rosemary

Caryophyllene

This rather spicy flavored terpene can be found in various herbs (their terpene profile skews BC) aside from cannabis such as pepper, oregano, cinnamon, and basil, and it’s responsible for their spicy and strong musky scent.

Caryophyllene’s unique molecular structure makes it stand out among other terpenes since it can bind with the CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid system. This is why it has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Most users who are surprised with the results of vaping (or using any other consumption method) on caryophyllene-rich strains, mainly due to beneficial health effects. Its boiling point is 245C.

Beta-Caryophyllene Effects:

• relieves stress
• mood enhancer
• treats pain
• anxiolytic properties
• antidepressant 
• ulcer treatment

Found In:

• cannabis
• pepper
• cinnamon
• cloves

Terpinolene

Despite being found in numerous cannabis strains, terpinolene is not as well-known as it ought to be (mainly because it shows up in such small quantities). Nonetheless, its role in defining the smell and the taste of a strain is not to be ignored. 

Found in lilacs and nutmeg, Terpinolene is known for inducing uplifting effects. Studies have shown that it also has antibacterial and antifungal properties which is why it is commonly used as an additive in soaps and cleaning fluids.

Terpinolene Effects:

• inhibits bacterial growth
• has antifungal properties
• enhances mood

Found In:

• lilacs
• nutmeg
• cumin

Pinene

As you might guess from this terpene’s name, it’s the one that’s responsible for the refreshing smell of the pine tree. This makes it the most common terpene in the natural world. Apart from in pine needles, terpene alpha pinene can be found in basil and rosemary.

Pinene is being heavily researched at the moment but we’re far from conclusive findings. Researchers believe that it has pain-relieving, anti-anxiety, and anti-inflammatory therapeutic effects and that it might show promise when it comes to treating short-term memory loss associated with the use of THC. Its boiling point is 156C.

Pinene Effects:

• anti-inflammatory
• pain relief
• opens the airways
• anxiolytic properties
• effective as ulcer treatment
• helps with short-term memory loss

Found In:

• pine needles
• rosemary
• basil

Humulene

The spicy pleasant flavor you get from hoppy beers come from humulene – a terpene that is found in hops, ginseng, and wood, as well as in most cannabis strains.

As for cannabis, Humulene is fairly common in a vast variety of strains but appears in small relative levels when compared to other terpenes. It is what gives the plant its strong floral bouquet. 

A study from 2016 has shown that when combined with phytocannabinoids and other terpenes, humulene is efficient in fighting cancer cells. It also shows promise is a powerful antibacterial remedy.

Humulene Effects:

• possibly prevents the growth of cancer cells
• antibacterial properties
• anti-inflammatory properties
• appetite suppressant

Found In:

• cannabis
• hops
• ginseng
• wood
• sage
• Java pepper

Ocimene

Ocimene can be found in a wide variety of plants such as mangoes, kumquats, bergamot, basil, orchids, pepper lavender, hops, and numerous others. It is commercially used in the perfume and cosmetics industry since it has a sweet and floral/herbal aroma.

Multiple studies of the last decade have shown that Ocimene has strong medicinal beneficial effects. It has anti-inflammatory properties, and its effectiveness in fighting diabetes is currently being researched. 

Ocimene Effects:

• anti-inflammatory properties
• might inhibit enzymes connected with type 2 diabetes
• potentially beneficial for hypertension

Found In:

• cannabis
• mangoes
• kumquats
• orchids
• peppers
• bergamot
• basil

Linalool

A very common terpene found in numerous species in the plant kingdom such as lavender and birch, but not necessarily specific to cannabis. Only a couple of strains contain high levels of it. 

Linalool has been used over the years in traditional medicine as a sedative as well as for treating epilepsy. Some researchers also describe its pain-relieving properties, as well as the ability to act as a strong anti-inflammatory. have shown that linalool can be successful in blocking pain and acting as a powerful anti-inflammatory. 

Linalool Effects:

• enhances mood
• can be used as a sedative
• anti-inflammatory properties
• relieves pain

Found In:

• cannabis
• lavender
• birch
• goldenrods
• basil

Camphene

Camphene is that strong-smelling terpene that provides an earthy aroma mostly associated with damp wood and pine needles. It is used in the production of various oils and food aromas. Camphene has a minor presence in cannabis but, potentially, it could have major medical benefits.

Some studies show that camphene has the ability to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, as well as triglycerides. This means that it could be used as an effective treatment to stave off heart attacks and other heart episodes.

Camphene Effects:

• potentially lowers cholesterol levels
• lowers triglyceride levels
• improves heart function

Found In:

• cannabis
• rosemary
• salvia
• pine needles

Terpineol 

Responsible for the alluring scent of lilac and flower blossom, terpineol is usually found in MJ strains with high levels of pinene which can sometimes overshadow terpineol’s smell.

Terpineol is known to have relaxing and calming effects as well as antibacterial, antimalarial and antioxidant properties. Some studies also show that it has pain relieving properties, and that it can lower the occurrence and the intensity of seizures.

Terpineol Effects:

• soothing properties
• antioxidant properties
• relieves pain
• reduces the intensity of seizures
• antibacterial properties
• antimalarial properties

Found In:

• cannabis
• assa-foetida
• cardamom
• pine needles

Phellandrene

First discovered in the eucalyptus oil, Phellandrene has been used for quite a long time in Chinese traditional medicine for treating digestive disorders. One recent study found that phellandrene exhibits certain properties that inhibit the growth of tumor cells.

Found in numerous plants such as cinnamon, garlic, ginger, and parsley, Phellandrene is a common ingredient in perfumes, oils, and food flavorings.

Phellandrene Effects:

• antihyperalgesic properties
• antidepressant properties
• anti-inflammatory
• anti-cancer properties

Found In:

• cannabis
• mint
• dill
• black pepper
• pine
• lavender
• ginger grass

Geraniol

The smell of this particular terpene is reminiscent of roses and tulips. It is used in manufacturing bath bombs, soaps, and other bathroom products, as well as an ingredient in mosquito repellents. 

As for medicinal benefits, it has shown promise in the treatment of neuropathy. It has also demonstrated strong neuroprotective properties.

Geraniol Effects:

• neuroprotective properties
• antibacterial properties
• antifungal properties
• anti-inflammatory properties

Found In:

• cannabis
• rose
• geranium
• lemon

More Interesting Than Cannabinoids?

Terpenes are extremely valuable and interesting compounds. Found in numerous plants in the plant kingdom, they play a major role in defining the smell, taste, and even medicinal effects of various products. They are used in abundant products, such as foods, oils, cosmetics, hygiene supplements, as well as added to commercial cannabis products and cannabis extracts, as well as vape products. They can even be found in materials, such as rolling papers.

While there is an abundance of terpenes in commercial use that have been thoroughly scrutinized, quite a lot more studies and investigating will have to take place in order for us to have a clear understanding of all of them.

Now that you are more familiar with the bells and whistles of marijuana terpenes, you’ll be able to recognize which one is dominant in the strain that you’re using. Of course, there’s no easy way – you’ll have to train your sense of smell for this.

And, if you’re looking for a quality herb vape pen, don’t forget to contact us here at the Kind Pen — we’ll be more than happy to help you narrow down your search for the best vaping experience!