Cannabis isn’t only about THC or CBD. Much of the plant’s aroma, flavour, and overall character comes from terpenes. Terpenes mean natural compounds found not only in cannabis, but also in fruits, herbs, and flowers.
If you’ve ever noticed that two cannabis flowers with similar THC levels can feel very different, terpenes are often part of the explanation. This guide breaks down what terpenes are, how they work, and why they matter – especially in cannabis grown in tropical climates like Thailand.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds produced by many plants. They are responsible for the scent of pine forests, citrus peels, lavender, and fresh herbs.
In cannabis, terpenes:
- Create the plant’s smell and taste
- Help differentiate one strain from another
- Interact with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD
- Terpenes are not unique to cannabis. They are widely used in nature to attract pollinators and protect plants from pests.
Why Terpenes Matter in Cannabis
Two cannabis flowers can have the same THC percentage and still feel very different. One may smell citrusy and uplifting, while another feels earthy and calming. Terpenes help explain why.
Terpenes influence:
- Aroma (sweet, spicy, herbal, fruity)
- Flavor when cannabis is heated or vaporized
- The overall character of the flower
Rather than focusing only on THC numbers, many people now look at terpene profiles to better understand what a particular flower is like.
Common Cannabis Terpenes Explained
Below are some of the most commonly found terpenes in cannabis, along with where they are also found in nature.
Myrcene
Aroma: Earthy, musky, herbal
Found in: Mangoes, hops, thyme
Notes: One of the most common cannabis terpenes worldwide
Limonene
Aroma: Citrus, lemon, orange peel
Found in: Citrus fruits
Notes: Often associated with bright, fresh-smelling flowers
Caryophyllene
Aroma: Spicy, peppery
Found in: Black pepper, cloves
Notes: Unique among terpenes due to how it interacts with the body
Pinene
Aroma: Pine, forest, fresh wood
Found in: Pine needles, rosemary
Notes: Common in many outdoor-grown plants
Linalool
Aroma: Floral, lavender
Found in: Lavender, coriander
Notes: Often present in small amounts
These conditions can influence how aromatic compounds develop in the plant. Many growers believe tropical environments help produce rich, expressive terpene profiles, especially in flowers grown outdoors or in greenhouse conditions.
This is one reason Southeast Asian cannabis has historically been known for strong aromas.
Terpenes vs. Cannabinoids: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to confuse terpenes with cannabinoids, but they serve different roles.
Terpenes:
- Responsible for aroma and flavour
- Found in many plants
- Do not cause intoxication
Cannabinoids:
- Responsible for primary effects
- Mostly unique to cannabis
- THC is psychoactive
Both are part of the plant’s natural chemistry, but they do very different things.
Common Myths About Terpenes
“Terpenes get you high.”
No. Terpenes are aromatic compounds and are not intoxicating on their own.
“All citrus-smelling cannabis is the same.”
Not true. Similar aromas can still come from different terpene combinations.
“More terpenes always means better quality.”
Quality depends on many factors, including cultivation, curing, and storage.
Exploring Terpene Profiles in Cannabis Flowers
Every cannabis flower has its own terpene profile, shaped by genetics, climate, and cultivation methods. While terpene charts and descriptions are helpful for understanding aromas and characteristics in theory, the easiest way to see how terpene profiles differ is by looking at real examples.
If you’d like to explore how different cannabis flowers vary in aroma and terpene composition, you can browse the flower selection at Kandy Weed Shop, where each product is presented with clear, factual information. And if you’re unsure where to start, the knowledgeable budtenders at Kandy Weed Shop can help guide you toward flowers that match your preferences. This makes it easier to connect what you’ve learned about terpenes with real cannabis flowers and your personal experience.
If you’re curious to learn more, you can browse our product catalogueto explore the terpene profile of each product in more detail.