The world of cannabis from which CBD hails is filled with many interesting and science words, from Cannabidiol (the proper name of the CBD you know and love) to the subject of today’s blog: terpenes. Although you won’t find terpenes in any of our current CBD gummies or CBD oils, we’re curious about these compounds ourselves and wanted to share with all of you, too.

Many previously uncommon terms are slowly gaining popularity in mainstream wellness, but terpene might still be a relatively new term to those who are just beginning to explore the intersection of cannabis and wellness. Keep reading for a quick lesson on the compelling compounds known as terpenes!

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are, broadly speaking, natural products produced predominantly by plants. In this case, the term “natural products” refers to a category for any chemical compounds or substance produced by living organisms found in nature. When it comes to terpenes, the main effects that they produce are scents.

You’ll find terpenes in all kinds of foods and drinks, alongside anything that happens to be made from plant material. CBD is not necessarily known for its scents, but CBD’s more famous cousin THC certainly is. But you’re likely already familiar with terpenes for another reason, too: they’re the source of scents in essential oils.

The smell of cannabis is probably one of its most well-known attributes, so finding out about terpenes puts a face to the name. Over 100 unique terpenes have been found in the cannabis plant. Different strains tend to have their own type and composition. The difference between fruity, citrusty, woodsy, and even musky scents? All thanks to terpenes!

Types of Terpenes

Terpenes are natural compounds found in hemp. They affect the scent, flavor, and how the body responds to each product. Terpenes are not just for aroma. They also play a key role in how a product feels and how it supports wellness. Each terpene has a distinct effect and works best in certain situations. Understanding how they function can help you choose the right CBD formula for your needs.

Pinene

Pinene gives off a clean, fresh pine scent. It is one of the most common terpenes in nature and appears in plants like rosemary and basil. In hemp, pinene is linked to mental alertness and focus. It may support memory and help you feel more present. For those who want to stay clear-headed without feeling sleepy, pinene is often part of daytime CBD blends.

Limonene

Limonene carries a bright citrus aroma, similar to oranges and lemons. It is often associated with an uplifted mood and emotional balance. Some users find that limonene helps ease tension and promotes a more positive outlook. It is commonly used in formulas that support focus, motivation, and stress relief during the day.

Linalool

Linalool has a soft, floral scent similar to lavender. It is known for its calming effect and may help reduce stress and support deeper sleep. Linalool interacts with the nervous system to promote relaxation without creating a heavy or sedated feeling. It is often found in CBD products made for evening use or before bed.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene has a spicy, earthy scent that reminds many people of black pepper and cloves. What sets it apart from other terpenes is its ability to interact directly with CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. This makes it valuable for people seeking support for physical discomfort or inflammation. Caryophyllene is often used in recovery formulas or products aimed at reducing tension in the body.

Myrcene

Myrcene is earthy and musky, with subtle notes of cloves. It is one of the most abundant terpenes in hemp and is often found in high concentrations. Myrcene is linked to deep relaxation and may help with occasional sleeplessness or physical restlessness. It works best when the goal is to unwind or calm down after a long day. It also supports the effects of other calming cannabinoids, including CBD and CBN.

Humulene

Humulene has a woody, herbal scent and appears naturally in hops, sage, and coriander. It has been studied for its potential to reduce appetite and support a healthy inflammation response. In CBD blends, humulene may help balance the body after exercise or physical strain. It is often found in formulas created for recovery and overall physical wellness.

Terpinolene

Terpinolene has a clean, slightly fruity aroma with floral and herbal undertones. It is less common than other terpenes but plays an important role in balanced blends. Terpinolene may offer a mix of calm and alertness, helping the body stay centered without feeling too energized or too relaxed. This terpene fits well in wellness routines focused on steady energy and emotional ease.

Terpenes, CBD, and THC

Terpenes, CBD, and THC are three of the most important natural compounds found in the hemp plant. Each plays a unique role in how a product works and how it affects the body.

CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-intoxicating compound. It does not cause a high and is often used to support calm, focus, and rest. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), on the other hand, is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It can cause a feeling of euphoria or A mental shift. In federally legal hemp products, THC is present only in trace amounts, usually less than 0.3 percent.

Terpenes work alongside both CBD and THC to shape the overall experience. They do not interact with the body the same way cannabinoids do, but they can influence how the effects feel. For example, limonene may make a CBD formula feel more uplifting. Linalool can bring a calming effect. When used together, terpenes and cannabinoids may enhance each other through what is known as the entourage effect.

The way a product is formulated, whether it is broad-spectrum, full-spectrum, or CBD isolate, determines how much interaction occurs between these compounds. Broad-spectrum products contain CBD and terpenes but no THC. Full-spectrum products contain all three, including legal trace levels of THC. CBD isolate contains only pure CBD, without any other active compounds.

How to Maximize the Benefits of Terpenes

To get the most out of terpenes, it helps to understand how they interact with other compounds in hemp and how your body responds to them. Terpenes work best when they are part of a full or broad-spectrum CBD formula. These products allow the natural plant compounds to work together, which may produce a more noticeable and balanced effect.

Pay attention to the terpene profile in each product. If your goal is to relax, look for formulas that include calming terpenes like linalool or myrcene. For energy or focus, products with limonene or pinene may offer more support. Many brands include lab reports or product descriptions that mention the dominant terpenes in each blend.

Timing also matters. Some terpenes support daytime focus, while others are better for evening use. Choose your product based on when you plan to take it and how you want to feel. A morning formula with pinene and CBG may help you stay sharp. A nighttime blend with linalool, CBN, and myrcene may support better sleep.

Consistency is another key factor. Taking a product regularly allows your body to build a rhythm with the plant compounds. Track how you feel and adjust as needed. Some people respond quickly to certain terpenes. Others may need more time to notice the effects.

Finally, store your CBD products properly. Terpenes are sensitive to heat, light, and air. Keep oils, gummies, and topicals in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. This helps preserve the quality and effect of each terpene.

Can Terpenes Make You “High”?

Terpenes do not make you feel high. They do not have psychoactive effects like THC. While terpenes can change how a product smells or feels, they do not cause euphoria, altered perception, or any mental shift associated with cannabis intoxication.

What terpenes can do is influence the experience of cannabinoids. For example, when used with CBD or THC, some terpenes may enhance feelings of calm or alertness. Others may support relaxation or focus. This influence is part of the entourage effect, where multiple compounds from hemp work together to shape how the body responds.

Even though terpenes can change the mood or tone of a product, they do not affect the brain in the same way THC does. You can use products rich in terpenes with confidence, knowing they support your wellness without changing your state of mind.