Did you know that THC and CBD are not the only components shaping your cannabis experience? You can find the perfect balance and still feel like something is lacking. That can happen if you don't pay sufficient attention to terpenes.
Terpenes determine the nature of your high. They can enhance or moderate THC's psychoactive properties while providing an appealing aroma. These components interact with other cannabis compounds to create a holistic experience.
A smart approach to choosing the right terpenes can help you experience euphoria and make the most out of any cannabis session. Here is what you need to know.
What Are Terpenes and How Do They Work?
Terpenes are natural aromatic compounds found in many plants and flowers (not just cannabis). They are responsible for the scents and flavors. For example, the prominent citrusy scent you feel when cutting up a lemon occurs thanks to a terpene called D-Limonene.
The purpose of terpenes is to attract pollinators and repel predators. Some of them can also protect the plant against pathogens.
The Entourage Effect
The concept of "Entourage Effect" explains that terpenes work together with cannabinoids to create a holistic effect. They can boost or soften the cannabis experience. Several studies support this theory.
For example, a study done in 2024 found that adding the terpene d-limonene alongside THC significantly reduced feelings of anxiety that THC sometimes causes. Meanwhile, another study conducted on animals showed that certain terpenes can act on elements of the body's endocannabinoid system (the same biological system that THC and CBD engage with). However, more research needs to be done to see exactly how much they contribute.
Mood and Emotions
Because terpenes define the plant's aroma and affect brain chemistry, they often play a role in how you feel during a session. Here are two ways they matter:
- Aroma-driven mood shifts: The scent of terpenes can trigger mood changes. For example, citrus scents may lift your mood while floral scents may calm you.
- Modulating cannabinoid effects: Terpenes might soften the edge from THC or help steer the overall feeling toward relaxation.
The feelings you experience during each cannabis session can be unique to you. Terpenes that work well for one person may not do the same for another. Accordingly, just like with a THC-to-CBD balance, you have to experiment until you find the best option.
Top Terpenes for Euphoria
Before you start experimenting, you need to learn more about the available terpenes. If you've never read this part of the cannabis product label, you may be surprised at the variety. Here are the top terpenes for euphoria:
Limonene
Limonene is the most popular terpene thanks to its very prominent scent. When you smell cannabis products with limonene, you immediately think of lemons and oranges. Since the citrus scent is so familiar, many cannabis enthusiasts lean toward limonene-containing strains.
Studies show that limonene has a huge variety of benefits, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Research is yet to confirm that limonene terpenes in cannabis can affect your health, but they can definitely improve the olfactory experience.
Effects: Easing stress, sense of joy, boosting mood
Popular strains with limonene: Super Lemon Haze, Banana OG, Wedding Cake
Pinene
If you are a fan of pine trees and rosemary, you'll love how this terpene makes you feel. People who enjoy clear-headed highs often love strains rich in pinene because it can help balance out THC's foggy side.
Meanwhile, some research shows that pinene can help reduce inflammation by blocking certain signals in cells. It may also act as an antioxidant and protect the brain in conditions like stroke and seizures. However, only a few studies have been done to support this so far.
Effects: Energizing, focus, mood lifting
Popular strains with pinene: Jack Herer, Blue Dream, Harlequin
Myrcene
Myrcene has a musky aroma that reminds many people of ripe mangoes. It's one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis. This particular component is responsible for creating a euphoric vibe.
Myrcene likely works by helping cannabinoids like THC move through the blood-brain barrier more efficiently. It can promote relaxation without making you feel sluggish.
Some strains contain a mix of myrcene and other terpenes. To get the maximum effect, choose myrcene-dominant strains.
Effects: Relaxation with a euphoric edge
Popular strains with myrcene: Granddaddy Purple, OG Kush, Mango Kush
Caryophyllene
A prominent spicy aroma is not the only reason why caryophyllene stands out from the terpene crowd. It has the ability to interact directly with the body's CB2 receptors (which are a part of the endocannabinoid system that helps regulate mood and stress). This interaction may explain its euphoric qualities.
Caryophyllene has multiple beneficial properties, including gastroprotective, analgesic, anticancerogenic, antifungal… the list goes on and on.
Effects: Reduces tension, lifts the mood
Popular strains with caryophyllene: Girl Scout Cookies, Gelato, Sour Diesel
Terpinolene
Terpinolene is a little harder to find, but it's worth the search. Its floral and herbal aroma (think lilacs and nutmeg) adds a dreamy quality to your session. This makes it a perfect option for vapes.
Studies show that terpinolene has the potential to help with insomnia. While more research has to be done, many people confirm the positive effects of this terpene.
Effects: Energetic and calming with a euphoric twist.
Popular strains with terpinolene: Ghost Train Haze, Jack Herer, Orange Cookies
How to Choose the Right Terpenes for Your Needs
Finding the perfect terpene profile is all about knowing your preferences and reading the label. You probably already know which aromas attract or repel you, so it's a great place to start. Terpenes don't work the same for everyone, so your best experience comes from experimentation.
Terpenes on Labels
Licensed cannabis products list their terpene content on the packaging. Look for sections labeled "Terpenes," "Aroma Profile," or "Cannabinoid and Terpene Breakdown."
You'll usually see percentages next to names like limonene, myrcene, or pinene. For example:
- Limonene – 1%
- Myrcene – 0.5%
The percentage is the concentration of each terpene relative to the weight of the product. Usually, for terpenes, it's not more than 4%.
In the above example, the limonene content is higher than myrcene. Accordingly, you can expect the former's effects to be more prominent. But the balance is important too. If two strong terpenes are mixed together in one product, they have the potential to cancel each other's benefits.
If the packaging doesn't include this information, you can often find it by scanning a QR code or checking the dispensary's online menu. Don't hesitate to talk to budtenders. They often have in-depth knowledge about each product.
When it comes to reading lab reports, you need to remember that each batch of cannabis can be different. Concentration can vary based on growing conditions or even storage techniques.
Matching Terpenes to Your Desired Effect
Think about how you want to feel. For example, if you are chasing creativity and energy, look for strains rich in limonene or pinene. For stress relief or gentle euphoria, myrcene and caryophyllene can work.
Don't expect to hit the perfect balance the first time you use the data-powered approach to building your euphoria (even though it happens). It helps to keep notes on what you try so you can identify patterns in what works best for you.
Trust Your Nose
Your sense of smell is a surprisingly good guide. If a product's aroma instantly draws you in, there's a good chance its terpene blend will fit your chemistry.
Ways to Experience Terpenes Beyond Cannabis
Since terpenes offer many benefits, cannabis definitely shouldn't be the only way to take advantage of them. In addition to your marijuana experience, you can use terpenes in other formats:
Aromatherapy with Essential Oils
Many essential oils are loaded with these aromatic compounds. In addition to the scene, they can often offer antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Try diffusing a citrus oil rich in limonene. These scents can lift your mood or sharpen your focus. The effect will not be similar to what you feel when smoking a joint, but it can still be great.
Terpene-Rich Foods
Terpenes aren't just in plants and flowers. They are also in what you eat. Citrus fruits, pine nuts, herbs like rosemary and basil, and mangoes all carry terpenes. If your food is fresh and aromatic, it contains strong terpenes.
Terpene-Infused Products
Want to go a step further? Look for non-cannabis products infused with terpenes. Some examples are:
- Beverages
- Skincare creams
- Bath salts
- Herbal teas
Since terpenes are the aromatic signature in many plants, they are increasingly used in wellness and beauty.
While these products feel great, the dosage and effect will be more subtle than a cannabis strain. Use them as an enhancement, not a replacement.
Safety and Considerations
While terpenes are 100% natural, you need to take a careful approach to leveraging them for your experience. Every person reacts differently. Some people had to stop using marijuana because they were allergic to it when, in reality, they were allergic to specific terpenes.
Your experience with terpenes depends on your body chemistry and tolerance. Here are a few tips to help you avoid unpleasant surprises:
- Start slow. Whether you are using cannabis or terpene-infused products, begin with a small amount. Give your body time to adjust before increasing your dose.
- Know your limits. Terpenes can enhance THC's effects. Too much may lead to dizziness or fatigue (especially with sedative profiles like myrcene). Pay attention to the way you feel and stop as soon as anything feels off.
- Check for interactions. If you take prescription medications, consult your doctor before using terpene-heavy products. Some terpenes can affect metabolism or amplify other active compounds.
- Prioritize quality. Always choose products that are lab-tested. Reliable testing doesn't just ensure purity but also confirms terpene content.
Many people don't pay much attention to the way they store cannabis. However, improper storage has the potential to change the chemical structure of the product. If you had a specific experience with one product and don't feel the same when you use it the next time, improper storage could be at fault. Always keep your cannabis properly sealed and avoid exposing it to high temperatures.
Bringing Euphoria into Your Cannabis Experience
Terpenes play a much larger role in your cannabis experience than you'd expect. While THC and CBD are definitely important players, without terpenes, they can't provide the desired euphoric effect. Digging a little deeper into the terpene profile of your favorite products can provide insight into tweaking your next cannabis session.
The exploration of terpene profiles is always an interesting journey. You may discover that the reason why you don't enjoy the experience is the wrong terpene balance. This knowledge can guide you toward making the right choice in the future.
Don't hesitate to experiment. The right approach to terpenes doesn't just improve your high. It can contribute to your well-being.
References:
- New Study Shows Clinical Evidence of the Entourage Effect as D-Limonene Mitigates Anxiety in Combination with Δ9-THC. (2025, March 26). https://drexel.edu/cannabis-research/research/research-highlights/2024/April/study-shows-clinical-evidence-entourage-effect-thc-limonene/
- LaVigne, J. E., Hecksel, R., Keresztes, A., & Streicher, J. M. (2021). Cannabis sativa terpenes are cannabimimetic and selectively enhance cannabinoid activity. Scientific Reports, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-87740-8
- Sanshita, N., Devi, N., Bhattacharya, B., Sharma, A., Singh, I., Kumar, P., Huanbutta, K., & Sangnim, T. (2025). From Citrus to clinic: Limonene's journey through preclinical research, clinical trials, and formulation innovations. International Journal of Nanomedicine, Volume 20, 4433–4460. https://doi.org/10.2147/ijn.s514247
- Weston-Green, K., Clunas, H., & Naranjo, C. J. (2021). A review of the potential use of pinene and linalool as Terpene-Based Medicines for Brain Health: Discovering novel therapeutics in the flavours and fragrances of cannabis. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2021.583211
- Hanuš, L. O., & Hod, Y. (2020). Terpenes/Terpenoids in Cannabis:Are They Important? Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids, 3(1), 25–60. https://doi.org/10.1159/000509733
- Europe PMC. (n.d.). Europe PMC. https://europepmc.org/article/MED/23339024
- Terpenes, M. (2024, December 14). Terpene sensitivity and allergies: Should you be concerned? Medical Terpenes. https://www.medicalterpenes.com/blog/terpene-sensitivity-and-allergies/
