If you’ve ever cracked open a jar of fresh cannabis and been hit with notes of citrus, pine, or diesel — that’s the work of terpenes. These aromatic compounds are what give each strain its unique scent, flavour, and even influence the type of high you experience.
At Pepe Cannabis Store in Burlington, Ontario, we love helping our community understand what makes each strain special. So, let’s dive into what terpenes are, why they matter, and which ones you’ll find most often in your favourite cannabis products.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are natural compounds found in plants, fruits, and herbs — including cannabis. They’re responsible for aroma and flavour, but they also interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to influence the overall effects of your high.
This interaction is known as the entourage effect — where terpenes, cannabinoids, and flavonoids work together to shape the experience. Whether you prefer something energizing and citrusy or relaxing and earthy, terpenes play a major role.
Why Terpenes Matter
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Aroma and flavour: Terpenes are what make strains smell like lemon, pine, or spice.
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Effects: Some terpenes promote energy and focus, while others promote calm and relaxation.
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Therapeutic benefits: Research suggests terpenes may have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, or mood-elevating effects.
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Quality indicators: Strong, complex aromas often point to well-grown, properly cured cannabis.
The Top 10 Terpenes in Cannabis
Here’s a breakdown of the ten most common terpenes found in cannabis — including what they smell like, how they might affect you, and what to look for at your local dispensary.
1. Myrcene
Aroma: Earthy, musky, with hints of cloves and mango.
Found in: Mango, thyme, lemongrass.
Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis. It’s known for its relaxing, sedative properties and is often associated with “couch-lock” effects in indica-dominant strains.
Common effects: Relaxation, pain relief, calmness, sleep support.
Look for myrcene-heavy strains if you’re after something deeply relaxing or ideal for unwinding at night.
2. Limonene
Aroma: Bright citrus — lemon, orange, lime.
Found in: Citrus fruit peels.
For cannabis enthusiasts seeking bright, citrusy flavours and uplifting effects, limonene-dominant strains offer a unique and invigorating experience. This terpene is found in many sativa-leaning strains and is often associated with elevated mood, focus, and creativity.
Check out our full guide on the best limonene-dominant cannabis strains in Canada for a deeper dive.
Common effects: Mood elevation, energy, stress relief, and mental clarity.
3. Caryophyllene
Aroma: Peppery, spicy, woody.
Found in: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon.
Caryophyllene stands out because it’s the only terpene known to bind directly to CB2 cannabinoid receptors, giving it both aromatic and therapeutic potential.
Common effects: Anti-inflammatory, stress relief, and grounding sensations.
4. Pinene
Aroma: Fresh pine needles and herbs.
Found in: Pine trees, rosemary, basil.
Pinene is known for its crisp, forest-like aroma and may help with alertness and memory retention. It’s commonly found in uplifting, daytime strains.
Common effects: Focus, creativity, mental clarity, potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
5. Linalool
Aroma: Floral, lavender-like.
Found in: Lavender, coriander.
Linalool gives cannabis a soothing floral aroma and is known for its calming, stress-reducing qualities. It’s often associated with relaxing or sleep-inducing strains.
Common effects: Relaxation, anxiety relief, and improved sleep.
6. Terpinolene
Aroma: Herbal, floral, slightly sweet.
Found in: Nutmeg, lilac, cumin.
Terpinolene is a more uncommon terpene with complex aromas. It’s often found in sativa-dominant strains and contributes to uplifting, creative, and slightly energetic effects.
Common effects: Energy, creativity, and mental stimulation.
7. Humulene
Aroma: Earthy, hoppy, with subtle spice.
Found in: Hops, basil, coriander.
Humulene is known for its anti-inflammatory potential and may contribute to appetite suppression — a nice contrast to the munchies associated with THC.
Common effects: Focus, appetite control, and calm energy.
8. Ocimene
Aroma: Sweet, herbal, woody.
Found in: Mint, orchids, parsley.
Ocimene has a refreshing sweetness and is thought to offer uplifting, energizing effects, making it a great choice for daytime use.
Common effects: Energy, alertness, and clear-headed focus.
9. Bisabolol
Aroma: Floral, sweet, chamomile-like.
Found in: Chamomile, candeia tree.
Bisabolol is a soothing terpene known for its delicate aroma and potential skin and anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s often present in softer, more balanced hybrids.
Common effects: Calmness, skin health, and gentle relaxation.
10. Eucalyptol (Cineole)
Aroma: Minty, cooling, sharp.
Found in: Eucalyptus, bay leaves, rosemary.
Eucalyptol provides a fresh, menthol-like note and is known for its energizing and clarifying qualities. It’s often used in daytime or focus-enhancing strains.
Common effects: Energy, mental clarity, and a cooling sensation.
How to Identify Terpenes in Cannabis
When shopping at a cannabis store like Pepe in Burlington, you can find terpene information listed on many product labels or online menus. Here’s how to spot them:
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Look for aroma clues: Citrus = limonene, pine = pinene, spice = caryophyllene, floral = linalool.
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Check the product’s COA (Certificate of Analysis): Many producers include terpene breakdowns.
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Ask your budtender: At Pepe, our team can help you find strains rich in your favourite terpenes.
Why Terpenes Matter More Than Just THC
Many people assume THC percentage determines strength, but terpenes can significantly shape how a product feels. A 20% THC strain high in terpenes like limonene or myrcene may feel stronger and more enjoyable than a 30% strain with low terpene content.
Terpenes add complexity, personality, and depth — turning good cannabis into great cannabis.
Discover Terpenes at Pepe Cannabis Store
At Pepe Cannabis Store, we carry a curated selection of terpene-rich flower, vapes, and concentrates from Ontario’s best producers. Whether you’re searching for citrusy limonene, earthy myrcene, or peppery caryophyllene, we’ll help you find the right profile for your vibe.
Visit us at 892 Brant Street, Burlington, Ontario, right near the Burlington GO Station, or explore our online menu to learn more about your favourite strains.
