The major terpenes found most commonly in commercially available strains of cannabis in legal countries, states, and provinces are detailed below:
β Caryophyllene: The only terpene to interact with the human endocannabinoid system (ECS) (via the CB2 receptors located mostly in the organs and tissues of the immune system). Delivers analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Geraniol: Effective for neuropathy. Potentially effective for patients with conditions such as diabetes, sciatic nerve pain, and diabetic neuropathy. Interestingly, geraniol is also one of the only terpenes that can serve as an effective mosquito repellent!
Limonene: Dominant in strains of cannabis featuring a pronounced sativa effect. Increases bioavailability of terpenes absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes. Effective for combating anxiety and depression.
Linalool: Delivers sedative properties and relieves anxiety and stress. It also serves as an analgesic and anti-epileptic.
Myrcene: The most prevalent terpene in cannabis. Found in some quantity in almost all strains/cultivars. Mangoes are an excellent source of myrcene, which has been shown to amplify the effects of THC.
Ocimene: Provides antifungal properties. Like pinene, the ocimene terpene manifests in both alpha and beta varieties. This terpene occurs naturally in mint, parsley, pepper, basil, mangoes (also a great source of myrcene), and kumquats. Ocimene provides multiple medicinal benefits, including acting as an antiviral, antiseptic, decongestant, antibacterial, and antifungal.
Pinene: Also called α pinene, this terpene acts as both a bronchodilator and an anti-inflammatory and, like ocimene, features a β-pinene variant. Like THC, both versions of pinene possess the special ability to cross the extremely selective blood-brain barrier. While myrcene is the most common terpene in cannabis, pinene is the most common in the plant kingdom.
Terpineol: Provides relaxing and calming effects that are good for those who suffer anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions.
Terpinolene: Delivers anti-cancer and antioxidant efficacy in rats. Studies involving mice demonstrate that this terpene has a sedative effect when inhaled. Responsible for the floral aroma of the strain Jack Herer.
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