Smell That? Top 5 Terpenes & What They Actually Do
Ever smelled a strain and said, “That’s the one”—without even knowing what it was?
That’s your body picking up on terpenes, and it’s not just preference—it’s chemistry.
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds in cannabis (and other plants) that give each strain its scent, flavor, and vibe. And here’s the kicker: they don’t just smell good—they do something.
Let’s get into the top 5 terpenes you need to know when picking your next eighth.
🍋 1. Limonene – Uplifting, Bright, Anti-Anxiety
Smells like: Citrus, lemons, oranges
What it does: Boosts mood, fights stress and anxiety, and can help with depression
Found in: Lemon Haze, Durban Poison, Wedding Cake
Frankie’s Tip: Look for limonene if you want a mental refresh or something to lift your spirits without feeling too heavy.
🌿 2. Myrcene – Relaxing, Sedative, Anti-Inflammatory
Smells like: Earthy, musky, cloves
What it does: Promotes sleep, relaxes muscles, and eases pain
Found in: Granddaddy Purple, OG Kush, Blue Dream
Frankie’s Tip: This is the “couch-lock” terp. If you’re winding down, recovering, or battling insomnia—myrcene is your friend.
🌲 3. Pinene – Alertness, Focus, Bronchodilator
Smells like: Pine needles, rosemary
What it does: Improves focus, memory, and opens up airways (great for asthma)
Found in: Jack Herer, Dutch Treat, Romulan
Frankie’s Tip: If you need to get things done without fogginess, pinene-rich strains can keep your mind clear and alert.
🌸 4. Linalool – Calming, Anti-Anxiety, Pain Relief
Smells like: Lavender, floral, sweet
What it does: Reduces anxiety, helps with depression, and works as a natural muscle relaxer
Found in: LA Confidential, Do-Si-Dos, Zkittlez
Frankie’s Tip: If you’re dealing with stress, trauma, or need emotional grounding—linalool-rich strains are like a lavender hug for your nervous system.
🔥 5. Caryophyllene – Pain Relief, Gut Support, Anti-Inflammatory
Smells like: Black pepper, cloves, spice
What it does: Binds to CB2 receptors (rare for terpenes!), great for inflammation and gut issues
Found in: GSC (Girl Scout Cookies), Bubba Kush, Chemdawg
Frankie’s Tip: This is one of the few terpenes that acts like a cannabinoid—so it’s powerful. Especially good if you’re dealing with chronic pain or digestive issues.
💨 Why Terpenes Matter More Than “Sativa” or “Indica”
Truth is: the terpene profile tells you more about how a strain will make you feel than the name ever will.
Want to sleep? Look for myrcene and linalool
Want to vibe at a day party? Try limonene and pinene
Need to chill that nerve pain or inflammation? Go for caryophyllene
Frankie’s Motto: Stop shopping by name. Start shopping by effect. Terpenes are the guide.
🧪 Bonus: The Entourage Effect
When cannabinoids like THC or CBD combine with terpenes, the plant becomes more powerful. That’s called the entourage effect, and it’s what makes full-spectrum cannabis so effective.
You’re not just getting high—you’re getting healed. When done right.
📍Up Next:
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Published & Written by Lyriq Manson | IG: @shespeaksezy