Terpene Chart to the Most Common Terpenes Found in Cannabis
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis (and many other plants) that contribute to its unique flavors, scents, and effects. Understanding terpenes can help you choose strains tailored to your preferences and needs. Here’s a terpene chart to some of the most common terpenes in cannabis:

1. Myrcene
- Flavor: Earthy, musky, with hints of clove or herbal sweetness.
- Effects & Benefits: Known for its relaxing and sedative properties, myrcene may help with stress, insomnia, and pain relief. It is often associated with the “couch-lock” effect in indica strains.
- Common Strains: Blue Dream, OG Kush, Granddaddy Purple.
2. Limonene
- Flavor: Citrus-like, with bright, zesty notes of lemon, orange, and lime.
- Effects & Benefits: Limonene is uplifting and mood-enhancing, potentially reducing stress and anxiety. It may also have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Common Strains: Super Lemon Haze, Durban Poison, Do-Si-Dos.
3. Caryophyllene
- Flavor: Spicy, peppery, with a touch of woody or clove-like warmth.
- Effects & Benefits: Known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, caryophyllene is unique because it interacts directly with the endocannabinoid system. It may also reduce anxiety and improve mood.
- Common Strains: Girl Scout Cookies, Sour Diesel, Bubba Kush.
4. Linalool
- Flavor: Floral, with a touch of lavender and a hint of spiciness.
- Effects & Benefits: Linalool is calming and relaxing, making it helpful for anxiety, depression, and insomnia. It may also have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Common Strains: Amnesia Haze, Lavender, LA Confidential.
5. Pinene
- Flavor: Pine-like, fresh, and woody.
- Effects & Benefits: Pinene is known for its uplifting effects and may enhance focus and alertness. It can also act as a bronchodilator, potentially helping with respiratory issues.
- Common Strains: Jack Herer, Blue Dream, Dutch Treat.
6. Humulene
- Flavor: Earthy, woody, with a subtle spicy or hoppy aroma.
- Effects & Benefits: Humulene may act as an appetite suppressant and has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and pain-relieving properties.
- Common Strains: White Widow, Headband, Girl Scout Cookies.
7. Terpinolene
- Flavor: Sweet, floral, with hints of citrus and herbal undertones.
- Effects & Benefits: Terpinolene is often energizing and uplifting. It may have antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
- Common Strains: Jack Herer, Ghost Train Haze, Cantaloupe Haze.
8. Ocimene
- Flavor: Sweet, citrusy, with a fresh, herbal, and sometimes minty aroma.
- Effects & Benefits: Ocimene is believed to be uplifting and energizing. It may have antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Common Strains: Green Crack, Amnesia, Golden Goat.
9. Bisabolol
- Flavor: Floral, sweet, with hints of chamomile.
- Effects & Benefits: Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, bisabolol may also have antimicrobial and skin-healing benefits.
- Common Strains: Harle-Tsu, Pink Kush, ACDC.
10. Eucalyptol
- Flavor: Minty, cooling, with a sharp, fresh aroma.
- Effects & Benefits: Eucalyptol is refreshing and may promote focus and mental clarity. It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.
- Common Strains: Super Silver Haze, Headband, Bubba Kush.
Understanding the flavors and effects of these terpenes can help you make informed choices when selecting cannabis strains. Always remember that the interaction between cannabinoids and terpenes, known as the entourage effect, plays a significant role in the overall experience.
Quick Guide to Shopping for Cannabis Strains Using the Terpene Chart
When choosing a cannabis strain, considering its terpene profile is just as important as its THC or CBD content. Terpenes are aromatic compounds that influence a strain’s flavor, scent, and effects. Here’s how to shop for cannabis based on terpenes using our terpene chart:
1. Understand the Role of Terpenes
Terpenes don’t just provide aroma and flavor; they also contribute to the effects of cannabis. Some terpenes promote relaxation, while others enhance focus or uplift mood.
2. Look at the Cannabis Terpene Chart to See Effects
3. Match Terpenes to Your Desired Effects
- For relaxation & sleep → Look for myrcene & linalool (Indica-dominant strains)
- For mood boost & energy → Choose limonene & pinene (Sativa-dominant strains)
- For pain & inflammation → Go for caryophyllene & humulene
- For focus & creativity → Pick strains high in pinene & limonene
4. Read Lab Reports & Product Labels
Many dispensaries provide COAs (Certificates of Analysis) listing terpene percentages. Look for strains with dominant terpenes that align with your needs.
5. Experiment and Take Notes
Terpene effects can vary by person. Try different strains, take note of how they make you feel, and adjust your choices accordingly.
Final Tips
- Smell the flower—your nose often picks up what works for you.
- Talk to budtenders—they can recommend strains based on terpene content.
- Choose full-spectrum or live resin products for a richer terpene experience.
By shopping for cannabis based on terpenes referencing our terpene chart, you can fine-tune your experience for relaxation, energy, pain relief, or creativity. Happy exploring!