Terpenes are oils produced by plants naturally, not just cannabis. These oils are very volatile and can begin evaporating at room temperature. They are what give plants their distinct smell and flavor. The term terpene is derived from the Greek word “turpentine” which means “resin from a tree”. Terpenes are also found in other plants like citrus fruits, pine trees, and lavender flowers. There are over 200 terpenes found in nature, but only a handful of them play an important role in the plant world. Terpenes have many different uses for humans as well as other animals or insects that may interact with them; they can be used to deter pests or attract pollinators to the plant they come from.

Learn more about the aroma, flavor, and benefits/effects of the most common terpenes found in cannabis below!