What Are Terpenes & Why Do They Matter?

If you’ve ever opened a jar of THCa flower and been hit with the smell of citrus, pine, gas, or sweet berries — that’s terpenes doing their thing. But what are terpenes, really? And why do they matter in your cannabis experience?

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in plants — not just cannabis. They’re what give oranges their citrus smell, pine trees their sharp aroma, and lavender its soothing floral scent. In cannabis, terpenes shape both the flavor profile and the effects of each strain.

So, what are terpenes? In short, they are the reason one strain makes you giggly and creative, while another puts you straight to sleep.

What Terpenes Matter in THCa Flower?

When you’re shopping for THCa flower, potency (THCa %) only tells part of the story. A strain with 28% THCa and no rich terpene content can feel flat compared to a 22% flower bursting with limonene or myrcene.

Here’s what terpenes influence:

• Flavor and aroma
• Type of high (heady vs body-heavy)
• Mood and mental state
• Sedation vs stimulation

This interaction is called the entourage effect — when cannabinoids and terpenes work together to enhance your overall experience.

What are Common Cannabis Terpenes & Effects

Myrcene (Earthy, Musky)

Myrcene is the most prevalent terpene found in cannabis, known primarily for its earthy, musky scent reminiscent of cloves. It is celebrated for its deeply calming and sedative effects, often described as “couch-lock.” This makes Myrcene-rich strains ideal for evening use, insomnia relief, and managing stress or chronic pain. Additionally, Myrcene enhances THC’s psychoactive effects by increasing its ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, amplifying relaxation and sedation.

Typical Effects: Sedative, muscle relaxation, stress and anxiety reduction, pain relief.

Limonene (Citrus, Bright)

Limonene is instantly recognizable due to its vibrant, citrus aroma reminiscent of lemon, orange, and grapefruit. This terpene is known for uplifting the mood, increasing energy levels, and promoting feelings of euphoria and creativity. Strains high in Limonene are often chosen for daytime use, creative activities, and social interactions. Beyond its mood-enhancing properties, Limonene has shown potential benefits for anxiety relief, stress reduction, and digestive comfort.

Typical Effects: Mood elevation, anxiety relief, enhanced creativity, increased focus and alertness.

Caryophyllene (Peppery, Spicy)

Caryophyllene is uniquely recognized for its spicy, peppery aroma and its ability to directly bind to CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the body. This unique property gives it significant therapeutic potential, especially regarding inflammation, chronic pain, and anxiety. Because of these attributes, Caryophyllene-rich strains are highly valued in medicinal cannabis circles and among those seeking pain relief or help with anxiety without heavy sedation.

Typical Effects: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), anxiety and stress reduction, gastrointestinal relief.

Linalool (Floral, Lavender)

Linalool carries a calming, distinctly floral scent similar to lavender, making it particularly appealing for those looking to reduce anxiety or achieve deep relaxation. Although less common than some other terpenes, strains high in Linalool are popular for their anti-anxiety, sedative, and mood-stabilizing properties. It’s frequently chosen by consumers dealing with insomnia, anxiety, or stress, offering a gentle, soothing experience without overly heavy psychoactive effects.

Typical Effects: Anxiety relief, sedation, mood enhancement, sleep support.

Pinene (Pine, Herbal)

Pinene, characterized by a fresh, piney aroma, is known for its ability to promote alertness, enhance cognitive clarity, and boost memory retention. Strains high in Pinene are ideal for daytime consumption, providing functional effects that can aid productivity, creativity, and sustained focus. Additionally, Pinene has been noted for its potential to mitigate some of THC’s unwanted effects, such as paranoia and anxiety, creating a more balanced and comfortable cannabis experience.

Typical Effects: Increased alertness, improved cognitive function, reduced anxiety and paranoia, respiratory benefits.

What are Terpenes to Choosing a Strain

If you’ve ever bought a strain based on the name alone and been disappointed, terpenes are the reason. Similar strain names can vary widely in terpene content — and that’s what shapes the high.

Instead of shopping by name or THCa %, try choosing based on what effect you want:

How to Smell and Taste Terpenes

Open the jar. Terpenes are volatile compounds, which means they release aroma easily. When you smell your flower, you’re getting a direct hit of its dominant terpenes. Vaping at low temps (around 300–350°F) is one of the best ways to preserve and taste these flavors.

Do Terpenes Affect Legality or Potency?

Nope. Terpenes aren’t cannabinoids and don’t affect a flower’s legal status under the 2018 Farm Bill. But they do affect how you experience the THCa that is in the product — sometimes dramatically.

That’s why at High Hippy, we curate strains not just by THCa %, but by how the terpenes complement the overall vibe. Whether you want body-melting calm or sunshine-in-a-bag energy, the terpene profile matters.

What are Terpenes & Why Do They Matter?

If you want to take your cannabis experience to the next level, start paying attention to terpenes. They’re more than flavor — they’re the drivers of your high, and they often make the difference between “meh” and “mind-blown.”

Ready to feel the difference? Start with a flavorful favorite like Gelato, or explore our full THCa flower collection.