Terpenes 101: What They Are, How They Affect Your High & What to Look For

When most people think of cannabis, they usually think about THC or CBD. But there’s another major player in how cannabis smells, tastes, and feels—and that’s terpenes. These aromatic compounds are found in all kinds of plants (think lavender, citrus fruits, and pine trees), but in cannabis, they do more than just smell good—they help shape your entire experience.

So whether you’re chasing a chill night in or looking for a boost of daytime energy, understanding terpenes can help you choose the right strain. Let’s break it all down and help you shop smarter.

What Exactly Are Terpenes?

In simple terms, terpenes are the natural compounds that give cannabis its unique aromas and flavors. From fruity and sweet to earthy and spicy, that scent you love when you crack open a jar? That’s the terpenes doing their thing.

But here’s the cool part—terpenes also interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to influence how you feel. This is called the entourage effect, and it means that the combination of compounds in cannabis works better together than alone. So the next time you’re choosing a strain, knowing the dominant terpenes can tell you a lot more than just how it smells.

How Terpenes Shape Your High

Different terpenes = different effects. Some help you relax, some give you energy, and others might help you focus. Here are a few popular terpenes and how they might influence your experience:

• Limonene – Bright, citrusy, and often found in uplifting strains like Super Lemon Haze. Great for boosting your mood and energy—perfect for daytime use. 
• Myrcene – Musky, earthy, and very common. Known for its deeply relaxing effects, myrcene is your go-to for winding down or catching some Zs. 
• Linalool – Floral and lavender-like. It’s soothing, calming, and great for managing stress and anxiety. 
• Pinene – Smells like pine trees (no surprise there) and is known for enhancing focus and alertness. Bonus: it may help counteract some of THC’s foggier effects. 
• Caryophyllene – Spicy and peppery, this one is unique because it interacts directly with your body’s CB2 receptors. It may help with pain and inflammation. 

Looking to Unwind? These Terpenes Are Your Friends

If your goal is to relax, chill out, or get better sleep, you’ll want to keep an eye out for strains rich in these:

• Linalool – Think calming and anxiety-reducing. It’s basically the lavender of the cannabis world. 
• Myrcene – Known for its sedative properties, this terpene is great for a lazy evening or deep relaxation. 

Strains that feature both of these are ideal for kicking back after a long day.

Need Energy or Focus? Try These Terpenes Instead

For those times when you need to stay sharp or get things done, look for strains high in:

• Limonene – Its citrusy, mood-boosting effects make it a great pick-me-up. 
• Pinene – Helps with alertness and mental clarity, so you can stay productive without feeling spaced out. 

Whether you’re working, creating, or just want to avoid the couch-lock, these terpenes are a great fit for daytime use.

How to Shop for Terpene-Rich Cannabis

These days, many dispensaries include terpene profiles on their product labels or online menus—which is super helpful when you’re trying to dial in your experience. If you’re in Las Vegas, The Grove is a great place to start. They carry a wide range of terpene-rich strains and have a knowledgeable staff that can help guide you based on how you want to feel.

Not sure what to look for? Just ask! The Grove’s budtenders are pros at matching the right product to your vibe—whether that’s chill, focused, uplifted, or somewhere in between.

Final Thoughts: Get More from Your Cannabis Experience

Terpenes might seem like a small detail, but they play a big role in how cannabis affects you. From flavor and aroma to relaxation and focus, they add an extra layer of customization to your high.

Next time you’re picking up flower, gummies, or concentrates, take a minute to check the terpene profile. You’ll be able to make more informed choices—and likely have a better, more personalized experience because of it.

Ready to explore terpene-rich cannabis for yourself? Head to The Grove and let their team help you find the perfect product for your goals.