Terpenes are all around you. They’re organic compounds that are produced by plants, as well as some insects.

Terpenes are responsible for the powerful aromas of countless plants, from trees and flowers to herbs and spices. Those odors serve many purposes, including attracting mates and repelling predators.

Terpenes are extremely prevalent in cannabis plants. Not only do they create the unique scents associated with different strains, but they also play a major role in their effects. For example, a strain high in myrcene will typically be more relaxing, while a strain with limonene is usually more energetic.

If you’re into vaping, terpenes should absolutely be on your radar. Even if you don’t enjoy the psychoactive effects associated with THC, terpenes can elevate your vape sessions in a number of ways.

Read on to discover why terpenes have become so popular.

Create Custom Flavors

Tired of vaping the same old flavors? Terpene e-liquids are an exciting alternative to traditional vape juices.

While some terpene e-liquids are available in classic flavors, many vape enthusiasts love the more natural taste of terpenes. Terpenes have a similar profile to essential oils, however, they’re far more palatable to vapers.

Many terpene juices are based on classic cannabis strains like Sour Diesel, Jack Herer, or White Widow. Adding them to your concentrates, mixing them together, or vaping them alone is a great way to customize your vape sessions.

Not only can you enjoy the unique flavors of each strain, but you can enjoy their effects too. Looking for a pick-me-up? Add a few drops of a sativa strain. Winding down for the evening? An indica strain should soothe the body and mind.

If you consider yourself to be a vape connoisseur, you’re going to love terpenes. With so many terpene profiles out there, you’ll find something to accommodate virtually any mood.

From musky and earthy to sweet and succulent, there are so many unique flavors to try. You can enjoy them on their own, make custom blends, or add them to your traditional vape juices.

Experience the Entourage Effect

Terpene e-liquids are great on their own, but they’re superb when mixed with your concentrates. The reason why terpenes work so amazingly with both THC and CBD is because of a phenomenon called the entourage effect.

The entourage effect occurs when different organic compounds interact with your endocannabinoid system together. Because different terpenes deliver different effects, you’re able to customize your buzz by simply adding certain terpenes.

For instance, if you’re getting ready to get some work done, you could add extra limonene to your vape pen, as limonene is known for its energy and focus. Or, maybe you’re experiencing chronic pain. Caryophyllene is often used for pain relief.

Besides just giving you more control over your experience, the entourage effect simply makes your non-nicotine vape liquids more potent. The organic compounds interact synergistically, so the whole becomes greater than the sum of its parts.

If you’ve ever smoked two different types of cannabis together, you probably noticed that the effects were much more powerful than if you smoked either one on its own. That’s the entourage effect in action.

Terpenes essentially allow you to deconstruct cannabis and then put it back together according to your exact preferences. Welcome to the future.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common terpenes.

Limonene (Citrus)

Limonene is the second most common terpene in cannabis plants. It’s often used to add a pleasant lemon scent to cleaning products and cosmetics.

Scent: Citrus
Effects: Energy, focus, mood boost, anxiety and stress relief
Found in: Lemons, oranges, juniper, rosemary, mint
Common strains: Do-Si-Dos, Super Lemon Haze, Wedding Cake

Myrcene (Herbal)

Myrcene is the most prominent terpene in cannabis plants as a whole, although the amount varies by strain.

Scent: Musky and earthy with a slight hint of fruity sweetness.
Effects: Sedation, pain relief
Found in: Lemongrass, hops, mangoes, thyme, bay leaves, basil
Common strains: OG Kush, Grandaddy Purple, Cherry Pie

Caryophyllene (Peppery)

Also known as beta-caryophyllene, this is the spiciest of all the terpenes.

Scent: Pepper, cloves, wood, spice
Effects: Pain relief, anti-inflammation, anxiety and depression relief
Found in: Black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, oregano, rosemary
Common strains: Sour Diesel, Bubba Kush, Chemdog

Pinene (Pine)

As the name implies, pinene delivers a lovely pine scent that’s frequently used in cleaning products, perfumes, and other household products.

Scent: Pine, cedarwood, earthy, woody
Effects: Pain relief, anxiety relief, anti-inflammation
Found in: Pine needles, basil, rosemary, dill, basil, parsley
Common strains: Blue Dream, OG Kush, LA Confidential

Linalool (Floral)

Although linalool is most commonly associated with lavender flowers, the compound is found in hundreds of plants.

Scent: Floral with hints of spice
Effects: Relaxation, calmness, pain relief, stress and anxiety relief, anti-inflammation
Found in: Lavender, coriander, cinnamon, marjoram, basil, oregano
Common strains: Amnesia Haze, LA Confidential, Lavender Kush

Experiment with Different Combinations

Everyone’s body chemistry is unique, so there’s no best approach to terpenes. Use this guide to determine which terpenes sound the most appealing to you, and give them a shot. Creating custom blends is a blast, and you may even find your new all-day vape.