What Are Terpenes And Why Do They Matter To Every Smoker?

WHAT ARE THE BASICS OF TERPENES?

Terpenes are organic compounds made of hydrocarbons that occur naturally in plants. They’re what give herbs, fruits and trees their distinct smell and taste.

You’ll find terpenes in citrus fruits, pine trees, lemongrass and many other plants. When you open a jar of herbs or take your first draw, that burst of scent is the terpenes doing their work.

Plants use these chemical compounds to attract pollinators and defend themselves from pests. For smokers, they bring character, depth and personality to every blend.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TERPENES AND TERPENOIDS?

Terpenoids are closely related to terpenes, but with one small change. They’re terpenes that have been altered through oxidation, something that happens during drying, curing or exposure to heat or solvent.

That tiny change can slightly adjust the flavour or aroma. While the science gets technical, for most smokers, terpenes and terpenoids play the same role, which is shaping how your herbs smell, taste, and burn.

WHY DO TERPENES MATTER?

Terpenes influence the flavour, aroma and therapeutic properties of each strain. Strains with high concentrations of specific terpenes can create very different sessions, from bright and citrusy notes that lift your mood to deep, earthy tones that feel grounding.

They also work with cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) through something called the entourage effect. This happens when all the natural plant compounds combine to shape how your body responds.

Understanding your terpene profile helps you pick blends that match your preferred taste and how you want to feel.

HOW DO TERPENES WORK?

Plants produce terpenes for protection and reproduction. They keep pests away while attracting pollinators. Because terpenes are volatile, they evaporate easily when exposed to air or heat. That’s why fresh herbs often smell stronger than dried ones.

When you use full-spectrum products, you’re getting the complete range of terpenes and cannabinoids together. This balance contributes to the aroma, flavour and therapeutic effects you experience during a session.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON TERPENES?

Each strain or herb has its own mix of different terpenes, known as a terpene profile. These profiles influence everything from scent and taste to how your session feels. Here are some common terpenes you’ll often come across:

DO TERPENES OFFER THERAPEUTIC BENEFITS?

Research published on databases like PubMed suggests that terpenes may hold several therapeutic properties. Scientists are studying their potential therapeutic effects, and while more research is needed, these benefits of terpenes are among the most discussed:

• Anti-inflammatory effects – Some terpenes show potential to ease inflammation.
• Antimicrobial, anti-bacterial and antifungal – Certain terpenes display natural resistance to microbes.
• Anticancer and antioxidant – A few are being studied for their possible protective actions against cell damage.
• Anti-anxiety and antidepressant – Some are linked with mood-balancing and relaxing properties.
• Neuroprotective and analgesic – Studies suggest possible support for brain health and comfort management.

These therapeutic benefits highlight why terpenes are such an interesting part of the smoking experience.

ARE TERPENES DIFFERENT FROM ESSENTIAL OILS?

Yes. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that contain many terpenes, fatty acids and other natural chemical compounds.

Terpenes are the specific molecules within those oils that create their scent and flavour. So, when you use essential oils in aromatherapy, you’re actually working with a mix of different terpenes and related compounds.

Isolated terpenes offer more targeted use, while essential oils provide a full-spectrum blend that captures everything the plant naturally produces.

HOW DO TERPENES AFFECT YOUR EXPERIENCE?

Aroma isn’t just about smell. It shapes how your body reacts. Terpenes interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, influencing the overall effects of THC and the way cannabidiol behaves in your system.

Here’s how they might change your session:

• Flavour and aroma. Each terpene profile adds its own notes of citrus, pine, spice or floral tones.
• Mood and body feel. Through the entourage effect, terpenes and cannabinoids may work together to fine-tune your overall response.
• Body interaction. Some terpenes could influence your endocannabinoid system, changing how tetrahydrocannabinol or cannabidiol acts in your body.

Your blend’s smell can subtly change your perception, taste and comfort, making every session personal.

ARE TERPENES LEGAL IN AUSTRALIA?

Terpenes derived from plants are legal in Australia and used in industries from food flavouring to perfumes and aromatherapy. They appear in countless everyday products without restriction.

For herbal blends that include terpenes, rules can vary. Some options are available through pharmacies with help from a healthcare professional, while others can be purchased directly depending on their ingredients and use.