The West Coast Cannabis Terpene Guide: What Makes Your Cannabis Taste and Feel Different

Two cannabis products can show identical THC percentages and produce completely different experiences. The reason is terpenes — aromatic compounds that determine flavour, aroma and significantly influence effects.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are volatile aromatic compounds produced by the cannabis plant. They are responsible for the distinctive smells distinguishing one strain from another — the pine notes in OG Kush, the sweet berry of Blue Dream, the citrus of Sour Diesel. Terpenes interact with cannabinoids through the “entourage effect.”

The Six Most Important Cannabis Terpenes

Myrcene

Earthy, musky. Most abundant terpene in most strains. Associated with sedating, relaxing effects. Present in OG Kush and Granddaddy Purple.

Limonene

Citrusy, energising. Associated with elevated mood and focus. Common in sativa strains including Sour Diesel.

Caryophyllene

Spicy, peppery. Only terpene acting directly as a CB2 receptor agonist. Anti-inflammatory properties. Found in OG Kush and GSC.

Pinene

Fresh pine. Associated with alertness and memory retention. Common in Jack Herer and Blue Dream.

Linalool

Floral, lavender-like. Calming, anti-anxiety effects. Common in indica-dominant strains.

Humulene

Earthy, hoppy. Associated with appetite suppression and potential anti-inflammatory properties.

Reading Terpene Data

Every West Coast Treez vape cartridge and Smalls flower product COA includes a detailed terpene analysis. Use this data to select strains based on desired effects rather than strain names alone.