What are Terpenes? Definition, Examples, and Uses

What Are Terpenes? 

The simplest explanation is that terpenes are aromatic compounds that contribute to the flavor and aroma of most plants. 

More specifically, terpenes are natural hydrocarbons present in the essential oils of plants. There are several different types of terpenes depending on the number of units required to form a molecule. Monoterpenes have ten carbon atoms and two isoprene units, Sesquiterpenes have three isoprene units and are divided into linear, cyclic, bicyclic, and tricyclic categories. 

THEN there are… sorry, did we lose you? Basically, the natural world is PACKED with terpenes and you can find them all over the place. We’re talking about the rinds of citrus fruits, black pepper, pine needles, tree sap, flowers, etc. 

Some plants, like cannabis and hops, produce a LOT of terpenes which makes them aromatically very complex. In cannabis flower, for example, sticky resin glands secrete terpenes that help create the unique aromas found in different strains.

Recently, we’ve discovered that aromatic compounds called flavorants play a more significant role in driving unique cannabis aromas. However, terpenes are still VERY important and impact the subtle nuances of everyday flavors and aromas.

What Do Terpenes Do? How Do Terpenes Work?

Plants produce terpenes for a shockingly large number of purposes. Some terpenes help attract pollinators, repel predators, provide protection from UV rays, destroy pathogens, and MORE. Terpenes can even influence cloud seeding!

If all of this sounds unbelievable, keep in mind that you’ve likely already experienced terpenes. No, we’re not just talking about Forest Bathing or enjoying the scent of a terpene-fueled aroma. Many of the products you use every day have been infused with terpenes!

From personal care products to cleaning agents, CPGs often incorporate terpenes for their aromas or their unique properties. One of the most fascinating functions of terpenes, particularly in regard to their CPG applications, is their ability to influence US. 

Not convinced? If you’ve ever found relaxation from using a floral pillow spray or felt invigorated from a citrus-scented face wash, you’ve already experienced this.

Plus, let’s not forget the important role terpenes play in the canna industry! No, terpenes don’t get you high. However, terpenes CAN promote specific effects. Psychoactive cannabinoids like THC are what get you high, while aromatic compounds like terpenes dictate sensorial effects like creativity, relaxation, etc.

5 Common Terpene Isolates and Where You Can Find Them

There are a LOT of terpene isolates. We’re talking about hundreds and hundreds of them! Our scientists study them endlessly. Sometimes, our specialized equipment finds previously undetected terpenes in our samples; sometimes, we discover entirely new terpenes!

Want a long list of terpene isolates so you can become an expert? Check out our Ultimate List of Terpenes!

Looking for something easier to digest? We’ve got you covered. Read on for five of the most common terpene isolates and discover terpene profiles so you can experience them for yourself!

Alpha-Pinene

Do you feel sharper and refreshed after a walk in the woods? Part of that feeling probably comes from all the α-Pinene found in conifer trees! It’s also found in rosemary, eucalyptus, and orange peel. Not surprisingly, its scent is herbal and woody with a slight cooling camphoraceous effect.

• Other Names: (+)-Alpha-Pinene; (-)-Alpha Pinene; Racemic Alpha-Pinene; (1S,5S)-2,6,6-Trimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]hept-2-ene; ((−)-α-Pinene)
• Sources: Pine, conifers, rosemary, and more.
• Taste & Smell (Organoleptics): Herbal, woody, piney and turpentine-like, with a slight cooling camphoraceous nuance and a fresh herbal lift.

Beta-Caryophyllene

This spicy isolate can be found in black caraway, cloves, hops, lavender, basil, oregano, black pepper, and even rosemary. While those plants all have distinct flavors and aromas, on its own, β-Caryophyllene is spicy, woody, and subtly sweet. ß-caryophyllene is particularly powerful because it acts as a dietary cannabinoid and readily binds to CB2 receptors.

• Other Names: BCP,(1R,4E,9S)-4, 11-Trimethyl-8-methylidenebicyclo[7.2.0]undec-4-ene.
• Sources: Black Caraway, cloves, hops, basil, oregano, black pepper, lavender, rosemary, and more.
• Taste & Smell (Organoleptics): Spicy, sweet, and woody.

Want MORE profiles with beta-Caryophyllene? Check out 10 Beta-Caryophyllene Dominant Strains!

D-Limonene

D-limonene. Limon. Lemon. Easy, right? One of the most widely known terpenes, d-Limonene is prominently found in the rinds of citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, limes, and grapefruits. It should be fairly obvious that it has a loud citrus flavor and smell that’s also a bit sweet. It’s one of the most well-studied isolates and, as such, is used in a variety of industries for its aroma, flavor, and functional properties.

• Other Names: Limonene; 4-Isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohexene; 1-Methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-cyclohexenep-Menth-1,8-diene
• Sources: Citrus fruit, citrus rinds, and more.
• Taste & Smell (Organoleptics): Sweet, Citrus, Orange, Terpy

Want MORE profiles with d-Limonene? Check out 10 Limonene Dominant Strains!

Linalool

Linalool is found in plants like lavender, basil, hops, certain varieties of bay leaf, and more. Its aroma is distinctly floral and sweet, with hints of citrus and rose. If you’ve ever wondered why the scent of lavender is so calming, linalool plays a big role!

• Other Names: Beta-linalool; linalyl alcohol; linaloyl oxide; p-linalool; allo-ocimenol; and 3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadien-3-ol.
• Sources: Lavender, Basil, Hops, common wormwood, indian bay leaf, and more.
• Taste & Smell (Organoleptics): Floral, citrus, orange, floral, terpy, waxy, rose.

Want MORE profiles with Linalool? Check out Top 10 Linalool Dominant Strains!

Myrcene

Myrcene is commonly found in lemongrass, thyme, basil, and mangos. You can also find it in LOTS of beer. Out of the hundreds of oils that are found in hops used to make beer, it’s usually one of the most dominant. β-Myrcene also smells profoundly earthy, woody, and you’ll get distinct notes of cloves, cardamom, fruit, and musk.

• Other Names: Beta-Myrcene, 7-Methyl-3-methylene-1,6-octadiene
• Sources: Bay, ylang-ylang, wild thyme, parsley, cardamom, hops, and more.
• Taste & Smell (Organoleptics): Earthy, fruity, clove-like, peppery, balsam

Want MORE profiles with beta-Myrcene? Check out 5 Myrcene Dominant Strains!

Abstrax Tech | Promoting Innovations in Terpene Science

At Abstrax Tech, we conduct industry-leading, peer-reviewed research to push the industry forward with better education and collaboration. We’re endlessly passionate about aroma science and will continue promoting excellence in research and innovation. 

Do you have questions about incorporating the latest terpene science in your formulations? Want expert assistance developing the right aroma, flavor, and effects for your products? We’re here to help!

Contact our team today, and let’s get to work.