In dispensaries or with your local street pharmacist you've probably heard terms like sativa or indica, even hybrid. These terms come from 18th century botany, which only give you a rough expectation of effects. Then came the names like Kush, AK47, Sour Diesel, or even Green Crack. These were no better but now you can get a better grasp at what effects you're getting with terpenes.
Terpenes are part of the plant's natural defense system. They're also in charge of creating the scent and flavor profile of the cannabis plant. I've listed a few terpenes including their effects, scent, and other plants they're found in. This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.
Terpenes by Effect
Relaxing / Sedative
Myrcene
Effects: Sedative, muscle relaxant, enhances THC "couch-lock" effect
Scent: Earthy, musky, herbal, tropical
Also found in: Hops, mangoes, thyme, lemongrass
Linalool
Effects: Calming, anti-anxiety, sedative, antispasmodic
Scent: Floral, lavender, lilac
Also found in: Lavender, lilac, basil, rosewood
Trans-Nerolidol
Effects: Sedative, anxiolytic, antifungal, antioxidant
Scent: Woody, citrusy, floral, tea-like
Also found in: Jasmine, tea tree, lemongrass, ginger
Phytol
Effects: Relaxing, anxiolytic, antioxidant, may act as antidepressant
Scent: Fresh, grassy, green tea-like
Also found in: Green tea, wild lettuce, chlorophyll
Bisabolol
Effects: Calming, analgesic, skin healing, anti-inflammatory
Scent: Sweet, floral, chamomile-like
Also found in: Chamomile, candeia tree
Uplifting / Energizing
Limonene
Effects: Uplifting, mood-enhancing, anti-anxiety
Scent: Citrusy, lemon, orange
Also found in: Citrus rinds, dill, juniper, peppermint
α-Pinene
Effects: Boosts alertness and memory, anti-inflammatory
Scent: Fresh pine, resinous, woodsy
Also found in: Pine needles, rosemary, basil, parsley
Supportive / Balancing
β-Caryophyllene
Effects: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, digestive support
Scent: Spicy, peppery
Also found in: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, oregano
Humulene
Effects: Anti-inflammatory, appetite suppressant, antibacterial
Scent: Earthy, woody, hoppy
Also found in: Hops, coriander, basil, cloves