Terpenes are a large and diverse class of organic compounds, produced by a variety of plants, particularly conifers, and by some insects. They often have a strong odor and may protect the plants that produce them by deterring herbivores and by attracting predators and parasites of herbivores
Myrcene-
Aroma: Cardamom, cloves, musky, earthy, herbal
Vaporizes at: 332ºF (167ºC)
Potential effects: Sedating, relaxing
Potential therapeutic value: Antioxidant; treatment of insomnia, pain, and inflammation
Also found in: Mango, lemongrass, thyme, hops
Limonene
Aroma: Citrus
Vaporizes at: 348ºF (176ºC)
Potential effects: Elevated mood, stress relief
Potential therapeutic value: Treatment of anxiety, depression, inflammation, pain, and cancer
Also found in: Fruit rinds, rosemary, juniper, peppermint
Caryophyllene
Aroma: Pepper, spicy, woody, cloves
Vaporizes at: 266ºF (130ºC)
Potential effects: Stress relief
Potential therapeutic value: Treatment of pain, anxiety/depression, ulcers
Also found in: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon
Terpinolene
Aroma: Piney, floral, and herbal
Vaporizes at: 366ºF (186ºC)
Potential effects: Uplifting
Potential therapeutic value: Antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-cancer
Also found in: Nutmeg, tea tree, conifers, apples, cumin, and lilacs
Pinene
Aroma: Pine
Vaporizes at: 311ºF (155ºC)
Potential effects: Alertness, memory retention, counteracts some THC effects
Potential therapeutic value: Treatment of asthma, pain, inflammation, ulcers, anxiety, cancer
Also found in: Pine needles, rosemary, basil, parsley, dill