What Are Terpenes and Why Should You Care?

TL;DR

• Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants (including hemp) that shape smell and flavor.
• In hemp, terpenes are concentrated in the plant’s trichomes (the same resin glands where cannabinoids are found).
• Research suggests terpenes may contribute to the so-called “entourage effect,” but this is still an evolving area and not a proven medical claim.
• To shop smarter: look for a recent third-party Certificate of Analysis (COA) that includes a terpene panel, and store products properly to protect aroma.

The bright zing of lemon peel, the crisp snap of pine, the calming scent of lavender—those familiar aromas come largely from
terpenes. Terpenes are common across the plant world, and hemp is no exception. If you’ve ever noticed two hemp flower
jars with the same cannabinoid percentage but very different aroma, you’ve already experienced terpene differences firsthand.

I’m Taylor Moss, and I’ve spent the last 12 years covering sustainable hemp farming and product trends. This guide explains what terpenes
are, how they show up in hemp, what we can (and can’t) responsibly say about their effects, and how to use terpene information to choose
products with more confidence.

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds produced by many plants. They contribute to a plant’s aroma and
can also play roles in plant survival—such as deterring pests or attracting pollinators. Terpenes are a major component of many
essential oils used in foods, fragrances, and botanicals.

Botanists have identified a vast number of terpene and terpenoid compounds across plant species. A widely cited review in
New Phytologist discusses why plants produce such a large diversity of these compounds and how they function in ecology.
Pichersky & Raguso (2018)

In hemp, terpenes are especially concentrated in trichomes—the tiny resin glands on the flower that also contain
cannabinoids. That’s why well-cured, terpene-rich flower tends to smell more vivid and “strain-specific” than overly dry or poorly stored
material.

How do terpenes work in hemp products?

Terpenes are best understood as sensory drivers (aroma and flavor) and as part of hemp’s broader chemical profile.
In cannabis science, you’ll often hear the term “entourage effect”—the idea that cannabinoids and other compounds may
influence the overall experience when present together.

Importantly, the entourage effect remains an active research topic. Some papers propose plausible mechanisms and interactions, but it’s not
appropriate to treat terpene profiles as guaranteed predictors of medical outcomes.
A frequently cited discussion appears in the British Journal of Pharmacology.
Russo (2011)

From a practical shopping standpoint, terpenes can help explain why two products with similar cannabinoid numbers may smell, taste, and feel
different to different people—especially with inhalable products where aroma compounds are more noticeable.

Why do terpenes matter? (Benefits, without the hype)

• Better flavor and aroma: Terpenes are the main reason one flower cultivar smells citrusy while another smells earthy or
  peppery.
• More informed product selection: A terpene panel can be a useful “second layer” of information beyond cannabinoids alone.
• Signals about freshness and handling: Because terpenes are volatile, a muted aroma can indicate age, heat exposure, or
  improper storage.
• Potential interactions (research-in-progress): Reviews have explored how terpenes might influence absorption or
  experience, but conclusions vary and should be interpreted cautiously.
  Kamal et al. (2021)

Common terpenes in hemp (and what they smell like)

Researchers have identified many terpenes in Cannabis sativa, and terpene profiles can differ by genetics, cultivation, harvest
timing, drying/curing, and storage.
Booth & Bohlmann (2019)

If you want to explore terpene profiles by cultivar, start with products that publish full COAs and terpene panels. You can also browse our
educational resources for hemp shoppers:
Wild Orchard Hemp Blog.

Who are terpene-rich hemp products best for?

• Flavor-first shoppers: If taste and aroma matter as much as cannabinoid numbers, terpene panels help you shop by profile.
• People comparing “similar” products: Terpenes can explain why two items with similar cannabinoids feel different to you.
• Anyone who values transparency: Brands that test and publish terpene content often also provide better overall batch
  documentation.
• Freshness-sensitive customers: Because terpenes dissipate with heat/time, terpene-forward products reward good storage.

How to choose terpene-forward hemp products (step-by-step)

1. Check for a recent third-party COA: Look for a terpene panel and confirm the batch number matches your product.
   (If you’re shopping on Wild Orchard Hemp, start here: Lab Results.)
2. Prioritize full labeling: Prefer products that list major terpenes (not just “botanical terpenes” with no specifics).
3. Decide whether you want cannabis-derived or botanical terpenes: Both can be legal and common; cannabis-derived profiles
   may feel more “strain-true,” while botanical terpenes can be formulated for specific flavor goals.
4. Match the format to your goals: Aroma is most noticeable with inhalable products; it’s subtler in capsules and many
   edibles.
5. Store properly: Keep products sealed, cool, and away from light to reduce terpene loss.

Are terpenes legal in hemp products?

Terpenes themselves are widely found in nature and are commonly used in foods and fragrances. In the hemp marketplace, legality typically
hinges on the product’s compliance with applicable hemp laws (for example, federal hemp definitions and state-specific rules), not on the
presence of terpenes alone.

If you’re evaluating hemp-derived products in the U.S., confirm that the seller provides batch-specific lab testing and that the product is
marketed and sold in compliance with your state’s rules. When in doubt, consult your local regulations or a qualified attorney.

FAQs about terpenes

What’s the difference between terpenes and cannabinoids?

Terpenes primarily contribute aroma and flavor. Cannabinoids (like CBD) interact more directly with the body’s
endocannabinoid system. Many hemp products contain both.

Do terpenes change how a hemp product feels?

They may influence the overall experience for some people, especially through aroma and preference. Research on synergy exists, but terpene
profiles are not reliable predictors of specific outcomes for every person.

How can I tell which terpenes are in a product?

Look for a third-party COA that includes a terpene panel (often listed in mg/g or %). If a brand won’t provide batch
testing, consider that a red flag.

Are “botanical terpenes” the same as cannabis terpenes?

Many terpenes are identical molecules regardless of source (for example, limonene from citrus or from cannabis). The difference is the
blend and how closely it matches a cannabis cultivar’s natural profile.

What’s the best way to preserve terpenes at home?

Store products sealed, cool, and away from light. Heat and air exposure accelerate terpene evaporation and oxidation.

Bottom line

Terpenes are a practical, shopper-friendly way to understand why hemp products smell and taste the way they do—and why two products with
similar cannabinoid numbers can still feel different. If you want to use terpenes wisely, focus on transparent COAs, realistic expectations,
and proper storage.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and does not provide medical or legal advice. Hemp products may affect individuals
differently. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using hemp-derived products, especially if you are pregnant/nursing, have a
medical condition, or take medications. Always follow local laws and product labeling.

About the Author

Taylor Moss is an award-winning freelance journalist focused on sustainable hemp farming and innovative product trends.
Drawing from 12 years of experience, Taylor emphasizes trust, potency, and ethical sourcing in the cannabis space.