Terpenes & Cannabinoids: THC% Isn’t All You Should Look For

As we all know, some people use cannabis recreationally, and some use cannabis out of medical necessity. Many cannabis consumers–no matter the reason behind their consumption–believe that a product’s quality and effectiveness are solely determined by its THC content. While the amount of THC does influence the psychoactive “high,” the true effect primarily lies within the specific blend of terpenes and other cannabinoids present in the product.

The Entourage Effect

The Entourage Effect is the hypothesis that cannabis compounds within the plant—specifically cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids—work synergistically to produce specific effects. This means, of course, that THC and CBD are still significant when considering a product, but those are only a small part of the entire experience. 

Different cannabinoids, beyond THC, can result in varied effects. Some of these compounds may target pain receptors, induce sleepiness, or even provide an uplifting feeling. The presence of terpenes in the product also contributes to the overall effects.

What Are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are a diverse class of chemical compounds that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce various effects on mood, pain sensation, appetite, and memory. They include phytocannabinoids from the cannabis plant (like THC and CBD), endocannabinoids produced naturally by the body, and synthetic cannabinoids.

The ECS naturally occurs in the body, but how your ECS interacts with different compounds is unique to you and your personal physiology.

The Most Common Cannabinoids

1.THC

Tetrahydrocannabinol is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for the “high,” causing mind-altering effects by stimulating brain cells to release dopamine.

It may induce euphoria, relaxation, and altered sensory perceptions, but it can also cause anxiety, paranoia, impaired memory, increased heart rate, and dry mouth. That’s where the accompanying terpenes and cannabinoids make all the difference.

2.CBD

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive, natural compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant, widely used for therapeutic purposes without causing a “high”. CBD often needs a little bit of THC to be activated–less than 1% THC will even do the trick.

It is commonly used to alleviate anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, and inflammation without psychoactive effects. It’s legally sold and consumed all over the nation, despite any federal or state restrictions on cannabis. This is because the THC content must be equal to or less than 0.4%, which is generally not enough to get you high.

3.CBN

CBN (cannabinol) is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid formed when THC ages and breaks down via heat, light, and oxygen exposure.

Known for potential sedative properties, it is commonly used for sleep, pain relief, and appetite stimulation. Unlike THC, it is largely non-intoxicating but may produce slight sedation

4.CBG

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, often called the “mother of all cannabinoids,” because it is the precursor to THC and CBD. As a therapeutic compound, it acts as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and neuroprotective agent.

It is known to boost mood, reduce pain, aid in sleep, and potentially treat conditions like irritable bowel disease, glaucoma, and certain cancers.

5.CBC

CBC (cannabichromene) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis, derived from CBG. Known for its mood-boosting and potential therapeutic properties, it does not produce a “high”.

Key effects include anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and potential neuroprotective benefits, often working synergistically with other cannabinoids through the entourage effect.

6.THCV

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a minor cannabinoid found in cannabis that acts as a psychoactive, energizing compound, often nicknamed “diet weed” for its appetite-suppressing properties.

Unlike THC, THCV typically offers a clearer-headed, shorter-duration high that boosts energy, reduces anxiety, and supports metabolic health.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are natural chemicals found in many plants, including cannabis. They contribute to how plants taste or smell, and they can also affect your body when you consume them.

Terpenes can also have effects in the body when you smell or consume them. The most well-known example of this is the role of terpenes in cannabis.

Along with the cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD) in the plant, the terpenes contribute to how cannabis makes you feel. So even if two cannabis plants have the same cannabinoid content, if they have different terpenes, each plant will affect you differently. 

The Most Common Terpenes

1. Myrcene

Myrcene, a common cannabis terpene also in lemongrass, bay leaves, and hops (used in beer), has a musky, spicy aroma. It is known for its relaxing, sleepy effects, making it useful for sleep or stress.

However, amounts under 0.5% have been reported as energizing. Additionally, animal studies suggest myrcene reduces pain and inflammation, though human verification is pending.

2. Beta-caryophyllene

Beta-caryophyllene, the main terpene in black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and oregano, has a woody, peppery scent. Uniquely, it is also a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). It’s often sought out to relieve stress and chronic pain.

Research also suggests it may have strong anti-inflammatory effects and is being studied for its potential in treating cancer, depression, anxiety, obesity, and Type 2 diabetes. However, more human studies are necessary.

3. Limonene

Limonene, a common terpene in cannabis and citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, has a distinct, crisp, citrusy scent. It’s also found in citronella, an insect repellent.

Users report limonene has mood-lifting and stress-relieving effects without causing drowsiness. Research suggests it may reduce anxiety caused by THC.

Studies indicate limonene may help reduce pain, inflammation, and stress, and potentially protect against diabetes, cancer, and certain brain conditions. More human studies are also needed to confirm this.

4. Pinene

Pinene, a terpene found in pine, rosemary, and basil, has a fresh, woodsy scent.

Users report that pinene-rich cannabis enhances focus and alertness, possibly based on animal studies showing it improved memory and brain function in conditions like Alzheimer’s and stroke. However, human evidence for cognitive improvement is limited.

Early research suggests pinene may have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antioxidant, and antidepressant/anti-anxiety effects. It may also help open airways, which could aid breathing conditions like asthma. Most of these potential benefits still lack backing from human studies.

5. Linalool

Linalool is the terpene that gives lavender its woodsy, floral smell. It’s also found in sweet basil, bergamot, and eucalyptus.  

Linalool is known for its calming, anti-anxiety effects. People say it makes them feel relaxed and at ease. 

Linalool is often associated with the sedative effects of lavender. Studies show it may help improve sleep. Linalool may also have pain-relieving and antidepressant effects.

6. Humulene

Humulene is a terpene found in wild carrot, marjoram, and hops in addition to cannabis. A lot of people seek out humulene because they’ve heard it suppresses appetite and prevents the “munchies” from happening. 

Animal studies show that humulene may have significant anti-cancer effects when added to certain chemotherapy treatments. But this hasn’t been confirmed in humans.

Sativas/ Indicas VS. Terpenes

It’s becoming more widely known that sativas, indicas, and hybrids aren’t the most accurate or specific classifications of cannabis strains. They can often be helpful, but you shouldn’t rely on these standards alone.

Experts recommend looking at the specific cannabinoids and terpenes in a cannabis product to help predict its effects. This is more reliable than just looking at whether it’s classified as an indica or a sativa.

How Terpenes & Cannabinoids Are Absorbed

Terpenes are best absorbed by the body through inhalation or sublingual consumption. Edibles themselves do not allow the effects of terpenes that may shine through.

In the specific case of edibles, cannabinoids are the thing to look for (yes, including THC and CBD) as they are often not particularly affected by the mode of consumption.

How Do You Find Products with Specific Terpenes and Cannabinoids?

Please note that this article is written in Washington, so our advice is in accordance with Washington State law regarding cannabis and consumption.

That being said, the best way to find cannabis products with specific terpenes is to talk to your budtender when purchasing your cannabis from a licensed dispensary. They can also provide lab tests known as “Certificates of Analysis” (or, “COA’s”) that show the terpenes and cannabinoids in each product.

You can always ask to see the COA of a product, as dispensaries are required to have them on hand. These tests also show you if any traces of pesticides and toxins are present in your product. (Something you don’t have to worry about with Fairwinds and Passion Flower products)

Examples of Terpene and Cannabinoid Blends

Here at Fairwinds, the main concept behind each of our products is health and wellness, meaning each product is formulated very carefully with different terpenes and cannabinoids. 

Examples of this include our “Deep Sleep + CBN” tincture or vape cart, which of course is formulated to act as a sleep aid. Or our Ratio line, which provides multiple ratios of THC to CBD, allowing you to choose whichever is best for you.

The product that best showcases the Entourage Effect, however, is our Spectrum 3000 tincture.The product that best showcases the Entourage Effect, however, is our Spectrum 3000 tincture.

More About Spectrum 3000

Spectrum 3000 is a tincture formulated to provide maximum support and a wide spectrum of benefits. Designed to be non-intoxicating while still leveraging the entourage effects, this tincture is crafted with essential oils, terpenes, herbal extracts, and a full spectrum of cannabinoids.

There is an AM formula and a PM formula. Spectrum 3000 AM is formulated to help jumpstart your day and enhance the wellbeing of your body and mind. The AM formula supports:

• Memory, focus, & energy
• Inflammation reduction
• Neuroprotection
• Body & mind comfort
• Improved digestion

Spectrum 3000 PM is formulated to help you release tension in your body and enjoy a calmer state of mind – supporting a relaxing day or peaceful night.

The PM formula supports:

• Relaxation & tranquility
• Inflammation reduction
• Neuroprotection
• Body & mind comfort
• Improved digestion

If this product sounds like what you’re looking for, you can ask any licensed dispensary in Washington State if they are selling our Spectrum 3000 formula.

Now You’re A Terpene and Cannabinoid Expert

There is a lot more to learn when it comes to this topic–this article is merely scratching the surface. But this is a good base knowledge towards all of it.

You can now speak more in-depth with your budtender, research more of the hundreds of cannabinoids and terpenes that exist, and cater your cannabis experience to meet your exact needs.