Understanding Cannabis Terpenes: What Those Labels Mean

If you’ve browsed cannabis products at an Ottawa dispensary, you’ve probably noticed labels listing things like “myrcene,” “limonene,” or “pinene” alongside THC and CBD percentages. These are terpenes — and understanding them can help you make more informed choices about the products you purchase.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, not just cannabis. They’re responsible for the distinct smells of lavender, pine trees, citrus fruits, and yes — different cannabis strains.

In cannabis, terpenes are produced in the same glands that create cannabinoids like THC and CBD. While cannabinoids are often the focus, terpenes contribute significantly to each strain’s unique aroma and flavour profile.

Key point: Terpenes are what make one strain smell like fresh pine and another like ripe mangoes.

The Most Common Cannabis Terpenes

Here’s a breakdown of terpenes you’ll frequently see on cannabis labels in Ontario:

Myrcene

• Aroma: Earthy, musky, with hints of clove
• Also found in: Mangoes, lemongrass, hops
• Notes: The most common terpene in cannabis. Strains high in myrcene often have a distinctive herbal scent.

Limonene

• Aroma: Citrus, lemon, orange
• Also found in: Lemon rinds, orange peels, juniper
• Notes: Gives certain strains their bright, zesty smell. Easy to identify if you’ve ever peeled an orange.

Pinene

• Aroma: Pine, fresh forest
• Also found in: Pine needles, rosemary, basil
• Notes: One of the most common terpenes in nature. Responsible for that “walk in the woods” scent in some strains.

Linalool

• Aroma: Floral, lavender, subtle spice
• Also found in: Lavender, birch bark, coriander
• Notes: Adds a softer, more floral quality to cannabis aroma profiles.

Caryophyllene

• Aroma: Peppery, spicy, woody
• Also found in: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon
• Notes: Distinctive spicy kick. If a strain smells peppery, caryophyllene is likely present.

How to Read Terpene Labels

When you look at a cannabis product label in Ontario, you’ll typically see:

1. THC and CBD percentages — the cannabinoid content
2. Terpene names — often the top 2-3 terpenes present
3. Terpene percentages — how much of each (if provided)

What the Numbers Mean

• High terpene content (2%+): Expect a more pronounced aroma and flavour
• Moderate content (1-2%): Noticeable but not overwhelming
• Low content (<1%): Subtle contribution to overall profile

Using Terpenes to Guide Your Selection

Instead of choosing products based solely on THC percentage, consider what aromas and flavours you prefer:

• If you like citrus, bright scents → Look for high limonene
• If you like earthy, herbal aromas → Look for high myrcene
• If you like fresh, piney smells → Look for high pinene
• If you like floral, lavender notes → Look for high linalool
• If you like spicy, peppery kick → Look for high caryophyllene

Pro tip: If you find a product you enjoy, note its terpene profile. This can help you find similar products in the future — even from different brands.

Terpenes and Storage

Terpenes are volatile compounds, meaning they can degrade over time — especially when exposed to heat, light, and air. To preserve the terpene profile of your cannabis:

• Store in a cool, dark place
• Use airtight containers
• Avoid leaving products in direct sunlight or hot cars

The Bottom Line

Terpenes are the unsung heroes of cannabis — responsible for the complex aromas and flavours that make each strain unique. By learning to read terpene labels, you can move beyond THC percentages and make choices based on the full profile of what you’re purchasing.

Visit High Ties at any of our Ottawa locations and ask our team about terpene profiles. We’re happy to help you find products that match your preferences.