What’s the difference between terpenes and terpenoids? These two terms may get used interchangeably online, but they're not quite the same thing. And if you’re into the experience of cannabis and hemp, it’s worth knowing which is which and why it matters.
Let’s explore the world of terpenes and terpenoids, explaining their key differences, and how they affect the consumer experience.
Terpenoids vs. Terpenes at a Glance: Terpenes are naturally occurring, unmodified aromatic compounds found in cannabis and other plants. Terpenoids are terpenes that have been chemically altered through processes such as drying, curing, or heat exposure. The two are related but distinct, and the difference affects their flavor, aroma, and the overall consumption experience.
Terpenes vs. Terpenoids: What's the Difference?
The names may look similar, but are terpenes and terpenoids the same? Not quite. The major difference between terpenes and terpenoids is that terpenes are the major raw, unmodified aromatic compounds you’ll find in cannabis and hemp, whereas terpenoids have been subtly modified through natural processes such as drying, curing, or heat exposure to change their chemical composition.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are naturally occurring, unmodified aromatic plant compounds that shape the scent, flavor, and sensory experience of cannabis and hemp, as well as many thousands of other natural products. To learn more about these fascinating natural chemicals, visit our Terpene page.
What Are Terpenoids?
The major distinction between terpenoids vs. terpenes is that terpenoids are terpenes that have been altered through some form of processing. This might include oxidation, drying, curing, and/or heat exposure, all of which have the potential to transform a terpene's chemical structure into that of a terpenoid.
Why the Distinction Matters
Whether a given compound remains a terpene or is transformed into a terpenoid has an effect on the overall sensory experience of cannabis or hemp. The specific processing method used affects which compounds show up in a final product.
In general, terpenes define the fresh aroma and top notes of a cannabis or hemp product, while terpenoids create the deeper base notes and subtler aged flavors.
|
Terpene / Terpenoid |
Origin |
State |
Example |
|
Myrcene |
Terpene found in mangoes, lemongrass, hops, and cannabis |
Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
The earthy, musky aroma common in many cannabis strains |
|
Limonene |
Terpene found in the rinds of citrus fruits like lemons and oranges |
Colorless liquid |
The bright, zesty scent of fresh orange peel |
|
Linalool |
Terpene found in lavender, coriander, and some cannabis strains |
Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
The floral scent characteristic of lavender fields |
|
Caryophyllene |
Terpene found in black pepper, cloves, and cannabis |
Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
The spicy, peppery bite in ground black pepper |
|
Humulene |
Terpene found in hops, ginseng, basil and other herbs |
Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
The sharply bitter, herbal, and woody scent in beer |
|
Citronellol |
Terpenoid found in citronella, rose, lemongrass and other plants |
Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
The fresh, floral, and slightly citrusy aroma in roses, lemon grass and other flowers |
|
Pinene |
The most abundant terpene in nature, found in pine trees and other evergreens |
Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
Depending on the alpha- or beta- subtype, bracing aroma of pine needles or fresh herbs such as basil and dill |
The Entourage Effect of Terpenes and Terpenoids
Whether it’s a raw terpene or a processed terpenoid, these compounds don't work alone. There’s a growing consensus that they interact with other compounds such as cannabinoids in what's known as the entourage effect. Simply put, the entourage effect is a theory explaining why certain compounds appear to modulate or strengthen each others’ effects.
Here at URB, understanding the power of the entourage effect is a major principle when it comes to creating our signature effects-based blends. It’s why our custom profiles lean on cannabinoids, terpenoids, and terpenes to deliver specific, consistent, effects-based experiences.
You can learn more about this fascinating aspect of cannabis and hemp with our deep-dive guide.
Common Terpenes and Terpenoids
The major terpenes and terpenoids difference centers in large part on their differing chemical structures, with terpenoids often exhibiting more potent or stable chemical properties because they contain extra functional oxygen groups. Here’s an introduction to some of the most common:
- Myrcene: Rich, earthy, musky and herbal, myrcene is a crucial cannabis compound.
- Limonene: Citrusy, bright and cheerful, this mood-boosting terpene adds an energizing zing.
- Linalool: a floral, lavender-scented terpene with naturally calming properties that may support sleep and promote relaxation.
- Caryophyllene: A peppery terpene linked to calm, focus, and balance that’s often associated with balance and mood support.
- Citronellol: Found in roses, lemon grass and other flowers, this monoterpenoid is associated with a fresh, floral, and slightly citrusey aroma inspiring relaxation and a sense of lightness.
- Ocimene: Found most notably in orchids, this compound gives off warm, woody, and floral fragrances that many find both engaging and inviting.
- Humulene: Instantly recognizable as the major aromatic compound in hops, this bitter and herbal terpene is naturally calming and is associated with a gentle boost in creativity.
Explore Terpene-Rich Products with URB
If you love the experience of cannabis and hemp, understanding the difference between terpenes and terpenoids is a major clue to unlocking their effects. Because each one imparts specific aromatic and sensory notes, these compounds are key to the overall cannabis experience.
Ready to explore some memorable terpenes and terpenoids yourself? Our live resin collection leans on the power of flash-frozen cannabis to impart truly out-of-this-world flavors and aromas. Whichever ones you choose, you’ll fly with confidence knowing they’re made with 100% USA-grown, lab-tested hemp for potency, purity, and reliable effects-based explorations.
FAQs About Terpenes vs. Terpenoids
What is the difference between terpenes and terpenoids?
Terpenes are naturally occurring, unmodified aromatic compounds found in cannabis and other plants. Terpenoids are terpenes that have been chemically altered through processes such as drying, curing, or heat exposure. The two are related but different, each affecting flavor, aroma, and the overall consumption experience.
Are terpenoids stronger than terpenes?
No. Terpenoids are not inherently "stronger" than terpenes, but they often exhibit more potent or stable chemical properties because they contain extra functional oxygen groups. Terpenes are pure hydrocarbons, while terpenoids have been chemically altered through oxidation or other processes.
Do terpenoids affect flavor?
Yes. Like terpenes, terpenoids impart distinctive aromas and flavors to hemp and cannabis products. Some feel that terpenes define the fresh aroma and top notes, while terpenoids create the deeper base notes and subtler aged flavors.
Are terpenes and terpenoids found in the same products?
Yes, they can be. Terpenoids and terpenes typically appear in hemp and cannabis products; the difference is that terpenoids are terpenes that have been chemically altered through drying, curing, or heat exposure.
Do terpenoids affect the experience the same way terpenes do?
Yes and no. Terpenoids affect the overall experience much as terpenes do thanks to their similar aromatic profiles, but their chemical structure differs due to oxidation. This structural change alters how they interact with your body, modifying volatility, absorption, and potency in the entourage effect.
