When it comes to cannabis, THC and CBD get most of the spotlight—but without terpenes, you're only getting half the story. Terpenes are natural compounds found in all kinds of plants that give each plant its unique smell and flavor. When you crack open a jar of your favorite strain and that fresh wave of citrus, gas, or pine hits your nose? That’s terpenes at work.

While terpenes shape the taste and smell of cannabis, they also play a major role in the mood, energy, and feel of your high. Understanding how terpenes work and interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) can deepen your appreciation of cannabis and its potential benefits.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are basically the essential oils of the cannabis plant. They are responsible for the distinct scents and flavors we associate with various cannabis strains—from the zesty citrus of Lemon Haze to the earthy pine of OG Kush.

But terpenes do more than smell good. While terpenes don’t produce psychoactive effects themselves, they influence the overall cannabis experience by interacting with cannabinoids and other compounds. This interaction can amplify the therapeutic benefits of a strain and intensify effects such as relaxation, focus, or pain relief.

Common Terpenes and Their Effects:

• Myrcene: Also found in mangoes and hops, Myrcene is known for its earthy aroma and sedative, relaxing effects.
• Limonene: Gives off citrusy notes and has been known to elevate mood and reduce stress.
• Linalool: Floral and lavender-like in aroma, this terpene is often associated with calming, anti-anxiety effects.
• Caryophyllene: Spicy and peppery in profile, this terpene is unique for its ability to bind directly to CB2 receptors, potentially helping to reduce inflammation.

What Are High Terpene Extracts (HTE)?

High Terpene Extracts (HTE) are potent, full-spectrum extracts that capture the rich blend of terpenes and cannabinoids found in raw cannabis. Unlike isolated terpenes or synthetic flavors, HTE delivers the plant’s natural aroma, flavor, and potential effects—just as nature intended.

10DC HTE is specially extracted to preserve not only a strain’s terpene profile but also high concentrations of THCa and other native cannabinoids. This creates a powerful synergy known as the entourage effect, where terpenes and cannabinoids work together to enhance the overall experience.

Thanks to this combination, our HTE isn’t just about taste—it amplifies the effects. Whether you’re adding it to carts, concentrates, or dabs, expect bold flavor, smooth vapor, and potent, strain-specific results.

Why Terpenes (and HTE) Matter

Terpenes do more than just smell nice—they actually work with cannabinoids to shape your experience. This is part of what’s known as the entourage effect, which is a fancy way of saying everything in the plant works better together than on its own.

Just like cannabinoids, terpenes interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a complex network of receptors that helps regulate mood, pain, and more. This interaction can influence the “high” and overall effects associated with cannabis use. Terpenes influence how cannabis interacts with your body through several mechanisms:

1. Receptor Activity: Some terpenes, like caryophyllene, can bind to CB2 receptors in the ECS, potentially reducing inflammation and providing pain relief without psychoactive effects.
2. Enzyme Inhibition: Terpenes such as limonene and linalool may may slow down the breakdown of natural endocannabinoids in your body. Natural endocannabinoids are chemicals your body makes naturally that help keep things balanced, like mood, appetite, and pain. Slowing their breakdown means they can work longer to support your well-being.
3. Neurotransmitter Influence: When terpenes work alongside cannabinoids, they can alter or enhance the overall experience. For example, THC paired with myrcene may feel more relaxing than THC alone.

With HTE, these effects are amplified thanks to a concentrated blend of multiple terpenes and cannabinoids working in harmony. This synergy delivers a richer, more balanced experience, as the terpenes and cannabinoids boost each other’s impact.

Why It Matters

Understanding terpenes—and products like HTE—can help you choose cannabis that’s better aligned with your goals, whether that’s staying sharp, easing discomfort, or winding down.

Cannabis isn’t just about THC percentage. Aroma, flavor, and terpene content are key parts of what makes each product unique. Paying attention to these elements can help you get more out of your experience—flavor-wise, effect-wise, and wellness-wise.