The minuscule glands of the hemp plant that excrete cannabinoids also produce terpenes, which are what gives the hemp plant its distinct aromas. Terpenes are not exclusive to hemp, and can be found throughout nature. For example, the terpenes alpha-pinene and beta-pinene both smell of pine, and can be found in pine needles, rosemary, and basil. In addition to providing the pine scent, both also have therapeutic benefits, as they are analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and antioxidants.

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Both cannabinoids (such as cannabidiol or CBD), and terpenes (such as alpha-pinene) have documented medicinal uses, and in the right concentrations, they can be independently effective. But, research shows that when both terpenes and cannabinoids are present, a synergy arises, otherwise known as the “entourage effect”. Meaning, although CBD-only products can have anti-anxiety or anti-inflammatory properties, when terpenes are introduced, along with the other 113 cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, the pharmaceutical benefits of both the CBD and the terpenes are increased tenfold.