Why Terpenes Matter More Than THC % in Your High

When shopping for cannabis flower, it's easy to focus on one number: THC percentage. After all, that number is bold, easy to compare, and often assumed to equal potency. But the reality is, a high THC percentage doesn't always mean a better high. If you want to understand what really shapes your experience, look past the THC number and start paying attention to terpenes.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis (and many other plants). They're responsible for the flavor, smell, and—most importantly—the effects of a strain.

Some common cannabis terpenes include:

• Myrcene – relaxing, sedative

• Limonene – uplifting, stress relief

• Caryophyllene – anti-inflammatory, spicy aroma

• Pinene – alertness, memory retention

• Linalool – calming, anti-anxiety

Terpenes interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to enhance or shape the overall experience. This is known as the entourage effect.

THC Alone Doesn’t Dictate Potency

You might have smoked a 30% THC strain that barely got you buzzed, or a 19% one that hit way harder than expected. Why? Because terpenes help determine how THC feels, not just how much of it is present.

High-THC flower without a strong terpene profile often feels flat, one-note, or even harsh. Meanwhile, terpene-rich flower offers:

• A smoother inhale

• Fuller body sensation

• Targeted effects (e.g., sleepy vs. energetic)

What the Science Says

Multiple studies suggest that THC alone doesn’t explain the experience. A 2020 study published in Scientific Reports found that terpene combinations had more influence over user experience than THC concentration alone.

Other key findings:

• Users preferred lower-THC flower with richer terpene content

• Terpenes like limonene and myrcene contributed to more desirable effects

How to Read Labels Smarter

Instead of asking, "How much THC is in this?" start asking:

• What are the dominant terpenes?

• What effects am I looking for?

• Was the flower cured properly to preserve terpene content?

Most quality brands now list terpene percentages on their lab results or packaging. Look for flower with at least 1.5–2% total terpenes for a fuller effect.

Why This Matters for THCA Flower

With the rise of THCA flower (which converts to THC when smoked), many people chase high THCA numbers—but this is just another trap. Without a rich terpene profile, THCA flower can feel bland or lack depth. The best THCA flower smells loud, tastes fresh, and hits with a layered, tailored high.

Final Thought: Choose Experience Over Numbers

If you're buying based on THC percentage alone, you're likely missing the bigger picture. Terpenes not only enhance the effects of THC, but they also add dimension, nuance, and purpose to your experience.

So next time you're choosing between a 28% THCA strain and a 22% one with killer terps and aroma—go with the one that smells right. Your body will thank you.

FAQ: Terpenes vs. THC

Q: Can terpenes get you high?
A: Not on their own. But they shape how THC affects you and influence the tone of your high.

Q: Is 30% THC always stronger than 20%?
A: Not necessarily. A 20% THC strain with 2.5% terpenes may feel stronger than a 30% strain with no terps.

Q: Do terpenes affect flavor too?
A: Absolutely. They give cannabis its fruity, gassy, spicy, or earthy taste profiles.

Q: How do I know which terpenes I like?
A: Start tracking how different strains make you feel. If you always love relaxing indicas, you probably like myrcene or linalool.

Q: Are terpene levels on every label?
A: Not always. But brands focused on quality often include them—or publish full-panel COAs online.