In today’s cannabis market, terpenes are everywhere. From vape cartridges to infused beverages, brands are highlighting terpenes as a key part of the consumer experience. But not all terpenes are created equal. Two of the most common types—cannabis-derived terpenes and botanical terpenes—may sound similar, but they offer very different experiences.
So what’s the real difference between them, and why does it matter? Let’s break it down.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are natural compounds found in many plants, responsible for their aroma and flavor. They’re what give pine trees their crisp scent, citrus fruits their zesty notes, and lavender its calming fragrance.
Cannabis is especially rich in terpenes, producing complex profiles that make each strain unique. That’s why terpenes are often described as the “fingerprint” of cannabis.
What Are Cannabis-Derived Terpenes?
Cannabis derived terpenes are extracted directly from cannabis plants. They carry the authentic, strain-specific aroma and flavor of the plant. For example, the lemony freshness of a limonene-rich strain or the earthy musk of a myrcene-heavy variety can only be fully replicated with terpenes sourced from cannabis itself.
Key Features:
- Captures the exact profile of the strain
- Delivers authentic cannabis aroma and flavor
- THC- and CBD-free options available (compliant in all 50 states)
- Considered the gold standard for true-to-plant experiences
What Are Botanical Terpenes?
Botanical terpenes are derived from other plants such as citrus, lavender, pine, or herbs. For instance, limonene extracted from oranges may smell similar to limonene in cannabis, but it doesn’t reflect the full chemical complexity of a cannabis strain.
Key Features:
- Extracted from non-cannabis plants
- Often less expensive to produce
- Can mimic certain aromas but lack strain authenticity
- Commonly used in flavoring and fragrance industries
Cannabis-Derived vs. Botanical Terpenes: The Key Differences
| Feature | Cannabis-Derived Terpenes | Botanical Terpenes |
| Source | Extracted from cannabis plants | Extracted from other plants (citrus, herbs, etc.) |
| Authenticity | True-to-plant strain profiles | Mimics certain scents but lacks complexity |
| Cost | Higher (due to limited supply & process) | Lower (abundant sources, easier extraction) |
| Experience | Rich, layered, strain-specific | Simplified, one-dimensional flavors |
| Compliance | THC- and CBD-free, legal in all 50 states | Fully legal but not strain-authentic |
Why Authentic Cannabis-Derived Terpenes Matter
While botanical terpenes can create familiar flavors, they don’t capture the unique synergy of compounds found in cannabis. Cannabis derived terpenes provide:
- Authentic strain replication for vapes, edibles, and concentrates
- Consistency across batches through terpene profiling
- Deeper consumer connection with real cannabis aromas and flavors
For brands that value quality and authenticity, cannabis-derived terpenes are the clear choice.
Final Thoughts
Both cannabis-derived and botanical terpenes have their place in the market. Botanical terpenes offer affordability and accessibility, while cannabis derived terpenes deliver unmatched authenticity and strain-specific experiences.
As cannabis products evolve, consumers are increasingly looking for the real thing—flavors and aromas that truly reflect the plant. That’s why cannabis-derived terpenes aren’t just different; they’re the future of authentic cannabis innovation.
