Posted by Kimber McIntyre on Jun 5th 2025
What Are Terpenes? - With the CEO of TerpCanndles
Terpenes are naturally occurring aromatic compounds found in plants, responsible for their distinctive smells and flavors. They also contribute to the color and other characteristics of plants, and are major components of essential oils and resins. In cannabis, terpenes play a key role in determining the flavor and aroma of different strains. In cannabis, terpenes contribute to the diverse range of smells and tastes that characterize different strains, their composition leading to the plant being sativa, indica, or hybrid. (1)
In honor of Terp Week, we sat down with Brandon Garza, CEO of our new brand partner, Terp Canndles, to get the rundown on Terpene Therapy! Terp Canndles provide clean, terpene infused products like candles, wax melts, bath salts, and room sprays for a healthier more organic aromatherapy option made from plant derived ingredients. So we asked them about their products and process to get the 411 on terpene products! Below is our Q&A with Brandon and what they had to say!
For an easier to read FAQ layout, click here.
How do terpenes used in aromatherapy sense benefit the room?
“Terpenes used in aromatherapy can benefit a room in several ways, thanks to their volatile organic nature and therapeutic properties. They contribute to the environment in multiple ways. For example, they enhance the atmosphere.Terpenes like limonene (citrus scent), linalool (floral/lavender scent), and pinene (pine scent) quickly evaporate and fill a room with a pleasant aroma. This can create a relaxing, uplifting, or energizing atmosphere depending on the terpene or mask unpleasant odors naturally,” Brandon Garza states.
They also can significantly affect your mood.
“Many terpenes have psychological benefits when inhaled. Linalool, found in lavender which reduces anxiety and promotes calm, Limonene, found in citrus which uplifts mood and may reduce stress or Myrcene, an Earthy scent; promotes relaxation and sleep. These effects can make a room feel more peaceful or invigorating, supporting mindfulness, sleep, or focus.”
That’s not all! Terpenes are from all types of plants and can be used to improve your quality of life!
“They even purify the air! Some terpenes have antimicrobial properties, helping to inhibit airborne bacteria, viruses and reduce mold and fungal spores in the air. For example, eucalyptol (from eucalyptus) and α-pinene (from pine) can purify the air and potentially improve respiratory health. Inhalation of specific terpenes (especially from eucalyptus, pine, and mint oils) can clear nasal passages and soothe inflammation in the respiratory tract.”
This is especially helpful during cold or allergy seasons!
“Yes! During the summer seasons they can be a natural insect repellant! Some terpenes deter insects. For example, citronellol and geraniol (found in citronella and rose oils) repel mosquitoes. Limonene can deter flies and ants.”
Can terpenes make you high?
“No, terpenes do not make you high on their own.
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis, and they give plants their unique scents (like the citrus smell of limonene or the pine scent of pinene). They are not psychoactive in the way THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is. THC binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, producing the "high." Terpenes do not bind to these receptors in the same way, so they don't cause intoxication or euphoria.” Garza began.
“However, terpenes can influence how you feel! They may modify the effects of THC and CBD through a phenomenon called the "entourage effect". This means that terpenes can potentially affect the intensity or type of high when used in combination with cannabinoids. For example, Myrcene may enhance sedation, Limonene might boost mood and Pinene may reduce memory impairment caused by THC.”
So while terpenes don’t get you high by themselves, they can influence your experience when used with cannabis products.
What if you get the wrong botanical terpene mix, will it affect my mood?
“Yes, getting the wrong botanical terpene mix can affect your mood, depending on the specific terpenes involved and how your body reacts to them. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in plants (including cannabis and many herbs) that interact with your nervous system. They can influence neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, which are directly tied to mood, stress response, and alertness.”
Brandon went on to explain, “If You Get the "Wrong" Mix you may experience sedating effects from indica. You might feel foggy, lethargic, or unmotivated. Too emerged may be from a Sativa. It could cause restlessness, anxiety, or even insomnia. Imbalanced mixes from Hybrids may cause you to feel "off" — not quite yourself emotionally or mentally. Everyone's Body is Different
Your endocannabinoid system (even if you're not using cannabis) interacts with terpenes differently based on your biology, current mood or stress levels, dosage or delivery method (aromatherapy, tinctures, etc.) Start small and track how different blends make you feel. Use pure, well-sourced botanical terpenes to avoid synthetic compounds or contaminants. Consider mixing with a knowledgeable aromatherapist or cannabis specialist if mood regulation is your main goal.”
Am I (or my home) going to smell like weed?
“No you will not and your home will not smell of weed either. Botanical Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants - not just cannabis. Our botanical terpenes are derived from non-cannabis sources, but can be blended to mimic cannabis strains and aromas. The only time you will find terpene candles to smell like weed is strains like OG Kush, Sour Diesel, etc. where we blend the original plant terpenes to smell as such. Candles don’t burn off like plant matter and most terpenes actually come off entirely herbal or sweet.”
What makes a terpene candle or room spray different from any other scented aromatherapy candle or room spray?
“Great question! Terpene candles or room sprays differ from regular scented or aromatherapy products mainly because of what they're scented with and how those ingredients affect the body and mind. Terpenes are organic compounds found in many plants (especially cannabis, citrus, and conifers) that give them their distinctive aromas. While essential oils and fragrance oils contain terpenes, terpene-based products isolate and use specific, pure terpenes to target known therapeutic effects, not just scent. Aromatherapy candles might contain lavender essential oil (which includes linalool, but also many other unnecessary compounds). Terpene candles could contain pure linalool, giving more consistent and predictable effects.”
What are the effects?
“Based on research terpenes are being studied for their neuroactive and physiological effects — they can impact mood, stress, alertness, or relaxation. For example; Limonene is Mood-lifting and energizing, Myrcene is sedating and relaxing, and Beta-Caryophyllene is an Anti-inflammatory that has a calming effect.
Manufacturers of terpene candles/sprays often design blends to elicit specific mental or physical effects, not just to smell pleasant.”
Wow! That’s good to know! So are your products legal?
“Many terpene products are inspired by cannabis profiles (since cannabis is rich in terpenes), but they don’t contain THC or CBD — just the aromatic parts. This makes them legal and non-intoxicating, yet potentially still beneficial.”
Can you use two different candles or sprays at the same time? Will they counteract each other or cause any negative impact?
“Yes, you can use two different terpene-based candles or sprays at the same time, but whether it’s a good idea depends on a few important factors. First, Synergistic Effects (a.k.a. "The Entourage Effect"). Terpenes can work together to enhance or modify each other's effects.
For example, Linalool (calming) and Limonene (uplifting) might create a balanced, relaxed yet energized atmosphere. With layered aromas, some combinations can create more complex and pleasant scents—like how perfumers blend top, middle, and base notes.”
So, it sounds like there’s no downside?
“Well, there are potential downsides to consider. For one, overpowering or Clashing Scents. Some terpenes might not blend well. For instance, pinene (pine-like) and myrcene (earthy/musky) might clash if not balanced carefully. Since we're going for mood enhancement, we have to consider sensory overload or irritation. Too many terpenes in a closed space can be overwhelming or cause headaches, dizziness, or respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.
Remember this, especially if you're using high-concentration sprays like our room spray, less is more.
There’s also mood/effect confusion. If one terpene is sedative (like myrcene or linalool) and another is energizing (like limonene or alpha-pinene), the result might be confusing to the body or cancel each other out depending on the ratios.”
Do you have any tips for safe & effective blending?
“Of Course!” Brandon said.
“Start Small, use less of each to avoid overpowering the space. Ensure good airflow, especially with sprays. Ventilation matters. Test First! Try each scent individually and then blend in small amounts. Go for profiles that complement each other.”
Brandon gave us these examples to try:
- Citrus + floral (limonene + linalool)
- Woody + herbal (pinene + caryophyllene)
- Earthy + sweet (myrcene + limonene)
Bottom Line: Yes, you can mix terpene candles or sprays, but the results depend on the specific terpenes and concentrations. Done thoughtfully, it can be pleasant and even beneficial. But poorly matched or overused combinations can cause discomfort.
What are the benefits of using terpenes with bath soaks?
“Using terpenes in bath soaks offers a range of benefits due to their natural aromatic properties and potential therapeutic effects. Terpenes are organic compounds found in plants (especially in essential oils) that contribute to their aroma, flavor, and in some cases, medicinal properties. They can enhance your bath soak experience just like aromatherapy, mood enhancement. We use plant derived terpenes such as Limonene (found in citrus peels) that are known to provide uplifting, mood-boosting, and stress-reducing benefits. Linalool (found in lavender), is most commonly known to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. Pinene (found in pine) is known to be invigorating and refreshing, which may improve alertness and respiratory function, to name a few.
Terpenes such as myrcene and linalool have sedative effects that can help the body and mind unwind. Bathing in warm water infused with these terpenes can amplify feelings of calm and physical relaxation which aids in stress reduction. Some terpenes have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Beta-caryophyllene, for example, may reduce inflammation and pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Myrcene is commonly associated with muscle relaxation and pain relief. This makes terpene-infused bath soaks potentially helpful for conditions like sore muscles, arthritis, or general body aches.
Terpenes often have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties which may help maintain skin clarity and reduce irritation and can support the skin’s natural barrier function and reduce oxidative stress.
Adding terpenes creates a spa-like atmosphere, transforming a simple bath into a luxurious and therapeutic ritual. The synergy between warm water and aromatic terpenes deepens the sensory experience.”
Any tips when using your bath soaks?
“Use terpene blends or essential oils diluted in a carrier (like Epsom salts, coconut oil, or bath bombs) Avoid direct application of concentrated terpenes—they can irritate skin if not properly diluted. If you don’t know how to use concentrated terpenes, leave it to the professionals and try one of our products! Choose terpenes based on your desired effect.”
What is your favorite product and why?
“Overall I love each product. They all bring something different to the table. Depending on what I am looking for at the moment there's a wide variety of choices. As someone who still plays sports, the bath soaks are fantastic for recovery. So, I will probably have to lean more towards that. I will say though, having a nice Sativa burning at my desk while working hits the spot as well. At night, there's also nothing like spraying my bed with our indica room/linen spray!”
How did we start the company?
“Robert and I (Brandon) started the company in June of 2023. At the time we both worked in the cannabis world together as reps for the extract company Bobsled. I never got into dabs personally but absolutely loved the smell of them. Driving home from a trip in southern Oregon one day I had an idea of infusing terpenes into a candle so we could mimic as closely as possible the smell of a dab without the THC. Robert, who graduated at University of Oregon in Product design picked up my call and jumped right into the idea with me. It took us months upon months to get the formula right and to make sure we are getting the highest quality terpenes.
We launched with just 6, 2 oz candles originally. Now after 2 years we have expanded our line to 2 oz candles, 8 oz candles, wax melts, room sprays, and bath soaks. We are not stopping there. There's more coming down the line that we can not wait to bring to everyone!
Our goal is to continue exploiting the benefits of terpenes in every way we possibly can. We are slowly starting to see more people get educated in it and can't wait to see what the future holds for our brand!”
It’s so interesting to note, people who don’t even partake in the CBD or cannabis world often like the scents and benefit from terpenes as well!
We had a great time talking with Brandon and are proud to announce their products available for purchase now at Natural Healthy. View their whole inventory by visiting their brand page here.
We followed their lead and tried to provide you the availability to choose from Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid strains. They have an impressive product line of candles in two sizes, wax melts, and room sprays available now.
You can check out all the terpene products available in shop by clicking here!
Thanks for learning about terpenes us today! Grab yourself a 5% discount for your whole cart if you have something terpene related in your cart with code TERPART at checkout.
Sources:
- Medical News Today - “What are Terpenes?” - https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-are-terpenes#:~:text=Terpenes%20are%20highly%20aromatic%20compounds,body%20products%2C%20and%20even%20foods.
- Brandon Garza - New Brand Partner Terp Canndles - https://naturalhealthycbd.com/terp-canndles/