If you’re new to cannabis vapes, you might have seen labels boasting “cannabis-derived terpenes” or “botanical terpenes.” While both contribute to the aroma, flavor, and effects of your vape, they’re not the same—and understanding the difference can help you make more informed choices.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are natural aromatic compounds found in many plants, not just cannabis. They’re what give pine trees their fresh scent, lemons their zest, and cannabis its distinct, sometimes skunky aroma. In cannabis, terpenes don’t just affect flavor; they can also influence the experience by working together with cannabinoids like THC and CBD—a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect.”
Cannabis-Derived Terpenes
Cannabis-derived terpenes (CDTs) are extracted directly from the cannabis plant itself, usually during processing for live resin or live rosin products. These terpenes perfectly mirror the unique profile of the strain they came from, capturing not just the aroma but the nuanced flavors and synergistic compounds that contribute to the strain’s original effects.
Because they come straight from cannabis, CDTs tend to offer a more authentic “strain-specific” experience. Many consumers say vapes made with cannabis-derived terpenes feel more like smoking the actual flower. However, CDTs are typically more expensive to produce since they require fresh cannabis and careful extraction techniques.
Pros of Cannabis-Derived Terpenes:
- Authentic strain flavors and aromas.
- Potentially stronger entourage effect.
- Preferred by purists seeking a true-to-plant experience.
Cons:
- More expensive.
- Limited availability for certain strains.
Botanical Terpenes
Botanical terpenes are identical or similar molecules extracted from non-cannabis plants like citrus peels, lavender, or pine needles. These terpenes are then blended to recreate the desired flavor and aroma profile of popular cannabis strains.
Because they’re produced in larger volumes and don’t rely on cannabis harvests, botanical terpenes are generally more affordable and consistent. Manufacturers can also experiment with unique flavor profiles not typically found in cannabis, creating vapes with fruity, dessert-like, or exotic tastes.
However, while botanical terpenes can taste great, they don’t always capture the subtle complexity of the original cannabis strain. Some consumers find these vapes less authentic or lacking the full-spectrum effects of products with CDTs.
Pros of Botanical Terpenes:
- More affordable.
- Wider flavor options.
- Consistency in taste batch after batch.
Cons:
- Not derived from cannabis, so flavors may feel artificial to some.
- Less potential for full entourage effect.
Choosing What’s Right for You
If you want a vape that feels close to the original cannabis flower, look for products labeled with cannabis-derived terpenes. If you’re open to exploring fun, bold flavors—or if you’re on a budget—botanical terpene vapes might be perfect for you.
When shopping, don’t hesitate to ask your budtender whether the vape uses CDTs or botanical terpenes. Reputable brands often include this information on the packaging or their websites.
Bottom Line:
Both cannabis-derived and botanical terpenes have their place in vaping, and neither is inherently “better.” It comes down to your personal preference for flavor authenticity, effects, and budget. Understanding the difference will help you choose a vape that matches your desired experience.