Many people turn to energy drinks or caffeine for a quick pick-me-up, but there’s growing interest in plant-based solutions that might offer more natural support. One such option includes terpenes—compounds found in plants that may have various benefits. Recently, terpenes have garnered attention for their potential role in boosting energy and improving focus. While research is still early, some promising findings suggest that certain terpenes could help you feel more alert and productive.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds in many plants, responsible for their unique aromas and flavors. You’ve likely encountered them without even realizing it—whether it's the sharp scent of pine, the refreshing zest of citrus, or the spicy warmth of black pepper. Cannabis plants have over 200 unique terpenes. Plants produce terpenes as part of their defense mechanisms against pests and environmental stressors, but these compounds may also offer benefits when consumed or inhaled by humans.
You might already be familiar with terpenes through aromatherapy or essential oils, which provide relaxing or invigorating scents. Increasingly, terpenes are being used in dietary supplements and wellness products to enhance focus, mood, and energy levels. It's important to note, however, that while initial studies are promising, more research is needed to understand the extent of their potential benefits fully.

Top Terpenes for Energy and Focus
Although terpenes occur in many plants, some are considered particularly beneficial for improving energy and focus. Below are a few notable terpenes that might be worth exploring if you're looking for a natural boost to your daily routine.
Pinene
As the name suggests, pinene is a terpene commonly found in pine trees, rosemary, and basil. Its scent is fresh and sharp, reminiscent of a forest walk. Pinene has been studied for its possible cognitive benefits, particularly in increasing alertness and improving memory retention. Some research also suggests that pinene may help enhance focus, making it a popular choice in essential oils for mental clarity.
While more studies are necessary to confirm these effects, incorporating pinene-rich products like rosemary essential oil into your routine might help if you’re looking for a natural way to stay sharp and focused throughout the day.
Limonene
Limonene is another terpene you may recognize, found in citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and limes. It gives these fruits their bright, uplifting scent and flavor. Limonene is often used in aromatherapy and mood-boosting products due to its potential to reduce stress and uplift mood. Some believe that limonene may also increase energy levels, making it a great option for those times when you need a little mental pick-me-up.
While the research is still developing, limonene’s potential to boost mood and energy makes it an appealing addition to a daily wellness routine, particularly in the form of citrus essential oils or supplements.
Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene, found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon, has a spicy, peppery aroma and may offer mental and physical benefits. It is unique among terpenes because it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood and stress responses. Caryophyllene is thought to help reduce anxiety and stress, which in turn could improve concentration and focus.
For those who often find their focus disrupted by stress or anxiety, caryophyllene might be helpful in promoting a calmer, more centered state of mind. Again, while these effects are still being studied, incorporating caryophyllene-rich foods like black pepper or using essential oils may offer some benefits.
Terpinolene
Found in apples, nutmeg, and tea trees, terpinolene has a fresh, slightly herbal scent. It’s less well-known than other terpenes but might still have valuable energy-boosting properties. Terpinolene is sometimes used in aromatherapy for its mood-boosting and energizing effects. Some believe that terpinolene helps increase mental alertness and physical energy, though more research is needed to back these claims.
Incorporating terpinolene into your wellness routine through essential oils or natural products might offer a refreshing way to enhance energy levels and mood, though individual experiences can vary.
How to Incorporate Terpenes into Your Routine
If you’re curious about trying terpenes to boost your energy and focus, there are a few easy ways to incorporate them into your daily life. Here are some suggestions:
Aromatherapy: One of the most popular ways to experience the benefits of terpenes is through essential oils. Pinene, limonene, and caryophyllene are commonly available in essential oil forms. You can diffuse them in your home, use them in a roller for topical application, or add them to a bath to help uplift your mood and sharpen your focus.
Supplements: Some dietary supplements now contain concentrated terpenes, often marketed for their potential mood-enhancing or focus-boosting properties. When choosing terpene supplements, it’s important to research the company and ensure that the product comes from a high-quality, reputable source.
Diet: You can also get a dose of terpenes through the foods you eat. Incorporating black pepper, citrus fruits, rosemary, and even apples into your meals might help you naturally benefit from these compounds, though the levels of terpenes in food are generally lower than in concentrated oils or supplements.
No matter which method you choose, it’s essential to opt for high-quality products, as terpene concentration and purity can vary widely between different brands and formulations.
If you want to try terpenes, consider starting with essential oils or supplements and see how they work for you. Whether you’re looking to improve your productivity or simply feel more energized throughout the day, these natural compounds may offer a gentle, holistic approach to enhancing your well-being.
(1) comment
Excellent article and I’m shocked (pleasantly surprised) to see this magazine cover such a topic. I’ve been using terpenes (I use Cannanda’s terpene blends) for years with great results for fibromyalgia. Of course my fave is their CB2 oil, and their immune blend called High Ground is a close second…both based on beta-caryophyllene. Check them out at www.cannanda.com
I also used another beta-caryophyllene product called Rephyll but it’s only an ingestible and found the Cannanda products to be more versatile (can inhale, ingest, or use topically). Which ever brand you use, I’m excited to see terpenes getting some press!
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