When you light up cannabis through traditional methods like joints, bongs, or pipes, it typically releases that classic skunky, gassy, earthy scent.

However, weed exhaled from a weed vape? That could smell fruity with herbal, skunky notes.

But there’s much more to cannabis than its skunky reputation. Let’s explore the full spectrum of cannabis scents, delve into the factors that influence these aromas, and discover what really good weed smells like.

Cannabis plants are usually described as smelling skunky, earthy, citrusy, or piney. These scents primarily come from terpenes and volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs).

Terpenes

Terpenes are produced by cannabis plant trichomes alongside THC and CBD, and play a key role in defining weed’s smell, taste, and effects. They’re highly volatile and release their fragrance easily into the air, which our nose can easily pick up.

Some common terpenes you might find on products at your local dispensary include:

• Limonene – Citrusy, lemon-like scent
• β-Myrcene – Earthy, musky, or herbal aroma
• α-Pinene – Pine-like scent
• Linalool – Floral, lavender-like fragrance
• Caryophyllene – Spicy, peppery aroma like black pepper

Why Does Weed Smell Like Skunk? Thank VSCs

The skunky scent of cannabis mainly comes from VSCs. Specifically, the compound 3-methyl-2-butene-1-thiol (VSC3) is often responsible. When this compound shows up in high concentrations, it gives cannabis that unmistakably strong skunk-like smell.

The terpene myrcene has also been linked to contributing to the more musky notes one associates with a skunky smell.

Plant Growth Conditions and Harvest Age

Optimal soil quality, temperature, humidity, and light exposure during growth can largely enhance terpene development, enriching the plant’s aroma. And since terpenes reach their peak potency just before the plant achieves full maturity, harvesting at this precise moment can make weed smell exceptionally potent.

High-quality cannabis should have a distinctly pungent smell that strikes you the moment you open the container. This aroma can vary widely depending on the strain and the terpenes present, but it should generally smell fresh.

Here are some common scents associated with good weed:

• Earthy: Many top-shelf strains have a rich, deep smell reminiscent of damp soil, indicative of the presence of the terpene myrcene.

• Citrus: Strains with a sharp, refreshing citrus aroma are typically rich in limonene, which is also associated with uplifting effects.

• Pine: A crisp, fresh pine scent is often a sign of pinene, which is known for its potential to enhance alertness and memory.

• Sweet: Some strains emit a sweet, almost fruity scent, which can be linked to terpenes like caryophyllene and linalool, known for their stress-relieving properties.

• Skunky: The classic cannabis smell that’s sharply pungent and slightly sour comes from high concentrations of myrcene, often found in the most potent indica strains.