It's all about the flavor
Terpenes are natural chemicals created by plants for defense against pests, attracting pollinators, and a multitude of other purposes. They are largely responsible for the aromas and flavors of plant based products. In cannabis, the majority of terpenes are produced within the glandular trichomes on the surface of mature female flowers. In combination with cannabinoids like THC, the specific mix of terpenes (terpene profile) which any given strain contains, help drive that strain's unique flavor and ultimately its psychoactive effects.
There are thousands of chemical compounds in cannabis flower, many not yet fully understood. It takes all of these chemicals coming together to form the full entourage effect which you feel when smoking the flower. Cannabinoids and terpenes are both very important, but ultimately you have to light one up and taste for yourself to understand a strain's full potential.
