Terpinolene

What is terpinolene and what does it do in cannabis? Continue reading to learn more about this interesting cannabinoid. In cannabis, numerous distinct chemicals work together to create the desired effects. THC and CBD are just two of them. Terpenes are also an important component.

Terpenes are aromatic chemicals that give cannabis its distinguishing fragrance. Terpenes and cannabinoids have been shown to interact in a number of ways, one of which is known as the entourage effect.

We’ll look at one of the lesser-known cannabis terpenes, terpinolene, in this post. Here’s everything you need to know about it.

What Is Terpinolene?

Terpenes are the chemical compounds present in cannabis that give it its particular flavor and scent. They also impact the plant’s effects and may distinguish between a strain that is energizing or sedating. Terpenes also appear to have health advantages.

Terpinolene is a terpene found in cannabis. Terpinolene, unlike other terpenes such as myrcene and beta-caryophyllene, has a relatively low level of presence in the plant. Even so, it contains several potentially beneficial components that merit further study.

Terpinolene is a monoterpene, which implies it’s the least complex terpene. It has a chemical formula of C₁₀H₁₆ and is liquid at normal temperatures. It also has a sweet, pine-like scent and an orange flavor with a hint of honey.

Some common uses of terpinolene include:

• Flavoring food and beverages
• Personal care products
• Air fresheners
• Manufacturing plastics and resins

Several medical studies have been conducted in recent years to examine the therapeutic potential of this terpene. What are the benefits of terpinolene?

Benefits of Terpinolene

Terpineolene has not been the focus of as many investigations as other cannabis terpenes. Although there have been a few previous studies, much still needs to be learnt.

It’s also worth noting that the majority of contemporary research is based on animal or cell cultures studies. As a result, little is known about how the chemical affects human health.

But, in addition to being a sedative and muscle relaxant, it is also considered to have some benefits:

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Terpinolene, like other terpenes, has anti-inflammatory effects. In 2016, the Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research conducted a study on terpinolene’s effects. It evaluated the effect of terpinolene combined with diclofenac, an often used anti-inflammatory drug

In a study of rats with hind paw inflammation and discomfort, researchers gave low doses of both drugs to rodents. The team determined that the combination reduced edema as well as pain in the rats. This finding has the potential to influence clinical practice.

The anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac, a component of the chemical warfare agent sarin, has been linked to the development of cancer in mice. Terpinolene may assist decrease some of diclofenac’s most characteristic adverse effects by enhancing its effectiveness at low dosages. For example, stomach issues that individuals on long-term anti-inflammatory therapy are prone to develop might be lessened.

According to the study’s authors, “these findings suggest that a pharmacological alternative may be possible in clinical practice by avoiding anticipated negative effects of conventional medicines.”

Antioxidant Effects

Another well-known benefit of cannabis terpenes is their antioxidant abilities, and terpinolene is no exception.

In 2015, researchers investigated the effects of terpinolene on blood from five healthy human volunteers in Cytotechnology. They discovered that low doses have antioxidant activity without being harmful to lymphocytes (white blood cells).

Terpinolene inhibits LDL cholesterol from being oxidized, according to a 2005 research in Phytomedicine. This is a mechanism that can cause atherosclerosis and heart disease. As a result, terpinolene may have cardioprotective effects.

Sedative Effects

Inhaled terpinolene has sedative effects on mice, according to the Journal of Natural Medicine. It’s unknown whether it has the same effect on people as it does on animals, but it appears to contribute to cannabis strains’ sedative qualities.

Terpinolene Side Effects

Terpinolene has harmful effects on certain insect species, such as maize weevils, a common pest. It is also poisonous to rabbits in high dosages and was found in tests to irritate laboratory animal skin.

Terpinolene is neither entirely psychoactive nor extremely harmful. Volunteers who had been sitting in the same room as terpinolene and then were exposed to it did not experience any skin irritation or sensitivity. Additionally, because cannabis contains low amounts of terpinolene, it’s highly improbable that this chemical would cause any issues.

High Terpinolene Cannabis Strains

Terpinolene is a minor component of the cannabis plant. Terpinolene, on the other hand, is not as widespread as many different cannabis terpenes. There are a few, nevertheless. The following are some of the most terpinolene-rich cannabis strains:

Strawberry Lemonade

Strawberry Lemonade is a sativa-dominant strain that took first place in the 2015 High Times Denver Cannabis Cup as “Best Sativa Concentrate.” Strawberry Lemonade follows form, with tangy scents and tastes combined with a heady start and complementary body effects. Strawberry Lemonade may be consumed throughout the day, but don’t schedule anything too far ahead because this strain can be whimsical and deeply relaxing.

Golden Pineapple

The Golden Pineapple is a 50/50 sativa to indica strain with an even split of sativa and indica. It has a pleasant pineapple scent and flavor, although it has a large 22% THC content, which may be too potent for first-timers.

Consumers claim that this strain helps with stress, tiredness, and hunger. Terpinolene content is 0.95 percent.

Dutch Treat

The Dutch Treat is a high-THC hybrid (80%) with a sweet fragrance and a touch of pine. Anxiety and depression alleviation, sleep aid, and chronic pain mitigation are all possible medical uses for this strain. Terpinolene makes up roughly 0.71% of the mix.

XJ-13

The XJ-13 is a well-balanced hybrid with a THC concentration of around 22 percent. It has an earthy, woody fragrance with notes of citrus beneath. The XJ-13 is a fast-hitting high that users claim can help with stress, sadness, and tiredness. Its terpinolene content is about 0.66 percent

Jack Herer

Jack Herer is a legendary cannabis strain, having a 55 percent sativa component and around 21% THC. This traditional variety has citrus and pine undertones, as well as skunky overtones.

This strain is helpful for treating anxiety, sadness, and chronic pain in cannabis users. The terpinolene content is about 0.42 percent.

Ghost Train Haze

Ghost Train Haze has a THC concentration of 28 percent, making it one of the most potent strains available! It’s a Sativa-dominant strain (80%) with up to 28% THC! The sweet, citrusy scent of this product is popular among consumers.

For individuals who can tolerate its strong high, Ghost Train Haze may assist with muscular spasms and cramps. Terpinolene is found in about 0.28 percent of Ghost Train Haze.

Other Sources of Terpinolene (Not Cannabis)

Terpinolene can also be found in a variety of plants, spices, and veggies outside of cannabis. The following are some good sources of terpinolene:

• Sage
• Rosemary
• Mint
• Allspice
• Nutmeg
• Star anise
• Juniper
• Citrus fruit
• Parsnips
• Carrots
• Celery

Terpinolene is also present in a range of trees. It can be found in pine, fir, and tea tree essential oils.

Final Thoughts on Terpinolene

Terpinolene is a lesser-known cannabis terpene that has certain benefits, although not as many as other types. It can also help to decrease inflammation and combat oxidative damage, among other things.

Terpenes are a critical element of cannabis therapy, and we’re discovering new information about them on a regular basis. Despite the fact that cannabinoid research has overshadowed them for years, researchers are now becoming more aware of terpenes’ abilities. As a result, we anticipate additional study on terpinolene and its advantages in the near future.