Understanding The Benefits Of Terpinolene

Terpinolene is a terpene found in the cannabis plant. This specific terpene produces a piney and citrusy fragrance, and may even have therapeutic potential. Furthermore, terpinolene can be found in a variety of natural plants and commercial products. Keep reading to find out more about this unique terpene!

WHAT ARE TERPENES?

Terpenes are volatile secondary plant products that naturally appear in plants, animals, and even humans. In cannabis, they are secreted by the same gland responsible for producing cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Terpenes and THC actually share a biochemical precursor called geranyl pyrophosphate (also known as geranyl diphosphate). It is believed that terpenes were initially developed as a way to lure pollinating insects and protect against predatory ones.

Terpenes are found in flowers, plants, vegetables, herbs, and spices. The US Food And Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed terpenes safe to consume. Moreover, they are used extensively in aromatherapy and perfumery.

Alongside terpenes also exist terpenoids. These molecules are nearly identical, with the primary difference being that terpenes are pure hydrocarbons, whereas terpenoids are denatured by oxidation.

Terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids all work together to produce a type of chemical synergy called the "entourage effect". When consumed simultaneously, the effects of terpenes and cannabinoids are augmented, producing a more enhanced outcome than they would in isolation.

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WHY DO TERPENES MATTER?

There are over 100 different terpenes in the cannabis plant, contributing a vast array of aromas and flavours. However, research shows that terpenes do more than just add flavour. Some terpenes have been found to be psychoactive, and to contribute to the overall effects produced by consuming the plant. They can induce a range of effects including anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and sedative outcomes.

WHAT IS TERPINOLENE?

Terpinolene, also known as δ-terpinene, is a fragrant terpene found primarily in sativa strains. These include strains such as Lemon Sour Diesel and Royal Jack, as well as several other Jack Herer derivatives. Specifically, terpinolene is responsible for the piney, woody tones that characterise certain strains. Oftentimes, these are accompanied by fruity, citrusy, and herbal tones as well.

Terpinolene has numerous applications out in the world. For starters, it contributes to the natural fragrances of tea tree, lilac, apple, rosemary, and sage. It is also used as an aromatic agent in soaps, perfumes, lotions, and even insect repellents. Moreover, this terpene is currently being studied for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.

WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF TERPINOLENE?

Researchers have discovered several potential uses for terpinolene. A study from 2013 looked at the sedative effects of terpinolene on lab mice. Researchers concluded that its sedative properties may make terpinolene a potential remedy for insomnia, and perhaps even anxiety.

Another study from 2005 found that terpinolene may have antioxidant properties and may also prevent low-density lipoprotein oxidation (LDL). This means that terpinolene may be useful in preventing bad cholesterol and, consequently, heart disease. Moreover, a study from 2012 shows that terpinolene may inhibit cell proliferation in certain types of cancers. Most recently, researchers have begun looking at the antimicrobial and antibacterial properties of certain plants containing terpinolene.

USING TERPINOLENE

Apart from the uses previously mentioned, terpinolene is also used as a flavouring and fragrance. Simply adding one small drop of concentrated terpinolene can change the flavour profile of foods, liquids, and smokable herbs.

Want to get your hands on some terpinolene? Check out the Cali Terpenes line of 100% pure terpenes now available through Zamnesia. These concentrated oils contain a mix of extracted terpenes, including terpinolene. Each oil is specially crafted to resemble the fragrance of different cannabis strains, including Jamaican Dream (piney, citrusy, coffee tones), Gorilla Glue (sour, pine, diesel tones), and Furious Candy (sweet, fruity, earthy tones).

Adam Parsons

Professional cannabis journalist, copywriter, and author Adam Parsons is a long-time staff member of Zamnesia. Tasked with covering a wide range of topics from CBD to psychedelics and everything in between, Adam creates blog posts, guides, and explores an ever-growing range of products.

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