Alpha Terpinene

α-Terpinene – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide α-Terpinene alpha-Terpinene pronounced: AL-fuh ter-PIN-een A woody, citrus terpene with a medicinal edge. Best known as a strong natural antioxidant. Monoterpene Boiling point: 174°C Terpene type Monoterpene Boiling point 174°C Primary aroma Woody Key effect Antioxidant Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of α-Terpinene is described as: WoodyCitrusMedicinalHerbalFresh Found naturally in: Marjoram, cumin, tea tree, allspice, juniper, coriander Effects Linked Effects AntioxidantAnti-microbialAnti-fungal These effects are based on early-stage research in animals and cells. They are not proven in humans. Do not change your treatment based on this information. About What is α-Terpinene? Alpha-terpinene is a terpene that smells woody and citrusy with a slightly sharp, medicinal note. It is one of the main parts of tea tree oil and gives marjoram and cumin some of their warm, herby smell. It is a light monoterpene and a close cousin of gamma-terpinene. The two often appear together in the same plants. Effects in detail What the Research Says Alpha-terpinene is one of the strongest plant antioxidants found in the laboratory. It is very good at mopping up free radicals, the harmful particles that can damage cells (Nuutinen, 2018). It is also studied for fighting germs and fungus. Because it reacts so readily with oxygen, it can change over time once a plant oil is opened. This is normal, and it is why fresh oils smell brightest. Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life You meet alpha-terpinene most strongly in tea tree oil, which is used in many skincare products. It is also in the herb marjoram, the spice cumin, in allspice, and in juniper. Its clean, slightly medicinal smell means it turns up in soaps, mouthwashes and household cleaners. Research Key Studies Nuutinen (2018) reviewed the laboratory evidence on alpha-terpinene, highlighting its powerful antioxidant activity and its germ-fighting and fungus-fighting effects in cell tests. Its chemistry is recorded in public databases (National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2025). The human evidence is still at an early stage. PreviousΔ-3-Carene NextAlpha-Pinene Back to full Terpenes Guide Important: The information on this page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Terpene research is still in its early stages. Many studies have been done in animals, not yet in people. Always speak to your doctor before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Nuutinen, T. (2018) ‘Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus’, European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 157, pp. 198-228. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.07.076. Booth, J.K. and Bohlmann, J. (2019) ‘Terpenes in Cannabis sativa: from plant genome to humans’, Plant Science, 284, pp. 67-72. doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2019.03.022. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 11 June 2026). Russo, E.B. (2011) ‘Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), pp. 1344-1364. doi: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x. Cicada Jersey (2020) Terpene Wheel. Available at: https://cicada.je/terpene-wheel/ (Accessed: 11 June 2026).

Delta 3 Carene

Δ-3-Carene – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide Δ-3-Carene Delta-3-Carene, 3-Carene pronounced: KAIR-een A sweet, piney, citrus scent from pine and cedar trees. Studied for calming and for excess fluid. Monoterpene Boiling point: 169°C Terpene type Monoterpene Boiling point 169°C Primary aroma Piney Key effect Calming Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of Δ-3-Carene is described as: PineySweetCitrusCedarEarthy Found naturally in: Pine, cedar, rosemary, basil, bell pepper, cypress Effects Linked Effects CalmingBone supportDries excess fluid These effects are based on early-stage research in animals and cells. They are not proven in humans. Do not change your treatment based on this information. About What is Δ-3-Carene? Delta-3-carene is a terpene with a sweet, piney smell and a hint of citrus and damp earth. It is found in pine and cedar trees, in rosemary and basil, and even in bell peppers. It is a light monoterpene, so its fresh, resinous scent lifts off quickly. In cannabis it adds to that classic forest-like smell that many people enjoy. Effects in detail What the Research Says In animal studies, delta-3-carene has shown a calming, sedative-like quality (Nuutinen, 2018). Researchers have also explored whether it may help dry up extra fluid in the body, and some early work has looked at its possible role in bone health. These are early laboratory findings. One thing to note is that, in large amounts, carene can be drying and may irritate the eyes or throat, which is why balance matters. Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life You will find delta-3-carene in pine and cedar forests, in fresh rosemary and basil, in cypress, and in sweet bell peppers. Pine and cedarwood essential oils are rich in it. Its piney, woody smell makes it popular in cleaning products and air fresheners that aim for a fresh-forest scent. Research Key Studies The review by Nuutinen (2018) summarised the laboratory evidence on delta-3-carene, including its calming effect in animal tests and early interest in bone health. Its chemical make-up is listed in public databases (National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2025). As with other terpenes, careful human research is still needed. PreviousLimonene Nextα-Terpinene Back to full Terpenes Guide Important: The information on this page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Terpene research is still in its early stages. Many studies have been done in animals, not yet in people. Always speak to your doctor before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Nuutinen, T. (2018) ‘Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus’, European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 157, pp. 198-228. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.07.076. Booth, J.K. and Bohlmann, J. (2019) ‘Terpenes in Cannabis sativa: from plant genome to humans’, Plant Science, 284, pp. 67-72. doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2019.03.022. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 11 June 2026). Russo, E.B. (2011) ‘Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), pp. 1344-1364. doi: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x. Cicada Jersey (2020) Terpene Wheel. Available at: https://cicada.je/terpene-wheel/ (Accessed: 11 June 2026).

Valencene

Valencene – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide Valencene (+)-Valencene pronounced: VAL-en-seen Smells like sweet Valencia oranges. A larger terpene studied for easing swelling and protecting skin. Sesquiterpene Boiling point: 274°C Terpene type Sesquiterpene Boiling point 274°C Primary aroma Citrus Key effect Anti-inflammatory Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of Valencene is described as: CitrusSweetOrangeFruityFresh Found naturally in: Valencia oranges, grapefruit and other citrus fruit Effects Linked Effects Anti-inflammatorySkin protectionInsect repellent These effects are based on early-stage research in animals and cells. They are not proven in humans. Do not change your treatment based on this information. About What is Valencene? Valencene is named after the Valencia orange, the fruit it was first found in. It carries a sweet, juicy citrus smell and is the terpene behind much of the lovely aroma of fresh oranges and grapefruit. Unlike the lighter citrus terpenes, valencene is a sesquiterpene, which means it is a larger and heavier molecule. Its boiling point at normal pressure is high, around 274 degrees, although it is often measured at about 123 degrees under reduced pressure in the laboratory (National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2025). Effects in detail What the Research Says Early research has looked at valencene as an anti-inflammatory, meaning it may help calm swelling, and as a substance that could help protect skin from sun damage in laboratory tests (Nuutinen, 2018). It is also studied as a natural insect repellent. These uses are promising but early. Most of the evidence comes from cell and animal studies rather than trials in people. Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life You meet valencene every time you peel a sweet orange or a grapefruit. It is concentrated in the oil of the peel, which is why citrus zest smells so strong and sweet. It is also used in the food and drink industry to add a natural orange flavour, and in some skincare products. Research Key Studies Reviews of plant and cannabis terpenes, including Nuutinen (2018), describe valencene mainly for its anti-inflammatory and skin-protecting activity seen in laboratory work. Its chemistry, including the way its boiling point changes with pressure, is recorded in public databases (National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2025). Human evidence is still limited. Previousγ-Terpinene NextLimonene Back to full Terpenes Guide Important: The information on this page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Terpene research is still in its early stages. Many studies have been done in animals, not yet in people. Always speak to your doctor before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Nuutinen, T. (2018) ‘Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus’, European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 157, pp. 198-228. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.07.076. Booth, J.K. and Bohlmann, J. (2019) ‘Terpenes in Cannabis sativa: from plant genome to humans’, Plant Science, 284, pp. 67-72. doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2019.03.022. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 11 June 2026). Russo, E.B. (2011) ‘Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), pp. 1344-1364. doi: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x. Cicada Jersey (2020) Terpene Wheel. Available at: https://cicada.je/terpene-wheel/ (Accessed: 11 June 2026).

Gamma Terpinene

γ-Terpinene – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide γ-Terpinene gamma-Terpinene pronounced: GAM-uh ter-PIN-een A woody citrus terpene found in lemon and lime peel. Studied as a natural antioxidant. Monoterpene Boiling point: 183°C Terpene type Monoterpene Boiling point 183°C Primary aroma Citrus Key effect Antioxidant Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of γ-Terpinene is described as: WoodyCitrusFreshLemonHerbal Found naturally in: Lemon and lime peel, cumin, marjoram, tea tree, allspice Effects Linked Effects AntioxidantHeart supportAnti-fungal These effects are based on early-stage research in animals and cells. They are not proven in humans. Do not change your treatment based on this information. About What is γ-Terpinene? Gamma-terpinene is a terpene that smells woody and citrusy at the same time. It is a big part of the smell of lemon and lime peel, and it helps give cumin and marjoram their warm, herby aroma. It is a light monoterpene, so it lifts off the plant easily and adds a fresh top note to the overall smell of cannabis when it is present. Effects in detail What the Research Says The most studied feature of gamma-terpinene is its antioxidant activity. In laboratory tests it can mop up harmful particles called free radicals, which may help protect cells (Nuutinen, 2018). Some animal studies have also looked at whether it may help keep blood fats such as cholesterol in a healthier range. It has been studied as an anti-fungal too. As always, these are early findings from the laboratory, not proof of benefit in people. Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life Gamma-terpinene is easy to meet in everyday life. It is in the peel of lemons and limes, in the spice cumin, in the herb marjoram, and in tea tree oil. Grating a fresh lemon releases a burst of it. Because it smells fresh and citrusy, it is also used to add a clean note to soaps and household cleaners. Research Key Studies The broad review by Nuutinen (2018) collected the laboratory evidence on gamma-terpinene, highlighting its antioxidant activity and possible effects on blood fats seen in animal studies. Its chemical details are recorded in public databases (National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2025). Strong human trials have not yet been done. PreviousGeranyl-Acetate NextValencene Back to full Terpenes Guide Important: The information on this page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Terpene research is still in its early stages. Many studies have been done in animals, not yet in people. Always speak to your doctor before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Nuutinen, T. (2018) ‘Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus’, European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 157, pp. 198-228. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.07.076. Booth, J.K. and Bohlmann, J. (2019) ‘Terpenes in Cannabis sativa: from plant genome to humans’, Plant Science, 284, pp. 67-72. doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2019.03.022. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 11 June 2026). Russo, E.B. (2011) ‘Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), pp. 1344-1364. doi: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x. Cicada Jersey (2020) Terpene Wheel. Available at: https://cicada.je/terpene-wheel/ (Accessed: 11 June 2026).

Geranyl-Acetate

Geranyl-Acetate – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide Geranyl-Acetate Geranyl ethanoate pronounced: JER-uh-nil ASS-uh-tate A soft, sweet flower scent with a fruity twist. The smell behind many roses and geraniums. Monoterpene ester Boiling point: 245°C Terpene type Monoterpene ester Boiling point 245°C Primary aroma Floral Key effect Antioxidant Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of Geranyl-Acetate is described as: FloralSweetFruityRoseSoft Found naturally in: Geraniums, lemongrass, coriander, carrots, roses, citronella Effects Linked Effects Protects cellsCalmingSkin care These effects are based on early-stage research in animals and cells. They are not proven in humans. Do not change your treatment based on this information. About What is Geranyl-Acetate? Geranyl-acetate is a sweet, flowery terpene with a gentle fruity edge. It is what gives geraniums and many roses their soft, pretty smell. It belongs to a group called esters, which are terpenes joined to a small acid, and esters often smell especially sweet and fruity. It has a high boiling point for a light terpene, so it lingers and does not fade as fast as sharper smells like lemon. This is one reason perfume makers like it so much. Effects in detail What the Research Says Scientists have mostly studied geranyl-acetate as an antioxidant, a substance that may help protect the body’s cells from a kind of damage called oxidative stress (Nuutinen, 2018). Some early work also looks at whether it has a gentle calming quality. There is not yet strong human research on geranyl-acetate by itself. Most of what we know comes from laboratory tests and from its long, safe history of use in food flavouring and perfume. Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life You will find geranyl-acetate in geranium and rose oils, in lemongrass and citronella, and in the leaves of coriander. It is even part of the smell of carrots. If you have used a rose-scented soap or a citronella candle, you have met it. It is approved as a food flavouring and is widely used to add a sweet, floral note to drinks, sweets and cosmetics. Research Key Studies Laboratory reviews of cannabis and plant terpenes, including the broad review by Nuutinen (2018), describe geranyl-acetate mainly for its antioxidant activity seen in cell tests. Its chemical make-up, including its formula and boiling point, is listed in public databases (National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2025). Human studies are still needed to confirm any health effects. PreviousOcimene Nextγ-Terpinene Back to full Terpenes Guide Important: The information on this page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Terpene research is still in its early stages. Many studies have been done in animals, not yet in people. Always speak to your doctor before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Nuutinen, T. (2018) ‘Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus’, European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 157, pp. 198-228. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.07.076. Booth, J.K. and Bohlmann, J. (2019) ‘Terpenes in Cannabis sativa: from plant genome to humans’, Plant Science, 284, pp. 67-72. doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2019.03.022. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 11 June 2026). Russo, E.B. (2011) ‘Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), pp. 1344-1364. doi: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x. Cicada Jersey (2020) Terpene Wheel. Available at: https://cicada.je/terpene-wheel/ (Accessed: 11 June 2026).

Alpha Phellandrene

α-Phellandrene – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide α-Phellandrene alpha-Phellandrene pronounced: fel-AN-dreen A bright, peppery terpene with a cool, minty edge. Found in dill, fennel and mint. Monoterpene Boiling point: 171°C Terpene type Monoterpene Boiling point 171°C Primary aroma Minty Key effect Pain relief Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of α-Phellandrene is described as: CitrusPepperyWoodyMintyFresh Found naturally in: Dill, fennel, black pepper, mint, eucalyptus, ginger grass Effects Linked Effects Eases painLifts moodAnti-inflammatory These effects are based on early-stage research in animals and cells. They are not proven in humans. Do not change your treatment based on this information. About What is α-Phellandrene? Alpha-phellandrene is a small, light terpene that gives some plants a sharp, peppery smell with a cool minty lift. It is one of the terpenes that helps make dill and fennel smell the way they do. Cannabis usually only contains it in small amounts, but it adds a fresh, spicy note to the overall aroma. Because it is a small monoterpene molecule, alpha-phellandrene evaporates quickly at room temperature (Booth and Bohlmann, 2019). That is why you can smell it straight away when you crush a fresh dill or fennel frond. Effects in detail What the Research Says Early laboratory research has looked at whether alpha-phellandrene can ease pain. Studies in animals suggest it may lower how strongly pain signals are felt, and may also help lift low mood (Nuutinen, 2018). These findings are interesting but very early, and they have not been tested properly in people. Like other terpenes, alpha-phellandrene is also being studied for the entourage effect, the idea that terpenes and cannabinoids may work better together than alone (Russo, 2011). Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life You meet alpha-phellandrene most often in the kitchen. It is part of the smell of fresh dill, fennel seeds, and black pepper, and it appears in some mint and ginger plants. A few drops of dill or fennel essential oil carry a strong dose of it. It is also used in small amounts in perfumes and cleaning products because of its fresh, slightly citrus smell. Research Key Studies A 2018 review by Nuutinen gathered together the laboratory studies on terpenes found in cannabis and hops, including alpha-phellandrene, and noted possible pain-easing and mood-lifting effects seen in animal tests. Chemistry details, such as its boiling point and molecular shape, are recorded in public science databases (National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2025). As with all terpenes, the human evidence is still being gathered. PreviousTerpinolene NextOcimene Back to full Terpenes Guide Important: The information on this page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Terpene research is still in its early stages. Many studies have been done in animals, not yet in people. Always speak to your doctor before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Nuutinen, T. (2018) ‘Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus’, European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 157, pp. 198-228. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.07.076. Booth, J.K. and Bohlmann, J. (2019) ‘Terpenes in Cannabis sativa: from plant genome to humans’, Plant Science, 284, pp. 67-72. doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2019.03.022. Russo, E.B. (2011) ‘Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), pp. 1344-1364. doi: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 11 June 2026). Cicada Jersey (2020) Terpene Wheel. Available at: https://cicada.je/terpene-wheel/ (Accessed: 11 June 2026).

MedCan Project: Seeing Stigma Research | PatientsCann UK

Researchers at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) want to hear from people in the UK who have a legal prescription for medical cannabis. By taking part, you can help show the world what life is really like as a prescribed patient.

Camphene

Camphene – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide Camphene 2,2-Dimethyl-3-methylenebicyclo[2.2.1]heptane pronounced: KAM-feen Smells like a damp fir forest. May support healthy cholesterol levels. Monoterpene Boiling point: 159°C Terpene type Monoterpene Boiling point 159°C Primary aroma Damp Earth Key effect Anti-inflammatory Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of camphene is described as: Damp EarthFir NeedlesCamphorForest Floor Found naturally in: Cypress, rosemary, ginger, nutmeg, valerian, sage Effects Linked Effects Anti-inflammatoryPain reliefAntioxidantCardiovascular These effects are based on early-stage research in animals and cells. They are not proven in humans. Do not change your treatment based on this information. About What is Camphene? Camphene has a distinctive, damp, earthy aroma with strong fir tree and camphor notes. If you have ever walked through a coniferous forest after rain and noticed that sharp, resinous, almost medicinal smell, camphene is a significant part of it. It is also the compound that gives old-fashioned camphor mothballs their smell. In cannabis, camphene is usually a minor terpene but contributes to the overall earthy, woody character of certain strains. It is a bicyclic monoterpene, meaning its carbon ring structure is folded, which gives it a more complex and persistent smell than simpler linear terpenes (Booth and Bohlmann, 2019). Effects in detail What the Research Says Camphene has a surprisingly diverse preclinical evidence base. Nuutinen (2018) reviewed studies suggesting it has antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Perhaps most unusually among terpenes, there is also early evidence from animal studies that camphene may reduce blood triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. If confirmed in human trials, this cardiovascular effect would make camphene unique among the 12 terpenes profiled here. However, these are very early-stage findings and cannot be interpreted as evidence that cannabis products will improve cardiovascular health. Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life Rosemary contains camphene alongside pinene and other terpenes, contributing to its sharp, medicinal character. Ginger and nutmeg both contain camphene, adding to their warm, slightly medicinal warmth. Valerian root, widely sold as a sleep supplement, contains camphene as one of several active aromatic compounds. This may partly explain why valerian is associated with relaxation, though its main sedative compounds are different. Cypress essential oil is one of the richest non-cannabis sources. Research Key Studies Nuutinen (2018) reviewed the available evidence and noted camphene’s potential as an antilipidaemic agent based on animal studies, alongside its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The review flagged this as an area warranting further investigation in human subjects. LaVigne et al. (2021) found that camphene, alongside other cannabis terpenes, can modulate cannabinoid receptor activity, placing it within the entourage effect framework. Booth and Bohlmann (2019) noted that camphene’s presence in a cannabis terpene profile is often associated with strains grown in cooler climates, where its biosynthesis is favoured. Previous Alpha-Bisabolol Next Linalool Back to full Terpenes Guide Important: The information on this page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Terpene research is still in its early stages. Many studies have been done in animals, not yet in people. Always speak to your doctor before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Booth, J.K. and Bohlmann, J. (2019) ‘Terpenes in Cannabis sativa: from plant genome to humans’, Plant Science, 284, pp. 67-72. doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2019.03.022. LaVigne, J.E. et al. (2021) ‘Cannabis sativa terpenes are cannabimimetic and selectively enhance cannabinoid activity’, Scientific Reports, 11(1), 8232. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-87740-8. Nuutinen, T. (2018) ‘Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus’, European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 157, pp. 198-228. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.07.076.

Guaiol

Guaiol – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide Guaiol Champacol pronounced: GWHY-ol A rare woody terpene from guaiacum wood. Highest boiling point of the 12. Sesquiterpene Boiling point: 288°C Terpene type Sesquiterpene Boiling point 288°C Primary aroma Woody Pine Key effect Anti-inflammatory Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of guaiol is described as: Woody PineCypressBalsamic EarthSandalwood Found naturally in: Guaiacum wood, cypress trees, lilac, pine Effects Linked Effects Anti-inflammatoryPain reliefAntibacterialAntioxidant These effects are based on early-stage research in animals and cells. They are not proven in humans. Do not change your treatment based on this information. About What is Guaiol? Guaiol is a rare sesquiterpene alcohol with a deep, piney, and slightly rosy aroma reminiscent of sandalwood and cypress. It has the highest boiling point of the 12 terpenes covered here at 288 degrees Celsius, which means it evaporates last of all and contributes most strongly to the long-lasting woody base note of a strain. It takes its name from Guaiacum, a dense tropical hardwood tree from the Caribbean. Traditional medicine in that region has used guaiacum resin for centuries for conditions including arthritis. Guaiol is thought to be one of the active compounds responsible for these traditional uses (Nuutinen, 2018). Effects in detail What the Research Says Guaiol has been studied primarily for anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Its high boiling point means it survives the heating process better than most other terpenes, which may make it particularly relevant for vaped or heated cannabis products where lower-boiling terpenes are lost. Nuutinen (2018) reviewed preclinical evidence for guaiol’s antimicrobial and insecticidal activity. It also appeared in the LaVigne et al. (2021) study as one of the sesquiterpenes capable of modulating cannabinoid receptor activity, contributing to the entourage effect. Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life Guaiol is less common in everyday food than most other terpenes. It is found primarily in wood resins, cypress essential oil, and lilac. Pine needles contain a small amount. If you have ever smelled the inside of a freshly sawn hardwood log, the warm, resinous component of that smell likely contains guaiol. Some high-end perfumes use cypress essential oil as a base note, and guaiol is part of what gives cypress its distinctive, long-lasting woody character. It is also used in some traditional incense formulations. Research Key Studies Nuutinen (2018) identified guaiol as having notable antibacterial properties in vitro, along with antioxidant activity. The review noted that guaiol’s high boiling point makes it a candidate for study in heated cannabis preparations where other terpenes would already have evaporated. LaVigne et al. (2021) included guaiol among the sesquiterpenes found to selectively enhance cannabinoid activity. This confirms that even relatively minor terpenes in cannabis can play a pharmacologically meaningful role in the overall profile of a product. Previous Humulene Next Eudesmol Back to full Terpenes Guide Important: The information on this page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Terpene research is still in its early stages. Many studies have been done in animals, not yet in people. Always speak to your doctor before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References LaVigne, J.E. et al. (2021) ‘Cannabis sativa terpenes are cannabimimetic and selectively enhance cannabinoid activity’, Scientific Reports, 11(1), 8232. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-87740-8. Nuutinen, T. (2018) ‘Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus’, European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 157, pp. 198-228. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.07.076.

Trans-Nerolidol

Trans-Nerolidol – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide Trans-Nerolidol Peruviol, Penetrol pronounced: tranz neh-ROL-ih-dol A soft, woody-floral terpene. Found in jasmine and tea tree. Sesquiterpene Boiling point: 122°C Terpene type Sesquiterpene Boiling point 122°C Primary aroma Woody Key effect Sleep support Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of trans-nerolidol is described as: WoodyRose-floralEarthy barkJasmineWaxy Found naturally in: Jasmine, tea tree, neroli, lemongrass, ginger Effects Linked Effects Sleep supportRelaxingCalmAntimicrobial These effects are based on early-stage research in animals and cells. They are not proven in humans. Do not change your treatment based on this information. About What is Trans-Nerolidol? Trans-nerolidol has a complex, multi-layered scent that combines the woody warmth of bark with a soft, rose-like floral quality and a hint of jasmine. It is less common in cannabis than myrcene or linalool, but strains that contain it often have a particularly smooth, rounded aroma. It is found in jasmine, neroli (bitter orange blossom), and tea tree, and is used in the fragrance industry as a fixative: a compound that helps other scents last longer. In cannabis, it appears most often alongside myrcene and linalool in strains with a heavy, sedating character (Booth and Bohlmann, 2019). Effects in detail What the Research Says Nerolidol is most associated with sedative and sleep-supporting effects. It commonly appears in cannabis strains alongside myrcene and linalool, forming what some researchers describe as a sedating terpene triad. Nuutinen (2018) reviewed preclinical evidence for its sleep-promoting and anxiolytic properties. It also has notable antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties in laboratory studies. Research has found it effective against certain fungi and even against the malaria parasite in cell studies, though these are very early-stage findings with no clinical application at this time. LaVigne et al. (2021) confirmed cannabinoid receptor modulation. Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life Jasmine tea and jasmine-scented products are the easiest way to encounter nerolidol in everyday life. The deep, slightly waxy floral quality of jasmine is partly due to this terpene. Ginger root also contains nerolidol alongside other aromatic compounds. Tea tree oil contains nerolidol as a minor but important component. Its presence in tea tree alongside other terpenes like terpinene contributes to the oil’s broad antimicrobial activity. Neroli essential oil, derived from bitter orange blossom, is named in part because nerolidol was first isolated from it. Research Key Studies Nuutinen (2018) reviewed nerolidol’s pharmacological profile, highlighting evidence for sedative, antiparasitic, antifungal, and antioxidant effects across multiple preclinical studies. The review noted that nerolidol’s skin penetration-enhancing properties make it relevant for topical cannabis formulations. LaVigne et al. (2021) found that nerolidol, alongside other sesquiterpenes, can selectively enhance cannabinoid activity, suggesting it plays a more active pharmacological role than simply contributing to aroma. Previous Myrcene Next Terpinolene Back to full Terpenes Guide Important: The information on this page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Terpene research is still in its early stages. Many studies have been done in animals, not yet in people. Always speak to your doctor before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Booth, J.K. and Bohlmann, J. (2019) ‘Terpenes in Cannabis sativa: from plant genome to humans’, Plant Science, 284, pp. 67-72. doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2019.03.022. LaVigne, J.E. et al. (2021) ‘Cannabis sativa terpenes are cannabimimetic and selectively enhance cannabinoid activity’, Scientific Reports, 11(1), 8232. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-87740-8. Nuutinen, T. (2018) ‘Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus’, European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 157, pp. 198-228. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.07.076.