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 Guaiol Next Myrcene 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 Trans-Nerolidol Next Camphene 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.

Alpha-Bisabolol

Alpha-Bisabolol – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide Alpha-Bisabolol α-Bisabolol, Levomenol pronounced: AL-fuh bih-SAB-oh-lol The chamomile terpene. Used in skin creams for centuries. Sesquiterpene Boiling point: 153°C Terpene type Sesquiterpene Boiling point 153°C Primary aroma Floral Key effect Calm Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of alpha-bisabolol is described as: FloralSweetChamomile-likeHoneyPowdery Found naturally in: Chamomile, candeia wood, sage, sweet grass Effects Linked Effects CalmAnti-inflammatoryRelaxingSkin soothing 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 Alpha-Bisabolol? Alpha-bisabolol has a gentle, sweet, floral aroma that is immediately recognisable as chamomile. It is the main active terpene in chamomile essential oil and has been used in skincare for hundreds of years. In cannabis, it tends to appear as a secondary terpene, adding a soft, powdery floral note to strains that contain it. As a sesquiterpene, it is a larger and heavier molecule than monoterpenes. This means it does not evaporate as quickly and can have a more persistent effect when applied to skin or inhaled. It is also one of the terpenes found in the KAST batch data on this site, appearing in several of the CSC Cannacosta strains (Booth and Bohlmann, 2019). Effects in detail What the Research Says Alpha-bisabolol has one of the strongest track records among terpenes for skin-related applications. It reduces redness and irritation, helps other ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively, and has been found to have antimicrobial properties. This is why it appears in so many pharmaceutical creams and lotions. In cannabis, its contribution to the overall experience is likely related to its calming and anti-inflammatory effects. Nuutinen (2018) reviewed evidence for anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory activity. Baram et al. (2022) found that bisabolol activates endocannabinoid receptors, adding to the entourage effect. Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life Chamomile tea is the most accessible everyday source. The calming effect that chamomile tea is famous for is partly due to bisabolol and related compounds in the plant. When you drink a cup before bed, you are consuming a small amount of this terpene. Candeia wood (Eremanthus erythropappus), a tree native to Brazil, contains the highest natural concentrations of alpha-bisabolol and has historically been over-harvested to supply the cosmetics industry. Most commercial bisabolol is now produced synthetically or from sustainably managed sources. Research Key Studies Nuutinen (2018) reviewed bisabolol’s pharmacological profile and noted evidence for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties. The review also highlighted its role as a penetration enhancer, meaning it can help other therapeutic compounds cross biological barriers more effectively. Baram et al. (2022) confirmed endocannabinoid receptor activity for bisabolol at physiologically relevant concentrations. Francomano et al. (2025) included it in their review of terpenes contributing to the entourage effect in cannabis medicines, noting particular interest in topical cannabis formulations. Previous Ocimene Next Trans-Nerolidol 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 Baram, L. et al. (2022) ‘Major cannabis terpenes, applied individually and in combination, activate endogenous cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors’, Frontiers in Pharmacology, 13, 1040962. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1040962. 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. Francomano, F. et al. (2025) ‘The entourage effect in cannabis medicinal products: a comprehensive review’, Pharmaceuticals, 18(3), 378. doi: 10.3390/ph18030378. 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.

Humulene

Humulene – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide Humulene α-Humulene, Alpha-Caryophyllene pronounced: HYOO-myoo-leen The hoppy terpene. Gives beer its herbal, earthy character. Sesquiterpene Boiling point: 107°C Terpene type Sesquiterpene Boiling point 107°C Primary aroma Hoppy Key effect Pain relief Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of humulene is described as: HoppyEarthyWoodyHerbalBeer-like Found naturally in: Hops, sage, ginseng, coriander, basil Effects Linked Effects Pain reliefAnti-inflammatoryAppetite suppressantAntibacterial 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 Humulene? Humulene is a sesquiterpene with a deep, earthy, and distinctly hoppy aroma. If you enjoy the smell of a good craft ale, you have experienced humulene. It is the dominant terpene in hops (Humulus lupulus), the plant used to flavour beer, and is found alongside beta-caryophyllene in many cannabis strains. It is sometimes called alpha-caryophyllene because the two molecules are closely related in structure. However, they have different shapes and slightly different aroma and pharmacological profiles. Humulene has a lower boiling point than caryophyllene, meaning it evaporates first when cannabis is heated (Nuutinen, 2018). Effects in detail What the Research Says Humulene has been studied primarily for anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Nuutinen (2018) reviewed evidence showing that it can reduce inflammatory markers in cell studies. It is also one of the few terpenes associated with appetite suppression rather than stimulation, which makes it distinct from myrcene. Its anti-inflammatory effects may work alongside beta-caryophyllene when both are present in a strain, as the two terpenes share similar mechanisms through the endocannabinoid system. This interaction is an example of the entourage effect described by Russo (2011). Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life Beer is the most obvious everyday source. Hoppy beers, particularly India Pale Ales and pale ales, contain the highest concentrations of humulene. The sharp, herbal bitterness of a hop-forward beer comes largely from this terpene. Sage and ginseng are notable non-hop sources. Traditional herbal medicine has used both of these plants for centuries, and researchers are now beginning to investigate whether humulene plays a role in their therapeutic effects. Coriander and basil also contain it in smaller amounts. Research Key Studies Nuutinen (2018) provided a comprehensive review of humulene’s pharmacological properties, noting significant evidence for anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antibacterial activity in preclinical models. The review highlighted the potential for humulene to work synergistically with cannabinoids. Francomano et al. (2025) included humulene in their review of terpenes contributing to the entourage effect, noting that its combination with beta-caryophyllene in cannabis products may provide enhanced anti-inflammatory activity compared to either compound alone. Previous Terpinolene Next Ocimene 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 Francomano, F. et al. (2025) ‘The entourage effect in cannabis medicinal products: a comprehensive review’, Pharmaceuticals, 18(3), 378. doi: 10.3390/ph18030378. 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. 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.

Beta-Caryophyllene

Beta-Caryophyllene – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide Beta-Caryophyllene β-Caryophyllene (BCP) pronounced: BAY-tuh kair-ee-oh-FIL-een The only terpene that acts like a cannabinoid. Activates CB2 receptors directly. Sesquiterpene Boiling point: 130°C Terpene type Sesquiterpene Boiling point 130°C Primary aroma Spicy Key effect Pain relief Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of beta-caryophyllene is described as: SpicyPepperyWoodyWarm Clove Found naturally in: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, oregano, copaiba Effects Linked Effects Pain reliefAnti-inflammatoryCalmNeuroprotective 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 Beta-Caryophyllene? Beta-caryophyllene is unique among terpenes. While most terpenes add to the cannabis experience through aroma and indirect effects, beta-caryophyllene can directly activate a receptor in the body called CB2. This is the same type of receptor that CBD works on. Because of this, some scientists classify it as a dietary cannabinoid as well as a terpene (Hashiesh et al., 2021). It is a sesquiterpene, meaning it is a larger molecule than monoterpenes like myrcene or limonene. This makes it less volatile and it tends to linger in the smell of a strain longer. Its aroma is immediately recognisable: the sharp, spicy heat of freshly ground black pepper (Booth and Bohlmann, 2019). Effects in detail What the Research Says Because beta-caryophyllene binds to CB2 receptors, it can influence inflammation and immune responses. CB2 receptors are found mainly outside the brain, particularly in immune cells, which means BCP can affect inflammation without causing psychoactive effects (Hashiesh et al., 2021). Preclinical studies have found potential benefits for pain relief, anxiety reduction, and even neuroprotection. Russo (2011) identified it as one of the most clinically interesting terpenes precisely because of its direct receptor activity. Research is ongoing into its potential for conditions involving chronic pain and inflammation. Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life Black pepper is the richest everyday source. When you smell a pepper grinder, the spicy, slightly woody warmth is beta-caryophyllene. Cloves and cinnamon also contain high amounts, and it is a significant component of oregano, basil, and rosemary. Copaiba oil, used in traditional Amazonian medicine and now sold as a wellness supplement, contains very high concentrations of beta-caryophyllene. Some researchers studying copaiba’s anti-inflammatory properties believe BCP is the active ingredient responsible for its effects. Research Key Studies The landmark paper that established beta-caryophyllene as a CB2 agonist was published by Gertsch et al. (2008), though it is cited through Hashiesh et al. (2021) in this guide’s scope. Hashiesh and colleagues reviewed the broad pharmacological evidence and concluded that BCP has significant therapeutic potential for inflammatory and neuropathic conditions. Baram et al. (2022) confirmed that BCP activates CB2 at concentrations found in cannabis products, strengthening the case for its clinical relevance. Its non-psychoactive nature makes it particularly interesting as a potential therapeutic target. Previous Alpha-Pinene 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 Baram, L. et al. (2022) ‘Major cannabis terpenes, applied individually and in combination, activate endogenous cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors’, Frontiers in Pharmacology, 13, 1040962. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1040962. 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. Hashiesh, H.S. et al. (2021) ‘A focused review on CB2 receptor-selective pharmacological properties and therapeutic potential of beta-caryophyllene’, Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy, 140, 111639. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111639. 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.

Alpha-Pinene

Alpha-Pinene – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide Alpha-Pinene α-Pinene pronounced: AL-fuh PY-neen Smells like a pine forest. Found in pine needles and rosemary. Monoterpene Boiling point: 156°C Terpene type Monoterpene Boiling point 156°C Primary aroma Pine Key effect Focus Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of alpha-pinene is described as: PineResinousSharp WoodFresh Forest Found naturally in: Pine needles, rosemary, basil, dill, eucalyptus Effects Linked Effects FocusEnergyAnti-inflammatoryMemory support 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 Alpha-Pinene? Alpha-pinene is the most abundant terpene in the natural world. If you have ever walked through a pine forest and taken a deep breath, you have experienced it directly. It gives pine trees their sharp, clean, resinous smell and is the dominant scent in rosemary and eucalyptus. In cannabis, alpha-pinene is one of the secondary terpenes found in many strains. It contributes a piney, fresh edge to the overall aroma. Strains high in pinene are sometimes described as smelling like a forest floor or fresh herbs (Booth and Bohlmann, 2019). Effects in detail What the Research Says Alpha-pinene is one of the most studied terpenes for its effects on the mind. It is a known bronchodilator at low concentrations, meaning it can help open up the airways. Weston-Green et al. (2021) reviewed evidence suggesting pinene may support memory and alertness by blocking enzymes that break down acetylcholine, a brain chemical involved in memory and attention. This is particularly interesting in the context of medical cannabis, because some people report that high-THC products can affect memory temporarily. The presence of alpha-pinene in a strain may partially counteract this effect (Russo, 2011). It also has well-documented anti-inflammatory properties. Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life Rosemary is probably the easiest everyday source of alpha-pinene. When you rub a sprig of rosemary between your fingers, the sharp, piney smell you get is largely alpha-pinene. Basil, dill, and parsley also contain it, as do many coniferous trees. Pine-scented cleaning products and air fresheners almost always use pinene as the fragrance source. It is considered safe at normal exposure levels and is approved as a food flavouring in many countries. Research Key Studies Weston-Green et al. (2021) published a detailed review of the potential of pinene as a medicine for brain health. They found evidence from preclinical studies that it can reduce anxiety, improve memory, and act as a neuroprotective compound, though human clinical trials are still limited. Russo (2011) highlighted alpha-pinene specifically as a terpene that may modulate the psychoactive effects of THC by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, helping to maintain working memory. Nuutinen (2018) confirmed these findings across a broader review of cannabis terpene pharmacology. Previous Limonene Next Beta-Caryophyllene 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. 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. 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. Weston-Green, K. et al. (2021) ‘A review of the potential use of pinene and linalool as terpene-based medicines for brain health’, Frontiers in Psychiatry, 12, 583211. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.583211.

Myrcene

Myrcene – PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Terpenes Guide Myrcene Beta-Myrcene pronounced: MUR-seen The most common terpene in cannabis. Found in mangoes and hops. Monoterpene Boiling point: 167°C Terpene type Monoterpene Boiling point 167°C Primary aroma Earthy Key effect Relaxing Aroma profile How it Smells The aroma of myrcene is described as: EarthyMuskyClovesCardamomSweet Found naturally in: Mangoes, hops, lemongrass, thyme, bay leaves Effects Linked Effects RelaxingSleep supportPain reliefAnti-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 Myrcene? Myrcene is the terpene found in the highest amounts in most cannabis strains. It is why so many varieties have that earthy, slightly musky smell with a hint of ripe fruit. You are already familiar with it even if you did not know the name: that rich smell when you bite into a ripe mango, or the hoppy scent of beer, both come from myrcene. Chemically, myrcene is a small monoterpene molecule (Booth and Bohlmann, 2019). It evaporates quickly at room temperature, which is why the smell hits you straight away when you open a sealed container. Effects in detail What the Research Says Early research suggests myrcene may have sedative and muscle-relaxant properties (Nuutinen, 2018). Studies in animals have found it can reduce pain signals and lower inflammation (Baram et al., 2022). People who use cannabis strains high in myrcene often describe feeling deeply relaxed and sleepy. Myrcene is also thought to play a role in the entourage effect. Some researchers believe it may help other compounds, including THC and CBD, cross into the brain more easily, which could make effects feel stronger or come on faster (Russo, 2011). Everyday sources Where You Find it in Daily Life You can find myrcene in many everyday foods. Mangoes are the richest natural source. Hops (used to brew beer) are packed with it, and it is what gives India Pale Ale its distinctive earthy and slightly sweet bitterness. Bay leaves, lemongrass, and thyme also contain myrcene in smaller amounts. Some people eat a ripe mango about 45 minutes before using medical cannabis. The idea is that the myrcene in the mango might add to the overall effect. There is no strong clinical evidence for this yet, but it is a harmless experiment if your doctor approves. Research Key Studies A 2022 study by Baram et al. found that myrcene activates both CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body. These are the same receptors that THC and CBD work on. This supports the idea that terpenes are more than just smell molecules. Russo (2011) reviewed the science behind the entourage effect and identified myrcene as one of the most important terpenes for cannabis pharmacology. A later study by LaVigne et al. (2021) confirmed that cannabis terpenes, including myrcene, can enhance the activity of cannabinoids at low concentrations. Previous Camphene Next Limonene 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 Baram, L. et al. (2022) ‘Major cannabis terpenes, applied individually and in combination, activate endogenous cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors’, Frontiers in Pharmacology, 13, 1040962. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1040962. 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. 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.