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Every strain of cannabis is unique, from its composition and coloring to its scent and flavor. Perhaps you’ve wondered what it is that gives cannabis its unique flavors. In particular, if you’ve ever experienced that signature piney, floral smell, what you’ve been smelling is terpinolene. So what exactly is terpinolene? Let’s explore below.
What Is Terpinolene?
If you’ve ever asked yourself what it is that gives plants their unique smell, you can thank the hydrocarbons known as terpenes. Terpinolene is one of the least-common terpenes in cannabis, but is also what gives many strains of cannabis their rich aroma. Terpinolene, known for its piney, woody scent, is also found in conifers, apple, rosemary, sage, lilac and tea tree.
The Notes Of Terpinolene
There are about 20,000 different terpenes in existence, all of which are responsible for numerous different kinds of smells and flavors in the natural world around us, but with only 200 of these being found in cannabis. Terpinolene is the terpene responsible for the piney, woody flavor and scent in cannabis. Terpinolene is also a complex terpene, as it’s always accompanied by floral and citrus notes alongside its signature forest-like scent.
The Many Benefits Of Terpinolene
In addition to having a delicious aroma, terpinolene has many health benefits which further prove the medicinal properties and potential of cannabis. Below, we will discuss what’s been explored thus far about different terpinolene benefits.
Protective Terpene: Terpinolene Against Bacteria And Pests
One of the many terpinolene benefits is its antifungal and antimicrobial properties. A recent study has shown that terpinolene is effective in reducing the efficiency of E. coli bacteria, salmonella, and various other types of bacteria and microbes. Terpinolene is also an effective pesticide and is therefore often used as an ingredient in insect repellants. Terpinolene terpenes are particularly effective in repelling mosquitoes and beetles.
Terpinolene Has Anti-Cancer Properties
Terpinolene has also been shown to have effective anti-cancer properties. Terpinolene effectively hinders cancer cell proliferation (reproduction) by regulating the function of certain cell proteins. Terpinolene has been found to effectively inhibit the reproduction of AKT, a protein found in cells that causes cancer when its number is increased. This means that terpinolene is essentially an inhibitor to cancerous growth and can successfully slow the rate of cancer cell reproduction.
Calming Down: Terpinolene As A Sedative
Another one of terpinolene’s effects is its sedative properties. Terpinolene acts as a mild depressive agent which directly affects the central nervous system. These naturally-occurring depressants are able to calm psychological excitement and reduce anxiety, making the terpene a strong candidate as a treatment for various anxiety conditions. The depressant properties of terpinolene can also be used to treat sleeping conditions such as insomnia, especially when taken in conjunction with lavender or lilac.
It’s An Anti-Oxidizing Agent
Terpinolene is also an effective antioxidant. In a 2005 German study, it was found that terpinolene was effective in preventing low-density lipoprotein oxidation. Low-density lipoprotein, also known as LDL or “bad cholesterol”, is one of the main causes of blocked arteries and heart disease. Terpinolene stops the oxidation of LDL, which basically means that terpinolene stabilizes LDL cholesterol and prevents it from turning into “bad” cholesterol.
Signature Terpinolene Strains
If you’re looking for certain strains with dominant terpinolene terpenes, look no further than Pineapple Kush and Jack Herer; these will be sure to give you all the benefits of terpinolene with that signature woody, piney, citrusy aroma.
A Dollop of Pineapple Kush
Pineapple Kush (RQS) - Photoperiod
- Flying away in delicious aromas
- 18 %
- 500 - 550 g/m² indoors
500 - 550 g/plant outdoors
Often referred to as a “dessert strain”, Pineapple Kush will easily become one of your favorites. The uniqueness of its sweet, vanilla taste is heightened by notes of citrus and pineapple. It is Indica dominant, ranging from 15-21% THC, so users can expect a euphoric, tingly, relaxed high throughout the mind and body.
Try This: Jack Herer
Jack Herer (GHS) - Photoperiod
- 20.94 %
- Powerful multidimensional impact
- 800 g/m² indoors
1200 g/plant outdoors
Clocking in at around 21% THC, Jack Herer is sure to pique your interest. Known for its woody, earthy aroma with hints of citrus, Jack Herer is sure to provide users with a pleasant, uplifting buzz. As it’s an Indica-dominant strain, you can also expect to feel extremely relaxed and carefree.
Now You Know What You Need Terpinolene For
It’s clear that cannabis has medicinal properties and that, by examining individual terpenes further, we can perhaps discover even more medical benefits of the plant. Now you know that terpinolene not only provide your cannabis with delicious flavors and savory scents, but is also extremely beneficial for your wellbeing. Best of all, you can now use this knowledge when choosing your next strain!
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