What is terpinolene?

Within the world of terpenes, we can find thousands of variants and forms of them. Terpinolene is one of them, and in today’s post, we’re going to explain everything about it.

We remind you that terpenes are the chemicals produced by plants that develop both their taste and smell. Not only in cannabis seeds, but they can also be found in most plants in vegetation. In addition to granting them organoleptic properties, the main function of terpenes is to protect plants from any agents that may harm them. These agents can range from animals or insects to extreme temperatures.

In this way, we can already see the importance and usefulness of terpenes. But it doesn’t stop there, as most terpenes develop medicinal and therapeutic properties. And terpinolene is no exception. Not only that, but it is also used in various industries thanks to its numerous qualities. Are you staying to see what they are?

Structure of terpinolene

Terpinolene is also known as delta-terpinene, because it is one of the isomers of terpinene. Terpinene has four isomers: α-terpinene, β-terpinene, γ-terpinene, and δ-terpinene. Of these, it is the latter, delta-terpinene, that is found in greater quantity and with greater frequency in plants. In conventional plants and, above all, in cannabis plants.

Nevertheless, it is considered a secondary and minority terpene. This is because among the most common terpenes, this is the least common in marijuana plants. Despite this, its role is quite important, so it defines the taste and smell of many varieties.

It is a monoterpene, and if you have been reading our previous posts, you will know that it is the union of two units of isoprenes. Then, it is made up of 10 hydrocarbon atoms, so it is a simple molecule.

Its boiling point is 184°C, and it has the appearance of a colorless liquid, although pale yellowish tones could be appreciated.

Taste and aroma of terpinolene

Terpinolene stands out for having a special aroma and taste, which is refreshing, herbal, citrusy, and piney, with floral and woody nuances. It can be found in numerous species of the plant kingdom:

• Apple
• Cumin
• Lilac
• Pine
• Tea tree
• Rosemary
• Sage
• Conifers
• Valerian
• Wild parsnips
• Cannabis Sativa L.

These are just some examples of plants that contain terpinolene. In fact, wild parsnips are the plants with the highest percentage of terpinolene in all of nature. It is known that in essential oil format, it contains up to 69% of this terpene.

As you can see, it is a decisive terpene in the taste and aroma of many plants, including cannabis. As a curiosity, in marijuana plants, terpinolene is found much more frequently in varieties with sativa dominance.

Effects and benefits of terpinolene

The main effect we can find with the consumption of terpinolene is sedative and relaxing. This will greatly benefit the terpene in terms of its therapeutic or medicinal qualities, which we will detail later.

As we have already mentioned, terpinolene has many other benefits due to its good aroma and taste. Therefore, it has been widely used by various types of industries.

Firstly, it is used in the cosmetics industry, giving its soaps, gels, perfumes, and other products an unparalleled fresh scent. It is also used in the food industry as a flavoring agent. Although in food, it is also used as a preservative. It is a good preservative because it is highly useful for stopping the decomposition of the natural fibers of foods.

Finally, like all terpenes, being a potent natural insecticide agent, it is also part of the long list of ingredients in industrial insect repellents.

What are the medicinal properties of terpinolene?

The medicinal properties of terpinolene are quite peculiar, as they do not resemble those of the rest of the terpenes we have already studied. Instead of having high analgesic or anti-inflammatory properties, this terpene stands out for its sedative, antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antioxidant effects. In addition, its potential anticancer and preventive benefits for cardiovascular diseases are also known.

But let’s take it step by step. According to a study published in 201

3 by the Journal of Natural Medicines, terpinolene has sedative properties when absorbed through the nose, that is, when inhaled. The conclusions were drawn after conducting a clinical trial on mice. These animals experienced the sedative effect after inhaling terpinolene. In this way, delta-terpinene could be very useful for combating anxiety, stress, or insomnia. It is true that its sedative action is mild. However, when used in combination with lilac and lavender, it has a good result as a treatment for sleep disorders and to calm anxiety attacks.

It is an excellent antimicrobial, especially against specific bacteria such as Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Escherichia coli. The essential oil of terpinolene was extracted from the leaves, roots, and seeds of the plant. After this, it was found that the most effective was the one extracted from the leaves. It was also discovered that it is an ideal antifungal against Propionibacterium. This is the genus of bacteria responsible for generating acne.

Like many other terpenes, it works and has been widely used as a natural antiseptic. In this way, its application serves to heal certain shallow wounds and prevent their inflammation and infection.

Antioxidant and anticancer properties of Terpinolene have been discovered

On the other hand, it also has antioxidant properties, so it protects DNA from possible damage. This antioxidant capacity has an effect on human lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are a subtype of our white blood cells. These cells were exposed to terpinolene for periods of 24 and 48 hours. With this test, they discovered how the levels of antioxidant capacity of lymphocytes increased while maintaining total oxidative stress constant.

More recently, it has been discovered that this terpene also has anticancer functions. Several studies have found that terpinolene slows down and even prevents the growth of malignant cells. In one of them, carried out in 2012, it was concluded that, through sage and rosemary (rich in terpinolene), it helps inhibit the protein responsible for proliferating cancer cells throughout the body. In this way, terpinolene prevents the growth of cancer cells and, when they exist, stops their reproduction.

Finally, and also from current studies, the preventive capacity of cardiovascular diseases of this terpene has been discovered. In this context, terpinolene could be used to combat the oxidation of low-intensity lipoproteins. These are responsible for causing bad cholesterol. The accumulation of this cholesterol in our arteries can lead to cardiovascular accidents.

Cannabis varieties rich in terpinolene

We have already detailed the low incidence of terpinolene in cannabis plants. However, significant levels of this terpene can be found in certain varieties, available in our online Grow Shop. If you have been interested in the therapeutic properties that terpinolene can offer you, do not hesitate to try any of the following strains:

Super Lemon Haze

Extensively awarded, this sativa-dominant strain offers an incredible feeling of creativity and a motivating and euphoric mood. However, its low percentage of indica is evident in the effect, which can also be calming and relaxing. As for its aroma, it is fruity, citrusy, and has a freshness typical of terpinolene. On the other hand, Super Lemon Haze on the palate shows citrus, herbal, vanilla, and violet notes mixed with earthy tones. Medicinally, it is perfect for treating anxiety, fatigue, and depression.

Sour Diesel

In our bulk seed catalog, we have this sativa-dominant strain of enormous quality and potency. It is the result of a cross of unknown varieties. It was developed by New York growers between the 1980s and 1990s. Its effect is mixed, so it depends on the consumer. It can be physically relaxing as well as mentally stimulating. Its taste and aroma are quite citrusy and acidic, which lasts quite a while in the mouth.

Royal Jack Auto

Descendant of one of the most prestigious strains (Jack Herer). The predominantly sativa offers a potent effect that improves your mood. Whether you feel like having a laugh with your friends or prefer to relax, it is a perfect variety for both occasions. The aroma and taste come from its incredible heritage. That is, it is refreshing with incense, spice, and pepper notes. Medicinally, it is a perfect variety as a muscle relaxant.

Gorilla

The high THC levels of this variety, which can reach 25%, provide incredible potency in the physical effect of this indica-dominant strain. Its aroma and taste resemble fuel with acidic citrus and earthy notes. The result of the cross between Chocolate Diesel x Chem Sister x Sour Dubb was an accidental creation. Still, it has been awarded several important prizes. Its large resin productions make it an ideal variety for lovers of extractions.

Green Crack

This genetics is the result of the cross of the mythical Skunk#1 x Afghani. It offers a wide variety of earthy, sweet, and citrusy flavors and aromas. The sativa-dominant has psychoactive effects both mental and physical. Although these latter predominate towards more energizing and cheerful sensations. Medicinally, this genetics is ideal for combating anxiety, fatigue, pain, and migraines.

Are you interested in this terpene as much as we are? Keep reading our posts to learn all the curiosities about marijuana plants.