What is terpinolene?

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

What are terpenes?

Let’s recall what terpenes are; they are chemical substances produced by plants that develop both their flavor and scent. This applies not only to marijuana seed varieties but also to most plants in nature. In addition to providing organoleptic properties, the main function of terpenes is to protect plants from any agents that could harm them. These agents can range from animals or insects to extreme temperatures.

Thus, we can already see the importance and utility 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. Will you stay 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 last one, delta-terpinene, that is found in the greatest quantity and with greatest frequency in plants. In conventional plants and, above all, in cannabis plants.

Even so, it is considered a secondary and minor terpene. This is because, among the most common terpenes, it is the least common in marijuana plants. Despite this, its role is quite important, as it defines the flavor and scent 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 isoprene units. Therefore, it is made up of 10 hydrocarbon atoms, making it a simple molecule.

Its boiling point is 184 °C, and it appears as a colorless liquid, although pale yellowish tones might be visible.

Flavor and aroma of terpinolene

Terpinolene stands out for having a special aroma and flavor that is refreshing, herbal, citrusy, and pine-like, 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 have been able to verify, it is a decisive terpene in the flavor and aroma of many plants, including cannabis. As a curiosity, in marijuana plants, terpinolene is found with much greater frequency in sativa-dominant varieties.

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 pleasant aroma and flavor. For this reason, it has been widely used by various types of industries.

Firstly, it is used in the cosmetic industry, which gives its soaps, gels, perfumes, and other products incomparable fresh scents. 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 natural food fibers.

Finally, and like all terpenes, as it is 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 antitumor and cardiovascular disease-preventive benefits are also known.

But let’s take it one step at a time. According to a study published in 2013 by the Journal of Natural Medicines, terpinolene has sedative properties if it is absorbed through the nose, that is, if it is inhaled. The conclusions were drawn after conducting a clinical trial on mice. These animals experienced the sedative effect after the inhalation of terpinolene. Thus, delta-terpinene could be very useful for combating anxiety, stress, or insomnia. It is true that its sedative action is mild. However, 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 verified that the most effective was the one extracted from the leaves. In addition, 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 used a lot 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 have been discovered in terpinolene

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. They exposed these cells to terpinolene for periods of 24 and 48 hours. With this test, they discovered how the antioxidant capacity levels of the lymphocytes increased while keeping total oxidative stress invariable.

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, conducted in 2012, it was concluded that, through sage and rosemary (rich in terpinolene), it helps to inhibit the protein responsible for proliferating cancer cells throughout the body. Thus, terpinolene prevents the growth of cancer cells and, when they exist, slows their reproduction.

Finally, and also as a result of current studies, the preventive capacity for cardiovascular diseases of this terpene has been discovered. In this context, terpinolene could be used to combat the oxidation of low-density 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 noted in certain varieties, available in our online Grow Shop. If you are interested in the therapeutic properties that terpinolene can offer you, do not hesitate to try any of the following strains:

Super Lemon Haze

Widely awarded, this sativa-dominant strain offers us an incredible sensation of creativity and a motivating and euphoric mood. However, its reduced percentage of indica is hinted at in the effect, which can also be calming and relaxing. Regarding its aroma, it is fruity, citrusy, and presents a freshness typical of terpinolene. For its part, Super Lemon Haze on the palate shows citrus, herbal, vanilla, and violet nuances mixed with earthy notes. Medicinally, it is perfect for treating anxiety, fatigue, and depression.

Sour Diesel

In our catalog of bulk seeds, we have this sativa-dominant strain of enormous quality and potency. Sour Diesel is the result of a cross of unknown varieties. It was developed by some 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 flavor and aroma are quite citrusy and acidic, which lingers quite a bit in the mouth.

Royal Jack Auto

It is a descendant of one of the most prestigious strains (Jack Herer). The sativa-dominant strain offers a powerful 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 flavor come from its incredible heritage. That is, it is refreshing with nuances of incense, spices, and pepper. 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 flavor are reminiscent of 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. Even so, it has been awarded several important prizes. Its large resin production makes it an ideal variety for lovers of extractions.

Green Crack Auto

This genetics is the result of the cross of the legendary Skunk#1 x Afghani. It offers us a large amount of earthy, sweet, and citrusy flavors and aromas. The sativa-dominant strain has mental and bodily psychoactive effects. Although in Green Crack Auto, the latter predominate towards more energizing and cheerful sensations. Medicinally, this genetics is ideal for combating anxiety, fatigue, pain, and migraines.

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