Cannabis is a complex plant, boasting over 100 cannabinoids and myriad terpenes (both dominant and rare terpenes) contributing to its unique effects. While most people are familiar with THC and CBD, the cannabinoids that dominate the plant’s chemical profile, terpenes are less understood. These aromatic compounds, responsible for the distinct scents of different cannabis strains, play a crucial role in the plant’s therapeutic potential.
However, lab testing doesn’t always report on the full terpene profile, especially those that appear in minute quantities. Despite their rarity, these terpenes contribute to the entourage effect, enhancing the overall cannabis experience.
Exploring Rare Cannabis Terpenes
Myrcene, limonene, and pinene often get the most recognition as dominant cannabis terpenes, but what about the little guys? There are plenty of minor and rare cannabis terpenes contributing to your cannabis experience. Here are several worth noting.
Phytol: The Soothing Agent
Phytol is a diterpene alcohol that is naturally present in cannabis and many other plants. It has a mild, floral aroma with hints of citrus and balsamic. Some research suggests that phytol may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could potentially be beneficial for conditions like arthritis and neurodegenerative diseases. Cannabis strains that are rich in phytol include Blue Dream and Trainwreck.
Borneol: The Cooling Essence
Borneol is a monoterpene that has a cool, minty aroma and a slightly bitter taste. It’s found in several different plants, including cannabis, wormwood, and rosemary. Borneol has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Some cannabis strains that are high in borneol include K13 Haze.
Camphene: The Woodsy Aroma
Camphene is a bicyclic monoterpene that has a pungent, earthy aroma. It’s found in a variety of plants, including cannabis, camphor, and cypress. Some research suggests that camphene may have potential benefits for cardiovascular health. Strains of cannabis that are high in camphene include Ghost OG.
Eucalyptol: The Refreshing Mint
Eucalyptol, or cineole, is a monoterpene with a fresh, minty aroma. It’s found in a variety of plants, including cannabis, eucalyptus, and tea trees. Eucalyptol has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Cannabis strains that are high in eucalyptol include Super Silver Haze.
Sabinene: The Citrus Spice
Sabinene is a monoterpene that has a spicy, citrusy aroma. It’s found in a variety of plants, including cannabis, black pepper, and basil. Some research suggests that sabinene may have potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Cannabis strains that are high in sabinene include OG Kush.
Bisabolol: The Skin Soother
Bisabolol, also known as levomenol, is a monocyclic sesquiterpene alcohol that has a sweet, floral aroma. It’s found in a variety of plants, including cannabis, chamomile, and candeia tree. Bisabolol has been studied for its potential skin-soothing properties. Cannabis strains that are high in bisabolol include Harle-Tsu.
Nerolidol: The Woody Tranquilizer
Nerolidol is a sesquiterpene that has a woody, fruity aroma. It’s found in a variety of plants, including cannabis, ginger, and lavender. Nerolidol has been studied for its potential sedative and antifungal properties. Cannabis strains that are high in nerolidol include Jack Herer.
Valencene: The Citrus Burst
Valencene is a sesquiterpene that has a sweet, citrusy aroma. It’s found in a variety of plants, including cannabis, Valencia oranges, and grapefruit. Some research suggests that valencene may have potential anti-inflammatory and insect-repellent properties. Cannabis strains that are high in valencene include Tangie.
Pulegone: The Minty Freshness
Pulegone is a monoterpene that has a strong, minty aroma. It’s found in a variety of plants, including cannabis, pennyroyal, and peppermint. Some research suggests that pulegone may have potential memory-enhancing and insect-repellent properties. Cannabis strains that are high in pulegone include Purple Haze.
Camphor: The Cooling Comfort
Camphor is a bicyclic monoterpene that has a strong, cooling aroma. It’s found in a variety of plants, including cannabis, laurel, and rosemary. Camphor has been used in traditional medicine for its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Cannabis strains that are high in camphor include Strawberry Cough.
Harnessing the Power of Cannabis Terpenes
The world of cannabis terpenes is vast and varied, with each terpene contributing its unique aroma. But the importance of terpenes extends beyond their aroma. Emerging research suggests that these compounds may have a range of potential therapeutic benefits, from anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects to potential benefits for skin health and cardiovascular health.
Furthermore, terpenes are thought to contribute to the entourage effect, a theory that suggests the compounds in cannabis may work together synergistically to enhance their effects. When selecting a cannabis strain, it’s important to consider not just the cannabinoid content, but also the terpene profile. There are endless combinations to explore, and your new favorite strain is out there waiting for you!
