Terpinolene is a terpene that gives cannabis its distinctive woody and pine aroma, accompanied by delicate hints of citrus and flowers. Not limited only to cannabis, this compound is also found in plants such as tea tree, conifers, apples, caraway, sage, rosemary and lilac.

Also known as delta-terpinene, terpinolene is a valuable member of the vast terpene family, known not only for its intoxicating scent but also for its health benefits. In this article, we explore the properties and effects of this interesting terpene and invite you to discover how it can contribute to your well-being through the natural products offered by Maria CBD Oil.

What is terpinolene?

Terpinolene is one of thousands of variants of terpenes that exist in nature: over the next few lines, we will explore its characteristics in more detail.

Terpenes are chemicals produced by plants that are responsible for the development of distinctive flavours and odours. As mentioned earlier, they are present not only in cannabis, but also in most vegetation. In addition to providing organoleptic characteristics, terpenes play a key role in protecting plants from harmful agents such as animals, insects and extreme weather conditions.

The importance of terpenes goes beyond their protective function. Many of them possess significant medicinal and therapeutic properties. Terpinolene is one such terpene, renowned for its many beneficial qualities that favour its use in various industries.

Read on to find out how this compound can contribute to your well-being and how it is used in the natural products offered by Maria CBD Oil.

The structure of terpinolene

Terpinolene, or delta-terpinene, is one of the isomers of terpinene. Terpinene comprises four isomers: α-terpinene, β-terpinene, γ-terpinene and δ-terpinene, with the latter, delta-terpinene, being found most frequently and in greatest abundance in plants, including cannabis. Although considered a minor and secondary terpene, as it is less prevalent in marijuana plants than other terpenes, terpinolene plays a crucial role in defining the taste and smell of many varieties.

Terpinolene is a monoterpene, formed by combining two isoprene units, resulting in a simple molecule consisting of 10 carbon atoms. This compound reaches boiling point at 184°C and appears as a colourless liquid, sometimes with a pale yellow tone.

Beneficial effects of terpinolene

Terpinolene is mainly known for its sedative and relaxing effects, making it a valuable component for those seeking relief from stress and wishing to improve their general well-being.

The pleasant aroma and taste of terpinolene have led to its wide use in various industries. In the cosmetics industry, terpinolene is valued for its fresh and inimitable fragrance, making it an ideal ingredient for soaps, gels, fragrances and other similar products. In the food industry, it is used as a natural flavouring and preservative, helping to preserve the natural fibres of food and prolong its shelf life.

In addition to its uses in cosmetics and food, terpinolene is also recognised for its natural insecticidal properties. This makes it a common ingredient in insect repellents, offering an effective and natural solution to keep insects away.

Medicinal properties of terpinolene

The medicinal properties of terpinolene are unique and differ significantly from other terpenes. Although it does not possess analgesic or anti-inflammatory characteristics, terpinolene is renowned for its sedative, antimicrobial, antibacterial and antioxidant effects. In addition, it may offer anti-cancer benefits and contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

According to a 2013 study published in the Revista de Medicinas Naturales, terpinolene demonstrated sedative properties when inhaled. In tests conducted on rats, inhalation of terpinolene induced clear signs of sedation, suggesting potential applications to combat stress, anxiety and insomnia. Although its sedative effect is relatively mild, in combination with plants such as lilac and lavender, terpinolene may provide effective results in treating sleep disorders and calming anxiety attacks.

Terpinolene also stands out as a powerful antimicrobial, particularly effective against bacteria such as Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli. Studies have revealed that essential oil extracted from the leaves of plants containing terpinolene offers the highest concentration of this compound. Furthermore, terpinolene has proven to be an excellent fungicide, effective against Propionibacterium, a bacterium responsible for acne. Its natural antiseptic properties make it useful in treating superficial wounds, preventing infection and inflammation.

The antioxidant properties of terpinolene are equally impressive. It protects DNA from oxidative damage by enhancing the antioxidant capacity of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. Studies have shown that exposure of lymphocytes to terpinolene for 24 and 48 hours led to an increase in their antioxidant capacity, highlighting its protective potential at the cellular level.

Recent research has confirmed the anticarcinogenic properties of terpinolene. A 2012 study concluded that terpinolene, found in plants such as sage and rosemary, can inhibit the protein responsible for cancer cell proliferation, slowing or blocking the growth of malignant cells. This discovery underlines the potential of terpinolene in cancer prevention and treatment.

Finally, terpinolene has shown potential in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. It can counteract the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), commonly known as bad cholesterol. The accumulation of LDL in the arteries can lead to cardiovascular problems, and the action of terpinolene could therefore reduce the risk of developing these conditions.
In summary, terpinolene offers a range of medicinal benefits that make it a valuable component in multiple therapeutic applications, contributing significantly to general well-being.

Terpinolene-rich cannabis strains

As mentioned before, the presence of terpinolene in cannabis plants is normally low. However, some strains contain significant levels of this terpene. If you are interested in the therapeutic properties of terpinolene, you might want to check out the following genetics. For further information about available products, visit our website on legal weed. 

Green Crack Auto

Green Crack Auto is the result of crossing between Skunk #1 and Afghani, providing a wide range of flavours and earthy, sweet, citrusy aromas. This sativa-dominant has both mental and physical psychoactive effects, with a predominance of energetic and happy sensations. Medicinally, it is ideal for combating anxiety, fatigue, pain and migraines.

Super Lemon Haze

Widely awarded, this sativa dominant offers an extraordinary feeling of creativity and a motivating and euphoric state of mind. Despite its slight indica component, which provides a calming and relaxing effect, Super Lemon Haze is known for its fruity and citrus aroma with a characteristic freshness of terpinolene. On a medicinal level, it is ideal for treating anxiety, fatigue and depression.

Gorilla

Gorilla is an indica dominant strain with an incredibly powerful physical effect. Its aroma and flavor are reminiscent of fuel with sour and earthy citrus notes. Accidentally created by crossing Chocolate Diesel, Chem Sister, and Sour Dubb, this strain has won several major awards and produces large amounts of resin, making it ideal for extraction lovers.

Sour Diesel

This high-quality and potent sativa-dominant strain is the result of a cross between unknown strains. Developed by New York breeders in the 80s and 90s, Sour Diesel can be physically relaxing or cerebrally stimulating, depending on the user. Its citrusy, sour flavor and aroma linger in the mouth for a long time.

Royal Jack Auto

Descended from Jack Herer, one of the most prestigious strains, Royal Jack Auto is a predominantly sativa that offers a powerful, mood-enhancing effect. Perfect for both partying with friends and relaxing, this strain has a refreshing aroma with hints of incense, spice and pepper. Medicinally, it is excellent as a muscle relaxant.

If you are interested in improving your well-being with natural products, cannabis strains rich in terpinolene may be exactly what you are looking for. To learn more and find the ideal product for your needs, we invite you to visit our page dedicated to CBD flowers and hashish from Maria CBD Oil. You will find a curated selection of products designed to help you reduce stress and improve your quality of life in a natural way.