[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Who’s ready to learn more about terpenes!? We are back with a new series focusing on these incredible compounds found in marijuana and throughout nature. Terpenes have a number of unique attributes and effects, but in general Google defines them as “volatile unsaturated hydrocarbons found in the essential oils of plants, especially conifers and citrus trees”. [/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26727″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]
Lesson in Terpinolene
This week we are looking at Terpinolene. This particular terpene is characterized by having a fresh aroma and flavor with hints of floral, herbal, piney and occasional citrus tones. While often found in tea tree, conifers, apple, cumin, sage, rosemary and lilac, terpinolene is also used to make essential oils and some homemade soaps. When it comes to cannabis, terpinolene is most notably found in Sativa-dominant strains, as opposed to the Indica variety.
Benefits of Terpinolene
Unlike other terpenes that we have discussed in our Cannabis Terpenes 101 series, Terpinolene does not contain anti-inflammatory or analgesic properties. Instead, this particular terpene is praised for its antifungal, antibacterial and sedative properties.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Terpinolene also has several other benefits, which include:
- Slows bacterial growth and spread
- Inhibits the growth and spread of fungus
- Insomnia aid to assist with sleep
- Inhibits cancer cell growth
- Antioxidant to prevent oxidation damage of cells
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”26728″ img_size=”medium” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Given this terpenes connection to tea tree and tea tree oil, it is not surprising that one of its more potent benefits are the antibacterial properties. While this was examined in 1995 using a whole plant, it wasn’t until 2005 when research was done on Diplotaenia damavandica – a plant with 20% terpinolene in its genetic makeup. The result was effectiveness against e coli and several other pathogens, which further proves the benefits of Terpinolene.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]In two separate studies in 2012 and 2013, Terpinolene was found to slow cancer growth by downregulating particular cell proteins. As if that is not impressive enough, a 2005 study also proved terpinolene as an effective treatment for heart disease, which is still one of the leading causes of death in the United States.
Lastly, as mentioned earlier, Terpinolene is also famous for its notable sedative properties (as proven in a 2013 study). This makes it a valuable defense against insomnia and even anxiety as it reduces excitement in the brain. [/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26731″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]
Strains High In Terpinolene
As stated above, Sativa-dominant strains tend to have higher levels of Terpinolene when compared to Indica plants. This is interesting when you consider the sedative properties of this terpene, however it important to note that terpenes are generally 1-2% of a plants makeup as opposed to THC or CBD which can make up 20-30% of a plants cannabinoid compounds.
Some of the strains with higher amounts of Terpinolene are:
Super Jack
This strain is one of the more rare 100% pure Sativa hybrids and is a highly potent combination of Super Silver Haze and Jack Herer. The effects are heavily Sativa and can be overpowering to new users. This strain is excellent for morning medicating as it leaves the user feeling uplifted, motivated and focused with a boost in energy while still leaving you highly functional.
Jack Herer
Easily one of the best-known strains in America, Jack Herer is a Sativa-dominant strain that produces happy, bubbly and euphoric effects that increase energy and help spur creativity. This strain is effective for several mental or neurological disorders such as anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder and migraines.
Arjan’s Haze #3
Designed by crossing Neville’s Haze X Super Silver X Haze X Laos Plant strains, Arjan’s Haze #3 is a Sativa-dominant hybrid. This strain produces a clear-headed cerebral high that leaves the user feeling uplifted, motivated and insanely creative. As the high builds, it leads to a deep introspection that is paired with a creeping body high that results in couchlock.
Pineapple Jack
Another Jack Herer baby, Pineapple Jack combines this potent Sativa with an Indica-heavy Pineapple strain for a balanced hybrid. Pineapple Jack is a moderately potent strain that produces a clear-headed boost in energy, creativity and sociability as well as mood. This strain is ideal for battling stress and managing depression, irritability and migraine headaches.
If you are looking for sedative, antibacterial, antifungal or cancer-reducing properties, make sure to choose a strain high in Terpinolene to get the most out of your next puff![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
