Terpinene is the name given to a group of 4 isometric hydrocarbons classified as monoterpenes and is found in some common cannabis strains.
Alpha-terpinene (a-terpinene) can be isolated from sources like cannabis plants. It can also be found in marjoram, cardamom, and tea tree oil, and gives it some of its antioxidant properties. A-terpinene has flavoring and perfume properties, but it is mainly used to give a pleasant scent to industrial fluids. Cannabis strains high in a-terpinene are Sentinel and Warwick#1
Beta-terpinene (β-Terpinene) is widely used in cosmetics as well as many household items like laundry products and air fresheners. Though has no natural source, it can be derived from sabinene, another monoterpene found in carrot seed.
Gamma-terpinene (γ-terpinene) has a strong lemon odor and can be seen used in a variety of commercial products ranging from food item pharmaceuticals to perfumes and tobacco. This can be found in natural sources like coriander oil, lemon oil, cumin oil, celery, cinnamon, cloves, cumin seeds, ginger, pepper, and tea. It has been noted to have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and in a 2021 study it has shown great progress in effectively blocking the receptors involved with binding of the covid-19 virus. You can find it in strains like ChemDawg, Sour Diesel, and OG Kush.
The last in this group is Delta-terpinene (δ-Terpinene) also known as Terpinolene. Found in sources like Cumin, nutmeg, and lilacs. It has a complex scent that can be a mix of floral and citrus notes and has a relaxing effect that makes it a good choice for those suffering from anxiety or insomnia. Cannabis strains high in this terpinene are: Dutch Treat, Jack Here, Ghost Train Haze, Golden Pineapple and Orange Cookies.
All these fantastic attributes make terpinene one of the most versatile terpenes that have been studied to date, and with more studies planned, this fragrant lemon/limey scented terpene could hold even more beneficial properties just waiting to be discovered.
Written By: Garnet Skinner, CTE.
CHC Halifax, NS.