Terpinol or alpha-terpinol, a common terpene in cannabis flowers, is known for its complex aroma profile that includes citrus, woody, floral and pine notes. Strains with high levels of terpinol tend to produce uplifting effects when consumed. Terpinol is also found in other plants such as apples, lilacs, nutmeg and caraway.
General information about the terpene terpinol
The cannabis plant, a master of alchemy, produces hundreds of cannabinoids and terpenes. Some, like THC and CBD, are known well beyond the cannabis community, while other terpenes, including the woody pinene and the citrusy limonene, have only recently entered the mainstream cannabis lexicon. They help define the characteristic aroma and taste of cannabis.
Terpinol, often a silent companion, is present in many cannabis strains, but usually only in small amounts. It can be considered one of the least common terpenes, usually only a supporting player in a cannabis strain, but by no means unimportant. Terpinol plays an essential role in shaping the taste and smell of many strains and likely also influences their therapeutic and experiential properties.
Effect of terpinol
Cannabis strains with moderate levels of terpinol tend to have an uplifting effect on the body while calming the mind, which can allow the user to concentrate better.
Aroma and taste of terpinol
Terpinol's aroma is more varied than some other cannabis terpenes. Linalool smells floral, limonene smells citrusy and pinene is reminiscent of pine. Terpinol, on the other hand, offers a full range of smells found in cannabis: pine, flowers, herbs and even a hint of citrus. A commonly used word to describe terpinol's aroma is "fresh," which explains why it is often used as an additive in soaps and perfumes.
In addition to its presence in cannabis, terpinol is also found in lilac, tea tree, nutmeg, caraway and apples.
Possible effects and benefits of terpinol
A 2005 study suggests that terpinol in essential oils may have antibacterial and antifungal properties, which, in addition to its fresh scent, is another reason for its frequent use in soaps and detergents. Further research shows that terpinol may also be effective against pests such as mosquitoes and weevils.
Current studies are also looking at terpinol's potential to reduce the risk of heart disease when used with other nutrients, as well as its possible role in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
Note that research on terpinol is still ongoing. Many scientists believe that terpenes and cannabinoids work together to produce the overall effects of a strain. Therefore, one should not expect a strain containing terpinol to necessarily have relaxing and sedative properties.
Cannabis strains high in terpinol
Terpinol-dominant marijuana strains are not easy to find because terpinol, a terpene with a citrus-like scent, is usually only found in small amounts. Only about one in ten varieties is known to be terpinolene dominant. From these high terpinol strains, one can expect an uplifting effect with a slightly floral taste and smell. Medicinal cannabis strains high in terpinol, such as Super Lemon Haze and Jack Herer, are popular for their therapeutic uses.
