Camphene, a terpene with a musky aroma of pine needles and moist earth, is more than just a fragrance in the cannabis plant. It used to be thought that terpenes were only responsible for the taste of cannabis. But modern research has shown us that terpenes like camphene have enormous medical potential. In this article, we delve deep into the world of camphene and explore its impressive properties and applications.
Camphene: A terpene with diverse properties
Camphene is one of a group of over 150 minor terpenes found in cannabis. It is known for its pungent smell, which is often not perceived as very pleasant. But don't let its smell fool you. Camphene is a powerful antioxidant and has been used in traditional medicine to treat bacterial and fungal infections. It has been proven to be an effective natural remedy for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Camphene in foods and products
In addition to its role in the cannabis plant, camphene also finds uses in various foods, fragrances, ointments, and topical creams. In these products it serves as an additive and flavor enhancer, which underlines its versatility.
Research and medical potential of camphene
Recent research suggests that camphene may be particularly important for lowering blood cholesterol and triglycerides, which reduces the risk of heart disease. A 2011 study revealed this terpene's ability to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, the two leading causes of heart disease. Compared to other terpenes such as linalool, myrcene, pinene and beta-caryophyllene, camphene was found to be much more effective in lowering these levels.
Camphene: Medical benefits without side effects
Medical science is beginning to accept that compounds from the cannabis plant, including cannabinoids and terpenes, have significant medical potential. Camphene offers similar benefits to traditional blood lipid-lowering medications, but without the negative side effects often associated with these agents. The fact that terpenes from cannabis do not have addictive properties is another important advantage.
Future and research on camphene
Although there is still a lot of research to be done before we can understand camphene's full potential, a growing body of research suggests that this minor terpene can also do great things. It is an exciting area in the world of cannabis that still holds many secrets.
Camphene cannabis strains
Camphene, a terpene with a prominent role in the cannabis plant, is present in many strains, although it occurs in smaller amounts than dominant terpenes such as myrcene, caryophyllene and limonene. Camphene is known for its distinctive, fresh and slightly citrusy aroma, which enriches the scent composition of the cannabis plant. For example, in the Ghost Train Haze strain, camphene is one of the main terpenes, while in other strains such as Durban Poison, Tangie and Super Lemon Haze it plays a less dominant but still important role. Similar to other terpenes such as limonene and terpinolene, camphene is crucial to the characteristic aroma profile of cannabis and contributes to the strains' unique, refreshing and slightly spicy scent.
