Ocimene, a commonly encountered terpene in the world of botany, is an essential component in some cannabis flowers as well as a variety of other plant species such as mint, parsley, pepper, basil, mangoes, orchids and kumquats. This terpene is best known for its characteristic sweet, fragrant, herbaceous and woody notes, which play an important role in natural plant defense and in attracting pollinators such as bees.
Possible uses of ocimene
Ocimene is valued in the perfume and fragrance industry to enrich a variety of products with its distinctive scent. It is used in the refinement of dishes by adding basil, which is rich in ocimene, and is often used in concentrated form in perfumes and fragrances for household products to create scents such as citrus, lavender, mango and other spicy or herbaceous aromas .
Ocimene in cannabis research
In cannabis research and therapy, ocimene is highly valued for its potential medicinal benefits. It is a key ingredient in many essential oils, including lemon balm, and has demonstrated antiviral effects against herpes simplex 2 in studies. Furthermore, antifungal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects have been found in studies with essential oils in which ocimene is the main component.
The characteristic profile of Ocimen
Ocimene, a monoterpene, is found in a wide range of plants including hops, kumquats, mangoes, basil, bergamot, lavender and orchids. It is very popular in the perfume industry due to its sweet, floral and herbaceous aroma profile.
Natural protection from ocimene
In the plant world, ocimene often serves as a natural protection or defense mechanism against harmful elements. It deters pests like aphids that can be harmful to cannabis plants, similar to how mosquitoes are deterred by citrus oils in certain geranium varieties.
Potentials of ocimene
A 2014 study revealed that ocimene, extracted from the flowers of the Citrus Unshiu plant, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the essential oils revealed that ocimene constitutes 5.6% of the oil's composition. These oils have the potential to suppress the production of various inflammatory substances.
Further research suggests that Ocimen may help treat diabetes symptoms. A 2013 study identified ocimene as a major component in black pepper seed essential oils. This oil has been found to have antioxidant properties and may inhibit key enzymes linked to type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
Cannabis strains high in ocimene
Ocimene is found in many cannabis strains, although the concentration varies from strain to strain. Some varieties tend to produce higher than average amounts of ocimene. Note that ocimene is rarely the main component in a strain's terpene profile, but it often appears as the second or third most common terpene. Cannabis strains like Deep Purple, Deep Breath, and Blue Sky are typically rich in ocimene.
