Terpenes like pinene are aromatic compounds produced in the trichomes of the cannabis plant. Pinene is a terpene that is very common in cannabis and smells like a pine forest and pine trees. It is one of the most researched terpenes and contributes more to the experience of a cannabis strain than just the taste. In particular, it is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, it improves attention and memory.
It is assumed that terpenes originated as protection against herbivorous enemies and as a defence against parasites. Apart from cannabis, pinene is also found in numerous other plants, e.g. in organ gene peels, pine needles, rosemary, dill, basil, conifers and parsley.
Terpenes are best extracted by steam distillation or hydrodistillation. This requires a little background knowledge and suitable equipment, as terpenes can be easily damaged and are particularly sensitive to pressure or temperature changes.
Pinene is a monoterpene that occurs in nature in two molecules with the same chemical formula but different structure. These two variants are known as alpha-pinene and beta-pinene. Both have similar effects, but the most common is alpha-pinene, which is found in pine and other conifers, sage, mugwort, eucalyptus, rosemary, thyme, bergamot and in olive oil, among others. Pinene is very common in nature and is often used in perfumes, cosmetics and cleaning products.
If you like vaping and want to enjoy the aroma and medicinal properties, you should pay attention to the temperature at which you vaporise the cannabis. Each terpene or cannabinoid has a specific boiling point. This means that the cannabis has to reach a certain temperature before a corresponding terpene turns into vapour.
The Boiling point of α-pinene is 155-156 ° C. At a higher temperature it is destroyed and can no longer be used.
The medicinal benefits of pinene
As already mentioned, pinene, like many other terpenes, offers numerous medicinal benefits. These are the most important ones researched so far:
- anti-inflammatory
- antimicrobial effects
- gastroprotective
- Bronchodilator (dilates the airways)
- Antioxidant
- improves memory performance
- Makes awake and clear
- Pain relief
Pinene and the effect of a variety
Pinene can surprisingly help determine how a strain's high feels and how strong it is. For this reason, pinene and other terpenes are as important to many cannabis users as the amount of cannabinoids present. In particular, pinene keeps you alert, has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effects. Therefore, strains with a high pinene content are often used for multiple sclerosis, arthritis or Crohn's disease. It is also thought to improve anxiety and enhance the analgesic effects of some strains.
In 2011, Dr Ethan Russo published a research study in the British Journal of Pharmacology called "Taming THC: Potential Cannabis Synergy and Phytocannabinoid Terpenoid Entourage Effects", suggesting that pinene and other terpenes are able to complement cannabinoids to produce unique and interesting therapeutic effects. The Entourage effect states that there is an enhancement and increase in the beneficial properties of different cannabis compounds such as CBD, THC, flavonoids or terpenes when they are combined and work together in the body.
A Study from 2018published in the journal Chemotherapy showed that alpha-pinene can be effective in treating prostate cancer in mice.
Japanese doctors and researchers believe that a walk through a forest area of pines and other tree species can have a relaxing effect on the body and mind. In addition, the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health published a comprehensive review of existing research in 2017. The review found that speculating in the forest lowers blood pressure and pulse rate, and has the potential to reduce stress and improve overall health. Thus, pinene, along with many other terpenes found in forests, may have an indirect therapeutic effect on anxiety. However, further research is needed to understand if and how pinene can directly affect anxiety.
Which cannabis strains contain particularly high levels of pinene?
- Jack Herer by Sensi Seeds: A strain that produces an amount of resin so great that it even stains the leaves and stem. Its effect adds a feeling of lightness, making it seem like you are floating.
- Mokums Tulip by Dutch Passion: The strain produces large amounts of resin, has amazing growth and above average yields. The terpene profile is complex and includes pinene.
- Romulan Ultra by 1000Seeds Genetics: This strain develops a bud in the middle and many rock hard, resinous flowers. Besides the characteristic pine flavour, which we have defined as typical of pinene, grape and mint flavours can also be perceived. Its effect is the classic of an Indica, so much so that it relaxes you and you are ready to go to bed.
- Medikit by Buddha Seeds: MediKit is a feminized strain with an extremely high CBD content. The strain has up to 20% CBD with only 1% THC. It has an aroma like mangoes and pine.
- Chem OG by female Seeds: The smoke of this strain is mild and intense, combining many aromas: the taste of pine, lemon and woody notes. The effect is intensive and long-lasting. It combines a stimulating and happy high with a calming indica effect.
- North Thunderfuck by Royal Queen: the strain has a high that starts slow but hits you hard. Her growth habit is like a Christmas tree and the aroma is earthy with lots of pine tones.