THE'alpha pinene It is one of the many terpenes present in hemp inflorescences. Terpenes are a large class of organic compounds, found in many plants, that give essential oils their characteristic aroma: for this reason they are often used to produce perfumes. In particular, pinene is appreciated for its freshness scent of the woods. But terpenes may also play a role in improving health, as promising new studies have shown and as we will see in this article.
Where is Pinene located?
Alpha pinene, characteristic of the pine aroma as the name itself suggests, is found in many plants that have a “forest” scent: it is found in conifers, in rosemary, eucalyptus and thyme, as well as in cannabis. Pinene is in fact one of the most common terpenes found in marijuana and is also one of the most appreciated!
Alpha pinene is commonly found in essential oils and also in many household and personal care products, from air fresheners to deodorants. In cannabis, pinene is abundant in “fresher” varieties, specifically selected to have an appreciably aromatic terpene profile, even if it is present in all hemp buds in variable quantities: it is one of the aromas that contribute to the particular and unique scent of this magical plant.
Alpha-pinene properties
THE terpenes in plants they arise as a defense mechanism against attacks by insects and parasites: for this reason modern research is re-evaluating the healing potential of these molecules, hoping in the future to create increasingly natural drugs. Here are the properties of alpha pinene:
- According to one study alpha pinene has some antimicrobial properties and is useful for modulating antibiotic resistance for Campylobacter jejuni.
- According to some research alpha pinene contributes to the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis and also has activity as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, promoting the memory. This is thought to balance out one of the possible side effects of THC, which is temporary memory loss. This shows that cannabis compounds often act in a “synergistic” making it a plant with complex healing effects.
- Alpha pinene has antioxidant properties and fights free radicals by reducing oxidative stress, thus also helping to reduce inflammation.
- According to one study, pinene alpha is a positive modulator of GABAA receptors. It acts at the binding site of benzodiazepines and helps to improve sleep.
- Alpha pinene may contribute to reduce the perception of pain interacting with cannabinoid receptors.
- It appears that alpha pinene can increase the concentration of dopamine in the striatal nucleus, giving a feeling of good mood and pleasure.
Research on terpenes is just beginning, however the results of the first studies seem very promising!
What is the difference between alpha and beta pinene?
In cannabis Alpha pinene is more abundant than beta pinene and is responsible for the main benefits as well as the intense aroma.Alpha pinene is recognized by its fresher aroma, with balsamic notes, while beta pinene has a woodier scent, with notes of black pepper and nutmeg.
How to taste pinene?
Pinene both alpha and beta is one of the more volatile compounds of cannabis: in fact it degrades at 156 degrees (alpha) and 163 degrees (beta). This means that to appreciate the healing qualities of this terpene and fully enjoy its aroma it is best take it at low temperature, not through traditional combustion but through specially set inhalers. Alternatively, CBD oil and cannabis essential oil are also rich in pinene.
