Discovering the herbal terpene, the Pinene Terpene
If you love fresh and herbal aromas in marijuana, you should know that most of these fragrances are due to a compound called pinene terpene. Pinene is an aromatic terpene commonly found in the essential oils of coniferous trees such as pine. This compound provides aromas with a strong herbal character and has many uses in different industries. The best thing about these aromatic compounds is the therapeutic properties they seem to offer. In today’s article, we will tell you about the benefits of pinene and introduce you to some strains of marijuana seeds rich in this compound.
What is pinene terpene?
The terpene pinene is a volatile organic molecule, belonging to the terpene family, which can be found in a multitude of plants and trees, such as pine, rosemary or in the trichomes of Cannabis.
Terpenes are hydrocarbon compounds built from repeating isoprene units, a five-carbon structure. Terpenes can be classified according to the number of isoprene units they contain. In the case of pinene, it is a monoterpene, composed of two isoprene units (C10H16). This basic structure can present different spatial arrangements, giving rise to its alpha and beta isomers.
In nature we find two structural isomers of pinene: alpha-pinene and beta-pinene. These are chemical compounds that have two different structures, giving them slightly different properties. The most common isomer of pinene in marijuana plants is alpha-pinene.
Alpha-pinene and beta-pinene have the same molecular formula, C10H16, but differ in the arrangement of their atoms. This structural difference affects the way they interact with other compounds and with the human body.
- Alpha-pinene: Alpha-pinene, for example, is known for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, which can help improve memory and concentration. In addition, alpha-pinene has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it valuable in natural medicine.
- Beta-pinene: On the other hand, beta-pinene, although less common in marijuana plants, also offers therapeutic benefits. This isomer is known for its expectorant and bronchodilator properties, helping to open the airways and facilitating breathing. Both isomers, when combined with other terpenes and cannabinoids present in marijuana, contribute to the entourage effect, enhancing the therapeutic benefits of the plant.
Pinene is one of the most widespread terpenes in nature and can be found in a multitude of plant species.
What does pinene taste like?
Terpenes are, together with flavonoids, partly responsible for the flavor and aroma in marijuana plants. One of their main characteristics is their particular aroma and flavor. Thus, the aroma and flavor of alpha-pinene may be more similar to rosemary essence or pine resin, while beta-pinene shares more organoleptic characteristics with dill, basil or parsley.
What are the benefits of pinene?
Pinene is the main ingredient of many essential oils, but it is also used in the production of perfumes and deodorants because of its herbal flavor. It is widely used in aromatherapy and cosmetics, as it is found in rosemary, orange peel, tea tree and eucalyptus. In addition, it has therapeutic benefits, a study conducted in 2015 by a Chinese University gave pinene antitumor capabilities, so this terpene still has a lot to say as far as its therapeutic properties are concerned.
Pinene, as mentioned above, is a monoterpene, so it is suitable for inhalation, which is why it is used for the treatment of respiratory tract infections. It is also very effective and its therapeutic effects can be felt after inhalation. After its absorption, only 4 to 6% of the amount consumed is found in the blood. Therefore, it is a very innocuous compound. Some of the benefits of pinene are the following:
- Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects.
- Bronchodilator properties.
- Antimicrobial effects.
- Gastroprotective properties.
- Antiproliferative activity.
- Antioxidant properties.
In addition to these benefits, pinene is a terpene that plays a very important role in regulating what is known as the entourage effect of marijuana. In fact, this terpene is able to modulate the psychoactive effects of THC, such as anxiety or memory loss, using the existing synergy between cannabinoids and terpenes. Thus, a THC-rich strain with the presence of terpene will affect our short-term memory less than one without the presence of this terpene.
This explains how marijuana strains produce different psychoactive effects, not only because of other factors, but also because of the terpene profile of each strain. Some terpenes promote activity, while others are better for stress relief or insomnia. For example, while myrcene terpene is popular for its sedative effects, pinene is known to increase your alertness levels.
Marijuana with pinene terpene
Once analyzed the benefits of pinene it is time to examine the strains of Cannabis with high content in this terpene. Here is a selection of marijuana seeds from the best seed banks available in our store, all of them with large amounts of pinene.
Mint Milano
Mint Milano is a specimen with a high pinene content, it is a feminized variety of The Cali Connection bank with a very high quality. It has an Indica dominance and does not grow too much, being a very suitable variety for SCROG. Its perfume is clearly minty, coming from Nepalese genetics and its high concentration of pinene terpene.
OG Kush
If we want to enjoy the benefits of pinene and at the same time feel very powerful psychoactive effects, the OG Kush is the best option. Another of the strongest points of this variety is its strong complex flavor, exquisite, with lemony and herbal touches. It reaches24% of THC and 75% of Indica genetics and is perfect for supercropping and multiplying the already high production.
Durban Poison
Sativas are also gaining ground in pinene strains. Thus, Durban Poison has South African genetics that promise energetic highs with considerable THC content.
Durban strains are the most famous Sativas from Southern Africa, highly prized by collectors because they have hardly changed since their discovery. This is one of the best options for those who are looking for 100% pure Sativas.
Durban Poison stands out for enjoying the herbal aroma in marijuana without the extreme Indica relaxation. In fact, this variety is suitable for day-to-day actions that require a certain amount of concentration.
If you liked this article about the wonders of pinene terpene, we recommend you to read about the most delicious marijuana ever created. And if you have been left wanting more topics, we suggest you have a look at TOP 5 Skunk strains.
Founder of Experiencia Natural, creative and entrepreneur, designer, master in grower and marketing. For a normalization of all plants and substances, giving priority to patients and users.
