Borneol — the cannabis terpene in depth

Borneol is a monoterpene with molecular formula C₁₀H₁₈O and a boiling point of 210 °C. In cannabis, typical levels are 0.01–0.3 % dry weight. Outside the plant it is found in rosemary, sage, ginger, camphor tree, valerian. Within the cannabis aroma landscape, Borneol is an important contributor, dominant in chemovars such as Amnesia Haze, K13 Haze, Golden Haze, Silver Haze. It shapes overall character via the entourage effect.

camphor, minty, herbal, cool — Borneol is a monoterpene that defines its own chemovar signature.

Aroma

Profile: camphor, minty, herbal, cool. Perceivable from ~0.3 % dry weight. With limonene: citrus-fresh; with myrcene: earthy-spicy.

Occurrence

In cannabis, Borneol is produced in the trichomes of the flower. It is quantified by GC-MS and appears on modern COAs. Strains rich in Borneol include Amnesia Haze, K13 Haze, Golden Haze, Silver Haze. It usually co-occurs with myrcene and caryophyllene — the exact ratios determine the sensorial nuance.

Effect

Traditionally used for analgesic and calming effect; preclinical neuroprotective signals. Evidence: Almeida et al. 2013 (Phytomedicine). Legal note: in Switzerland, cannabis with ≥ 1 % THC is a narcotic. CBD flowers below 1 % THC are legal; medical cannabis requires authorisation. Effect descriptions are not therapeutic claims.