Farnesene — the cannabis terpene in depth

Farnesene is a sesquiterpene with molecular formula C₁₅H₂₄ and a boiling point of 260 °C. In cannabis, typical levels are 0.02–0.4 % dry weight. Outside the plant it is found in apple skin, hops, ginger, sandalwood, gardenia. Within the cannabis aroma landscape, Farnesene is an important contributor, dominant in chemovars such as Sour Diesel, GG4, Dogwalker OG, Girl Scout Cookies. It shapes overall character via the entourage effect.

apple skin, green, woody, slightly floral — Farnesene is a sesquiterpene that defines its own chemovar signature.

Aroma

Profile: apple skin, green, woody, slightly floral. Perceivable from ~0.3 % dry weight. With limonene: citrus-fresh; with myrcene: earthy-spicy.

Occurrence

In cannabis, Farnesene is produced in the trichomes of the flower. It is quantified by GC-MS and appears on modern COAs. Strains rich in Farnesene include Sour Diesel, GG4, Dogwalker OG, Girl Scout Cookies. It usually co-occurs with myrcene and caryophyllene — the exact ratios determine the sensorial nuance.

Effect

Preclinically linked to calming and antispasmodic effects. Evidence: Turek & Stintzing 2013 (Compr Rev Food Sci). 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.