Fenchol — the cannabis terpene in depth

Fenchol is a monoterpene with molecular formula C₁₀H₁₈O and a boiling point of 201 °C. In cannabis, typical levels are 0.01–0.25 % dry weight. Outside the plant it is found in fennel, basil, cypress, aster, nutmeg. Within the cannabis aroma landscape, Fenchol is an important contributor, dominant in chemovars such as OG Kush, Banana Kush, Skywalker OG, Headband. It shapes overall character via the entourage effect.

fennel, earthy, camphoraceous, slight citrus — Fenchol is a monoterpene that defines its own chemovar signature.

Aroma

Profile: fennel, earthy, camphoraceous, slight citrus. Perceivable from ~0.3 % dry weight. With limonene: citrus-fresh; with myrcene: earthy-spicy.

Occurrence

In cannabis, Fenchol is produced in the trichomes of the flower. It is quantified by GC-MS and appears on modern COAs. Strains rich in Fenchol include OG Kush, Banana Kush, Skywalker OG, Headband. It usually co-occurs with myrcene and caryophyllene — the exact ratios determine the sensorial nuance.

Effect

Preclinically linked to antioxidant and pain-modulating effects; investigated in Alzheimer's models. Evidence: Cummings et al. 2022 (Front Aging Neurosci). 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.