Terpinolene — the cannabis terpene in depth

Terpinolene is a monoterpene with molecular formula C₁₀H₁₆ and a boiling point of 186 °C. In cannabis, typical levels are 0.05–1.5 % dry weight. Outside the plant it is found in nutmeg, apple, tea tree, cumin, lilac. Within the cannabis aroma landscape, Terpinolene is an important contributor, dominant in chemovars such as Jack Herer, Ghost Train Haze, Dutch Treat, XJ-13. It shapes overall character via the entourage effect.

fresh, floral, herbal, slight citrus — Terpinolene is a monoterpene that defines its own chemovar signature.

Aroma

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

Occurrence

In cannabis, Terpinolene is produced in the trichomes of the flower. It is quantified by GC-MS and appears on modern COAs. Strains rich in Terpinolene include Jack Herer, Ghost Train Haze, Dutch Treat, XJ-13. It usually co-occurs with myrcene and caryophyllene — the exact ratios determine the sensorial nuance.

Effect

Associated in studies with sedative and antioxidant properties. Evidence: Ito & Ito 2013. 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.