The lesser-known terpenes in cannabis and their therapeutic benefits

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are a common category of compounds that are found in a huge variety of plant species. They are found in the essential oils of plants and play an important role in their distinct aromas and flavours. But these versatile compounds also contribute to many of the therapeutic benefits of many plant varieties, from lavender and lemons, to peppercorns and rosemary. 

The role of terpenes in medical cannabis

When it comes to the many therapeutic properties of cannabis, cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) understandably tend to hog the limelight. But these are far from the only active compounds found in the cannabis plant. Terpenes are also known to possess a number of impressive properties that can benefit our health. 

Moreover, some evidence suggests that cannabinoids and terpenes may work synergistically to boost the overall effects of cannabis. For example, the findings of a 2024 study indicate that limonene, when combined with THC, could significantly reduce anxiety that can be exacerbated by THC alone.

Among the most common cannabis terpenes are myrcene (also found in lemongrass and hops), pinene (abundant in coniferous trees), humulene (also found in black pepper and hops), limonene (found in citrus fruits and dill) and linalool (present in lavender and coriander). 

But there are many other terpenes to be found in cannabis, albeit often in lower concentrations than their more well-known counterparts. 

Exploring minor cannabis terpenes

There are more than 20,000 known terpenes in the plant world, with around 150 or more being found in the cannabis plant. 

With so many of these compounds, it’s no surprise most of us are only familiar with a handful - and maybe none at all! 

But even minor terpenes may play an important role in the therapeutic potential of cannabis-based medicines. So, let’s explore the properties, including their associated scents and potential benefits, of these lesser-known terpenes. 

Bisabolol

Also known as alpha, or α-Bisabolol, this terpene is found in various plant species, including chamomile, sage and, of course, cannabis. It has a sweet, floral aroma that has helped to make it a popular ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products. 

But while bisabolol is only present in small amounts in some cannabis cultivars, it’s potentially packed with health benefits, including:

• Anti-inflammatory potential: Studies have shown that the terpene may be associated with improvements in atopic dermatitis and eczema.
• Antioxidant properties: Preclinical studies have found that bisabolol has profound antioxidant potential as demonstrated by hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radical scavenging.
• Antimicrobial capabilities: Various bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, Candida krusei, have been found to be sensitive to Bisabolol.

Ocimene 

Ocimene is known for its sweet, herbal, and citrussy scent, which also contribute to the flavours of a number of plants, including basil, mint, and mangoes, which may help them attract pollinators. Its favourable aroma has made it popular in fragranced products, including perfumes, shampoo, and fabric softeners.

Some evidence indicates that ocimene may contribute to the therapeutic properties of the plants in which it is found. For example, ocimene may possess the following benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory: A preclinical study showed that ocimene demonstrated mitigated pryoptosis and inflammation, potentially making it useful in chronic inflammatory conditions.
• Antifungal: One study indicated that cis-β-ocimene’s antifungal potential may make it useful in the treatment of fungal diseases, including ringworm.

Eucalyptol 

As its name suggests, eucalyptol is abundant in eucalyptus, in addition to many other plant species, including camphor laurel, rosemary, and cardamom. Also known as cineole, this minor cannabis terpene gives plants a fresh and herbal aroma.

Eucalyptol is the primary constituent of eucalyptus oil, which has been found to have a wide range of benefits, including: 

• Aids in respiratory health: Studies have found that eucalyptol can help with symptoms of sinus infection and potentially improve inflamed airways in people with asthma and chronic pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Anti-nociceptive: A randomised clinical trial found that patients who inhaled eucalyptus oil experienced reduced pain and inflammation following total knee replacement surgery.
• Improve brain health: Studies have shown that eucalyptol may help lower brain inflammation that may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

Nerolidol 

Nerolidol is another lesser-known terpene that is found in some cannabis cultivars and many other plant species, including ginger, jasmine, lavender, and tea tree. It is a key component in neroli oil, which is derived from better orange blossoms, and its aromas include woody, floral, and citrussy notes.

Studies have revealed that nerolidol may account for the therapeutic effects of many plants, including acting as a:

• Anti-microbial: Studies showed that nerolidol exhibits antimicrobial activity against various strains of Staphylococcus aureu.
• Anti-parasitic: Preclinical evidence suggests nerolidol possesses strong antiparisitic activity, including against malaria, Schistosomiasis, and Leishmaniasis.
• Anti-cancer: In rat studies, nerolidol demonstrates strong anti-tumor activity, reducing the incidence of intestinal neoplasia.

Terpinolene 

Terpinolene is perhaps one of the more well-known of the minor cannabis terpenes. It is usually found in cannabis cultivars in only small quantities but can be found much more abundantly in other plants, including sage, lilac, nutmeg, and cumin.

Many of the plants containing terpinolene have been used throughout history for a wide range of  therapeutic applications. Some studies indicate that some of these benefits may be, at least in part, down to terpinolene. Some potential properties include:

• Antioxidant: Several studies have demonstrated that terpinolene may have a protective role against oxidative stimuli, reducing total oxidant levels in vitro.
• Antimicrobial: Preclinical studies found that terpinolene is active against nine enteric pathogenic bacteria and may play an important role in maintaining intestinal flora balance.

Final thoughts

Cannabis contains a huge variety of active ingredients, many of which have been found to possess therapeutic activity in their own right. 

Many cannabis-based medicines harness the natural power of naturally-occurring cannabinoid and terpene profiles to offer a holistic approach to healthcare. To learn more about our medical cannabis products, or to find out if you could be eligible for treatment, get in touch with one of our specialists today.