Ocimene

Ocimene is a terpene found in the essential oils of several plants including cannabis. There are three different isomers of ocimene: alpha-ocimene, beta-ocimene, and gamma-ocimene. Alpha-ocimene and beta-ocimene are the most common and are found in cannabis. Ocimene is known for its pleasant sweet and herbaceous aroma. In cannabis, ocimene is found in varying concentrations depending on the strain. Higher concentrations of ocimene, typically above 0.5%, are thought to contribute significantly to the strain's aroma and flavor. The effects of ocimene are not fully understood, but it may have some anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Ocimene provides cannabis strains with distinctive fruity, citrus, and tropical notes. Prominent strains high in ocimene include Super Lemon Haze, Golden Goat, Strawberry Cough, Tangie, Maui Wowie, Pineapple Express, and Jack Herer. These strains are popular for their uplifting, creative, and euphoric effects as well as their intense flavor and aroma. The sweet and tropical terpene ocimene is believed to have a synergistic effect with other terpenes like myrcene, limonene, and linalool. When combined, these terpenes may enhance the analgesic, anxiolytic, and sedative qualities of cannabis. The uplifting and creative effects of ocimene are also thought to be accentuated by terpenes like pinene and caryophyllene. High levels of ocimene are thought to contribute to the popularity of sativa and sativa-dominant strains. However, some indica strains can also contain significant amounts of ocimene which provides physical relaxation and stress relief along with mental euphoria. The complex effects of ocimene ultimately depend on the overall terpene profile of the cannabis strain. More research is needed to fully understand the medical benefits of ocimene and its role in the entourage effect.