Terpenes in cannabis do not play a direct role in the plant's growth or reproduction, but plants do invest resources in producing them to manage stress and improve their survival chances. These volatile compounds defend plants against various pests. Some terpenes, like humulene, pinene, and eugenol, are toxic to certain insects, while others, like limonene, can repel pests and prevent aphids from laying eggs.
Terpenes also protect plants from abiotic stress factors, such as temperature fluctuations, drought, and UV radiation. By producing these phytochemicals, plants create a defense against these elements.
Additionally, terpenes allow plants to communicate with their environment, sending chemical signals to nearby plants to warn them of predators or pests, prompting them to increase their own defense production. In some tree species, terpene emissions can even influence climate patterns when released into the atmosphere.
What is humulene and how does it work?
Humulene is a terpene with a distinctive aromatic profile: earthy, woody, and slightly spicy. It has very low water solubility in its natural form. This terpene adds savory notes of earth, wood, herbs, spices, and hops to buds.
One of the most notable characteristics of humulene is its anti-inflammatory ability. According to a 2007 study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology, humulene showed significant anti-inflammatory activity when administered to mice, similar to the effects of dexamethasone, a potent anti-inflammatory drug.
Physical effects of humulene on the body
Each terpene in cannabis offers different effects, and one of the most intriguing effects of humulene is its ability to suppress appetite. Unlike other terpenes like myrcene, which are often associated with increased hunger or what is commonly known as "the munchies," humulene has the opposite effect.
Additionally, humulene's anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties have led to further studies on its potential use in therapeutic products. A study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology highlighted that humulene, along with other terpenes, showed positive effects in fighting bacteria and fungi, suggesting its possible use in medicinal applications for minor infections or as a co-agent in topical products.
The role of humulene in the "entourage effect"
Humulene does not act alone. Terpenes in cannabis work together with cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) to enhance or modify the plant's effects. This phenomenon is known as the "entourage effect."
In the case of humulene, its combination with terpenes like caryophyllene, which also has anti-inflammatory properties, can increase the therapeutic benefits of certain cannabis strains.
For example, when combined with THC, humulene may balance some of the psychoactive effects of the cannabinoid, providing a more calming and less anxious experience for the user. This is particularly useful in medicinal contexts, where patients seek relief from pain or inflammation without experiencing the intense side effects associated with THC.
Cannabis strains rich in humulene
Some popular strains with high humulene content include:
- Girl Scout Cookies: Known for its mix of euphoric and relaxing effects, this strain also contains humulene, contributing to its ability to relieve pain without causing excessive appetite.
- Sour Diesel: A strain famous for its fuel-like aroma and ability to provide mental energy, but which also has an earthy profile thanks to humulene.
- White Widow: Known not only for its potency but also for its calming earthy profile, influenced by humulene.
Where is humulene found?
Humulene is not a monoterpene but a "sesquiterpene." This means it has one and a half times more atoms in its molecules than regular monoterpenes. Sesquiterpenes tend to have stronger odors and be chemically more diverse than other terpenes.
In addition to cannabis plants, humulene is present in hops, especially in the flower used to flavor beer. The characteristic taste of hoppy beers comes from humulene. It is also found in spicy ginger and ginseng.
Other spices or plants that contain humulene include basil, coriander, cloves, sage, black pepper, and balsam fir. The semi-bitter, crisp flavor of humulene contributes to the complex flavors and smells of these spices and plants, as well as some cannabis strains.
Preserving terpenes in cannabis
Humulene is also known as α-caryophyllene because it shares the same chemical formula as β-caryophyllene. Although both molecules have similar aromas, their structures are different, leading to distinct actions. Unlike beta-caryophyllene, humulene does not bind to cannabinoid receptors.
While cannabinoids do not evaporate, terpenes can be destroyed during the curing and storage of cannabis flowers. To preserve them after harvest, it's essential to control temperature, light, oxygen, and humidity.
Terpenes can begin evaporating when exposed to temperatures between 22 and 35 degrees Celsius. Humulene, in particular, has a boiling point of approximately 198°C, meaning it will begin to evaporate and release its aroma when the temperature reaches that level.
Is humulene the future of terpenes in cannabis?
As research on terpenes progresses, it is clear that humulene holds an important place, especially in medicinal use. This focus on wellness aligns with the growing demand for cannabis products based on specific terpene profiles that offer more controlled and beneficial effects.
Humulene has already shown to be useful in managing pain, inflammation, and anxiety, but as cannabis science progresses, more uses for this terpene are likely to be discovered.