Terpineol – What Is It? All You Need To Know About Terpineol
Terpineol
ˈtərˈpin-ē-ȯl | noun
This group of four monoterpene alcohol isomers occurs naturally in over 150 plants. Aside from the hemp plant, the main form of terpineol, alpha-terpineol, is also found in lilacs, eucalyptus sap, pine trees, and lime blossoms. The potential therapeutic properties of this terpene range from anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial to antioxidant.
“Did you know that Mojito CBD flower contains the rare terpineol terpene known for its potent anti-inflammatory effect?”
“Drinking lime blossom tea that’s rich in terpineol makes me feel relaxed.”
What is terpineol?
People have been using plants rich in terpineol as effective natural remedies for centuries. The lime blossom, also known as the linden flower, is abundant in this terpene and was used in traditional European medicine for common colds, coughs, and flu. In its tea form used for its soft, sweet aroma and health benefits, the lime blossom got the nickname the “nectar of kings.” As researchers investigate the potential benefits of this terpene, folk medicine and the aromatherapy industry continue using it for its perceived qualities.
Everyday uses of terpineol
This terpene may be present in most personal hygiene products like soaps and lotions that emit a gentle lilac aromatic profile. Because of its subtle floral scent, it’s also commonly used in perfumes. If you’ve ever tasted lapsang souchong tea, you’ve experienced terpineol. If you’re not fond of teas, you might have tried it in baked foods where it’s used as a flavoring agent.
What are the therapeutic properties of terpineol?
Research on a-terpineol demonstrates its potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Extensive research, including one 2007 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry and a 2010 study published in Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, stands behind this terpene’s anti-inflammatory properties. In particular, the 2010 study revealed encouraging results for the potential of a-terpineol as a component of new medications for painful and inflammatory diseases.
Antimicrobial effects
One 2012 study published in Anaerobe revealed that this terpene exhibited strong antimicrobial effects against oral bacteria. Based on these findings, researchers recommend using low levels of this terpene mixed with linalool as part of a toothpaste or gargling solution.
Antioxidant properties
The antioxidant effects of this terpene were tested against two other terpenes: carvone and perillyl alcohol. The 2011 study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology revealed that alpha-terpineol showed the strongest antioxidant effects out of the three terpenes. The potential antioxidant properties of this terpene may prove useful in fighting certain diseases.
Which hemp strains are rich in terpineol?
This rare hemp terpene is present in various hemp flower strains. You can find terpineol in a high percentage in the following hemp flower strains:
If you like your hemp CBD concentrates, the Sour Diesel CBD Crystalline is loaded in terpenes like terpineol, humulene, caryophyllene, and nerolidol. This product is nearly 100% pure crystallized cannabidiol highlighted by some of the rarer hemp terpenes.
Final thoughts
Praised for its pleasant subtle lilac aroma with a hint of lime, this terpene offers multiple therapeutic benefits.