Cannabis strains often contain small amounts of this mysterious Terpene which nevertheless significantly affects their aromas, flavors and effects. It also acts directly on the human endocannabinoid system.
Terpineol Chemistry
All of these compounds are made up of isoprene units, which are small five-carbon molecules with C5H8 formula. The smallest group of Terpenes, known as Monoteroenes have only two isoprene units and a total of 10 carbon atoms. Marijuana Terpenes as Pinene, Limonene and Terpineol belong to thos group.
The largest group of Terpenes, called Polyterpenes can have thousands of individual Isoprene units.
The chemichal formula of Terpineol is C5H8O. This Terpene can exist as several different Isomers. Each of these molecules has the same chemical composition but in a different arrangement. These include Alpha-Terpineol, Beta-Terpineol, Gamma-Terpineol, Delta-Terpineol and Terpinen-4-ol. And of this compounds, the most abundant in nature are Alpha-Terpineol and Terpinen-4-ol.
Terpineols are monocyclic Monoterpene tertiary Alcohols: They have a ring-like structure, two isoprene units and an organic hydroxyl alcohol group.
Compared to the most abundant Terpenes in marijuana flowers, Terpineol is very rare but between the five compounds present in this group, Alpha-Terpineol is the most common in various marijuana varieties.
Where to find Terpineol
In marijuana plants, the trichome glands produce Alpha-Terpineol. Specifically, biochemical pathways synthesize this molecule in the glandular trichome cells. This is done through ice and water extraction to extract the trichome heads and make the viscous resin.
The chemical is found in many other plants, such as Pines and shrubs like Oregano and Rosemary. In addition to marijuana, it can also be found in the flowers of the hop plant, which is cultivated to flavor many types of beer.
Terpineol Aroma and Flavor
Terpineol’s flavors and aromas are aromatic notes of Lilac. This aroma is widely used in cosmetic world to formulate perfumes and other products.
When you smoke or vape this molecule, it also releases other flavors with more subtle notes of Pine, Citrus, Lemon and Lime with each puff.
Effects of Terpineol
Working alongside THC, terpineol produces a relaxing and calming effect that soothes muscles and helps keep the mind clear and lucid. And when combined with other Terpenes, it leads to less racing thoughts, moments of tranquility, and temporary relief from worries and mental agitation.
