With a fresh, spicy, invigorating scent, pinene is unmistakable. But if you’re familiar with this abundant terpene, you’ll know there’s more to it than appearances. In this edition of terpene talk, we’re going deep into the woods exploring pinene.
Pinene is part of a molecular family called terpenes. Below, we’ll explain a little more about terpenes. Then, we’ll cover some traits and uses related to pinene specifically.
Ok, so we’ve established pinene’s possible benefits. That’s not this terpene’s only boon, though. Thanks to a phenomenon called the entourage effect, any trait that pinene shares with cannabinoids like THC and CBD will become amplified.
This means that strains with both high CBD and pinene concentrations may possess exceptional anti-inflammatory traits, painkilling properties, and more. As a medical patient, you can use this information to develop the perfect cannabis treatment regimen for you.
Not sure where to start? The next time you stop by your favorite Maryland cannabis dispensary, ask your budtender for help. They can point you towards strains with a cannabinoid and terpene profile that will address your symptoms.
What is Pinene
Pinene is part of a molecular family called terpenes. Below, we’ll explain a little more about terpenes. Then, we’ll cover some traits and uses related to pinene specifically.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes, also known as “terps” to some, are a type of organic compound that exists widely in nature. Plants and animals develop terpenes naturally for countless reasons. Some use them as a deterrent against predators, others use them to form symbiotic relationships, like flowers and bees. These organic compounds are renowned for their aromatic properties. In other words, they have particularly powerful scents and tastes. This trait has made terpenes common flavor-carrying ingredients in food, drinks, and gum. Terpene essential oils are also a core component of perfumes. You can also find terpenes in cannabis plants. In fact, more than 100 terpenes exist in cannabis. One of them is — you guessed it — pinene.Pinene: Effects, Uses, and Traits
Pinene is one of the most common terpenes worldwide. In its natural form, it looks like a colorless liquid. Unlike some terpenes, pinene is flammable in its natural state. As you may have gathered from its name, pinene has a piney scent. It’s an essential ingredient in juniper oil, possessing a sharp, spicy scent. Its aroma makes it a common component in soap, cleaning products, and even air fresheners. Finally, pinene may have several possible medical benefits. They include:- Analgesic (painkilling) properties – pinene may help reduce the intensity of severe or chronic pain.
- Anti-inflammatory effects – much like CBD, pinene demonstrates the ability to reduce swelling. As a result, it may be an effective option for patients suffering from arthritis or Crohn’s disease.
- Anticonvulsant traits – in another CBD similarity, pinene exhibits the ability to soothe patients suffering from uncontrollable convulsions.
- Neuroprotective properties – researchers believe that pinene may help protect the nervous system against degeneration and damage.
Pinene in Cannabis
Ok, so we’ve established pinene’s possible benefits. That’s not this terpene’s only boon, though. Thanks to a phenomenon called the entourage effect, any trait that pinene shares with cannabinoids like THC and CBD will become amplified.
This means that strains with both high CBD and pinene concentrations may possess exceptional anti-inflammatory traits, painkilling properties, and more. As a medical patient, you can use this information to develop the perfect cannabis treatment regimen for you.
Not sure where to start? The next time you stop by your favorite Maryland cannabis dispensary, ask your budtender for help. They can point you towards strains with a cannabinoid and terpene profile that will address your symptoms. 
