Terpenes 101: Pinene

Introduction and General Overview of Terpenes

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that serve as the building blocks of the distinctive aromas found in many plants, including cannabis. Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in cannabis, each contributing to a strain's unique aroma and potential effects. About 15-20 of those terpenes are regularly found in CBD flower; one of which is pinene.

These compounds are believed to interact with cannabinoids, influencing how cannabis affects the body and mind. This interaction, known as the "entourage effect," suggests that terpenes play a critical role in enhancing the benefits of cannabis, making them a key component in the plant's medicinal properties.

What is Pinene?

Pinene, specifically alpha-pinene and beta-pinene, is one of the most widespread terpenes in the natural world. Alpha-pinene is the more common of the two and is highly regarded for its distinct pine aroma and potential therapeutic benefits. This terpene is not just limited to CBD-rich cannabis, more commonly known as hemp flower; it's also present in other plants like rosemary, eucalyptus, and coniferous trees.

What Does Pinene Smell Like?

The aroma of Pinene is unmistakable—it’s the fresh, crisp scent you encounter when walking through a pine forest. This terpene is abundant in coniferous trees, particularly pines, but it’s also found in herbs like rosemary, basil, and parsley. Citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons, contain Pinene as well, adding to their zesty, invigorating fragrance. Beyond its aromatic appeal, Pinene plays a crucial role in nature, acting as a defense mechanism for plants by repelling herbivores and attracting predators of herbivores. This makes Pinene not just a pleasing scent but also a vital part of a plant's survival strategy.

What Strains Are High in Pinene?

Several strains of CBD flower available at Tweedle Farms are known for their high Pinene content. For instance, Guava Jam is jam-packed with a-pinene, which adds a complex sharpness to it’s otherwise fruity bouquet. Tropical Tempest offers a slightly more subdued but still noticeable Pinene presence. The overall sweetness of the nose is complemented by the fresh scent of pine in this strain.

Not interested in flower? Both of the strains mentioned above are also available as small buds, CBD shake, and even pre rolls. If, however, you’re more inclined to try a CBD wax, you should check out our Pink Runtz wax, which boasts a substantial a-Pinene content.

What Are Some Possible Effects of Pinene?

At Tweedle Farms, we don’t make medical claims for the products we carry, or their constituent parts, so instead of expanding further in this action, we’re going to offer some information from Green Leaf Labs.

This handy chart illustrates some of the peer-reviewed potential effects of many terpenes: