Let's Talk Terpenes - Cedrene | Dispense Magazine

This is the 25th installment in our weekly series, “Let’s Talk Terpenes,” published every Monday. For more information, read the introduction to this series, “Let’s Talk Terpenes: A Guide For Medical Marijuana Patients.”

Todays’ featured terpene is cedrene, a sesquiterpene commonly found in cedar as well as the cannabis plant. As one of the secondary terpenes, it is directly related to camphene and bears similar qualities. Because if it’s versatility, this terpene has been utilized in a variety of ways for centuries. In ancient times, the oil of cedar was utilized as a base for paint. Other civilizations have also distilled the oil from cedar and juniper trees and used it as an astringent and antibacterial. [1] [2]

This terpene has a fresh and somewhat woody aroma, sometimes with a surprising sweetness. Skyrunner and Jet Fuel are strains known to contain this terpene. Understanding individual terpene characteristics can play a key factor in selecting the ideal strain. Whether inhaled or used aromatically or topically, cedrene can be a key component in the broad spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids that maximize the therapeutic effects cannabis may provide.

The majority of research into cedrene’s therapeutic properties involves the terpene’s presence in the oil of cedarwood and similar trees. Additional research on the terpene’s role in cannabis is lacking and would be conducive in identifying the potential medicinal benefits this terpene could offer.

One study found that the combination of cedrol and cedrene has antibacterial and anti-tumor effects. Two separate studies on essential oils containing cedrene have shown effectiveness in eliminating tumor cells in human tissue that could potentially be used as a natural supplement in cancer-fighting medicines. [1]

Research continues in using cedrene as a possible treatment for T-cell cancers, such as leukemia. Studies have shown promising evidence; however, analysis will continue until there exists further conclusive evidence based on actual trials. [2]

As the stigma against medical cannabis continues to fade, hopefully, research and analysis of the plant and the beneficial compounds that comprise it, including terpenes like cedrene, continues to intensify. It’s important to educate yourself and talk with your doctors, pharmacists, and others at dispensaries regarding the terpene profiles in available cannabis strains. Feel free to email us to assist with any questions you may have.

Sources:

[1]: https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/cedrene/

[2]:

https://ionizationlabs.com/the-cannabis-terpene-cedrene/