Let’s Talk Terpenes - Delta-3-Carene

This is the 21st 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.”

Delta-3-Carene or carene is a bicyclic monoterpene found naturally in the cannabis plant, as well as the essential oils of plants such as juniper berry, fir needles, and cypress, and is also commonly found in rosemary, turpentine, basil. This terpene displays a sweet, earthy aroma with piney undertones and may often boast a lemon flavor. A few strains that have a high concentration of delta-3-carene include Super Lemon Haze, AK-47, Jack Herer, and Skunk No.1.

These strains are known to cause dry eyes and mouth due to their high concentrations of delta-3-carene. The terpene is well known to remove excess fluid from the body and strains with high concentrations of it are usually those that are responsible for the itchy throat, eyes, and coughing some people experience when smoking cannabis. On the other hand, the positive effects of carene are reported to be euphoria, calm, and enhanced mood.

Collectively with CBD, THC, and other compounds found in the cannabis plant, delta-3-carene may emerge as a part of a prevention and treatment method for osteoporosis and other conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, fibromyalgia, and others.

Research completed in 1989 has shown that delta-3-carene has both anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties. Furthermore, this terpene has been shown to significantly increase the production of proteins needed for both growth and repair. Initially, delta-3-carene increases the protein that causes unspecified cells to become bone cells and roughly a week later, the rate at which calcium was deposited into the bones also increased. This suggests that adding delta-3-carene to the diet through supplementation may have a positive effect on bone health. Interestingly, this study also showed that the medicinal effect was better at a lower dose than at a higher dose,

A new study in traditional Chinese medicine confirmed the efficacy of the essential oil of the Gynura procumbens plant, which is generally used in the treatment of traumatic injuries. This oil contains pinene, carene, and limonene. It was tested on rats to assess its anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects, with impressive results. Each of the three ingredients was able to suppress the induced inflammation, while carene also acted as a pain reliever.

The essential oil of juniper is primarily composed of pinene and carene. A study tested its power to combat fungal infections in clinical settings against strains of Candida, Aspergillus, and dermatophytes fungi which cause infections of the hair, skin, and nails. The antifungal capabilities of juniper oil were obvious, and carene was shown to be an essential compound in this process. The results suggest juniper oil and other essential oils with similar components as beneficial alternatives for dermatophytosis and other types of mycotic infections. Resistance to antimycotic compounds and the limited remedies available advances the pursuit of therapeutic alternatives among plants and these results are promising for more clinical research on terpenes.

When administered in high concentrations, delta-3-carene can act effectively as a central nervous system depressant, possibly aiding with symptoms of depression, stimulating memory and increasing memory retention. This could prove to be a great alternative for everyone, not just for Alzheimer’s patients who may use cannabis to help alleviate their symptoms.

Also found in rosemary, basil, bell pepper, cedar, grapefruit, and orange juices; citrus peel oils from fruits like limes, mandarins, tangerines, lemons, oranges, and kumquats, and turpentine, delta-3-carene is used in cosmetics, fragrances and is widely considered a natural antihistamine. The terpene is also utilized as an insect repellent at the industrial level.

Understanding individual terpene characteristics can play a key factor in selecting the ideal strain. Whether inhaled or used aromatically or topically, delta 3 carene can be a key component in the broad spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids that maximize the therapeutic effects cannabis may provide. Feel free to email us to assist with any questions you may have.