Let’s Talk Terpenes – Ocimene

This is the 13th 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.”

Although concentrations of the monoterpene ocimene vary greatly between cannabis strains, some often produce above average amounts. It’s important to remember that ocimene is seldom the lead component in a strain’s terpene profile, but it often comes in as the second or third most abundant terpene. Strains with ample amounts of this terpene include Dream Queen, Clementine, Golden Pineapple, Green Crack, and Dutch Treat.

Ocimene is a cannabis terpene carrying a sweet, herbaceous, and earthy aroma with hints of citrus. It is a terpene well worth seeking out, particularly if you’re searching for cannabis strains that will yield more of an uplifting and energetic experience. 

While there is a lack of in-depth research on this compound regarding its medicinal benefits, the studies that have been performed yield promising information.

A study published in March 2008 analyzed the antiviral effects of essential oils, where ocimene was the primary ingredient.  Other commonly found cannabis terpenes such as pinene and myrcene were also present, which showed promise in the treatment of the SARS virus.

Research also indicates that ocimene may help treat symptoms of diabetes by inhibiting the spread of key enzymes. In this 2013 study, GC-MS analysis of the essential oils of black pepper seeds revealed ocimene as a key constituent. This oil was shown to have anti-oxidative properties as well as the ability to inhibit key enzymes connected to type 2 diabetes and hypertension.

A 2014 study shows that ocimene derived from the flowers of the Citrus Unshiu plant, a close relative of the mandarin orange, had extremely effective anti-inflammatory properties. A chemical composition analysis of the essential oil of the flowers was performed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for this study.

The study revealed that ocimene made up 5.6% of the oil’s chemical constituency. The study also found supporting evidence that these oils have the potential to suppress the production of several different inflammatory substances emitted by the immune system.

Ocimene can be found in a wide variety of plants including hops, kumquats, mangoes, basil, bergamot, lavender, orchids, pepper, and a host of other plants. In the perfume industry, ocimene is commonly used for its aromatic profile.

Understanding individual terpene characteristics can play a key factor in selecting the ideal strain. Whether inhaled or used aromatically or topically, ocimene 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.