Know Your Cannabis: Pinene

To wrap up the Know Your Cannabis: Terpenes series, Pinene!

Pinene is the most abundant terpene in nature found in everything from pine, spruce and rosemary to lime and orange peel. In cannabis, it is known for the fresh pine scent and flavor, reminiscent of a Christmas tree. Pinene used in insecticides, as a flavoring agent and potentially as a biofuel in spark-ignition engines.

Pinene, like other terpenes, plays a significant part in the entourage effect. It can increase the euphoric feelings THC causes while also slowing the breakdown of certain neurotransmitters to increase attention and alertness. Pinene also acts as a bronchodilator, relaxing the muscles in the lungs and widening the airways. This can allow for better absorption of the cannabinoids and terpenes when smoked or inhaled.

Recent research has shown that pinene, specifically alpha-pinene, may be beneficial in treating Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and memory loss. Studies have also demonstrated that pinene could be effective in reducing tumors. Like many other terpenes, pinene has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Many report that strains high in pinene help with anxiety and depression.

Check out your local Consume dispensary for pinene dominant strains like Jack Herer, Harlequin, Kosher Tangie, Blue Dream and more!

To learn more about terpenes, check out our Know Your Cannabis Classes!