Written by Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D.& BCTC Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner The fascinating world of Cannabis. Let’s go into the terpene Alpha Pinene, a fragrant substance that is present in many things during this holiday season, including cannabis. You may be aware of the terpene when you smell pine in the air, Christmas trees and candy canes. But do you know about the impact and therapeutic properties of cannabinoids, terpenes, and craft cultivars? The cannabis plant contains thousands of unique terpene and cannabinoid combinations. While they each have their own advantages, they can work together to create a powerful combination. The most significant factors in determining a cannabis plant's potential are terpenes and cannabinoids. Along with its flavor and aroma, it also has medicinal qualities. Finding the correct cultivar may enhance your quality of life and state of being when they combine in the entourage effect, a molecular synergistic effect. This article will hopefully help. A terpene with the aroma of a fresh, earthy scent reminiscent of an evergreen tree pine forest is alpha-pinene, also known as pinene or spelled -pinene. In addition to cannabis, alpha-pinene is also present in some citrus, parsley, dill, basil, rosemary, and olive kinds. Alpha-pinene has a highly peculiar chemical composition. Enantiomers are the two identical forms that exist. These are identical 3D mirror reflections of one another. You may have come across the terms (+) Alpha-pinene and (-) alpha-pinene while investigating this particular terpene. These two variants of the compound are called alpha-pinene. Beta-pinene is a different member of the pinene family that exists. Although its structure is different, it still smells like fresh evergreen pine. What truly separates Alpha -pinene from Beta -pinene are variations in the sub-types of isomers. It is incredibly similar to how THC and CBD differ from one another. Alpha-pinene potential properties or effects may include:
Encouraging relaxation
Decreasing stress and anxiety
Physical pain relief
Anti-Inflammatory
Bronchodilator (helps open airways)
May help combat short-term memory impairment
Anti-cancer properties
Increases alertness and counteracts some of the ill effects of THC, such as anxiety
You can find Alpha-pinene in cultivars such as:
Jack Herer
Pineapple Express
OG Kush
Vanilla Kush
Blue Dream
Big Smooth
Cannatonic
Strawberry Cough
God’s Gift
Island Sweet Skunk
Harlequin
Kosher Tangie
Remedy
All information in this article is for educational purposes only. The information I've shared is derived from research gathered from external sources. Please check with your Cannabis Educated Primary Health Care Physician or Educated & Trained Cannabis Therapy Consultant before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change. Written by Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D., CTC, CNHP in ECS & Naturopathic Medicine, Cannabis Therapy Consultant, The Founder and Education Director of the Cannabis Holistic Institute. To find out more about her Telemedicine Consultations, Educational Programs, YouTube videos, and other creative content, you can find her on the massive inter-webs on all platforms or at drpepperhernandez.com.