Alpha-Pinene and Beta-Pinene are two terpenes commonly found in multiple strains of CBD and marijuana. Alpha-Pinene is also abundant in olives, rosemary, sassafras, and bergamot, while Beta-Pinene is found in hops and cumin. Strains with abundant amounts of Alpha-Pinene and Beta-Pinene have a pronounced piny, woodsy, aroma and taste. And as the name indicates, these terpenes give pine needles that strong and unmistakable odor. When you think of the characteristic smell of a Christmas tree, you’re actually recalling the aroma of Alpha-Pinene and Beta-Pinene. And, if you’ve had orange peel candy, munched on pine nuts, or enjoyed a slice of key lime pie, you’ve tasted this terpene.
Alpha-Pinene and Beta-Pinene are both clear, colorless, and used as solvents to dissolve other chemicals. Turpentine, with its pungent aroma, is rich in pinenes. Beta-Pinene is commonly used in fragrances, essential oils, and it also can serve as a preservative.
There is some indication that Alpha-Pinene and Beta-Pinene have multiple benefits for people. One study concluded that these “terpenes have antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antiallergic properties.” In addition to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, Alpha-Pinene may help with memory.
Although more research needs to be done, current evidence indicates that Alpha-Pinene functions as “an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor aiding memory,” which “could counteract short-term memory deficits induced by THC intoxication.”
The site trueextractslab.com also states, “In addition to aiding general memory retention, a study conducted by the Journal of Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry also found that the compound may prove to be a highly desirable therapeutic agent to prevent amnesia-inducing diseases liked vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s.” There is also some evidence that these terpenes open up the airways, thus reducing the effects of asthma, and may exert a protective function on the gut by reducing gastric acid and lesions.
Although lots of praise has been heaped upon the duo pinenes, the reality is that more robust, carefully controlled experiments need to be conducted to verify the myriad of claims.
Both of these pinenes are found in specific cannabis strains, including Jack Herer, Dutch Treat Romulan, Blue Dream, Shark Shock, Island Sweet Skunk, Pineapple Express, Strawberry Cough, OG Kush, Cannatonic, Grape Ape, and Harlequin.
If you’re in doubt as to whether or not your ganja contains these pinenes, just follow the recommendations of that lovable animated bird and proclaimer of Froot Loops, Toucan Sam, and just “follow your nose!” If the strain has a deep, resinous, piny scent, chances are Alpha-Pinene and Beta-Pinene are waiting to join the entourage party.
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