Camphene cannabis terpene: aroma, taste, effect & impact

Camphene is a rare but interesting terpene that is also found in small amounts in cannabis. It is known for its pungent, fresh, almost menthol-like odor and has been shown in studies to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In the entourage effect, it plays a role in combination with cannabinoids such as THC and contributes to the complexity of certain strain profiles. It is chemically related to pinene, eucalyptol or borneol. Find out all about its smell, effect and possible therapeutic significance here. Back to terpenes in cannabis.

Camphene: What is that?

Nahaufnahme, Cannabisblüte und Terpene

Camphene is a bicyclic monoterpene that also occurs in spruce, fir and camphor tree. It is rarely dominant in cannabis, but can contribute a cooling freshness to the aroma.

• Bicyclic monoterpene with menthol-like character
• Occurs in conifers, rosemary, camphor and cannabis
• Highly volatile and susceptible to oxidation

Camphene in cannabis profiles

Camphene is mainly found in varieties with a spicy, cooling fragrance profile. It enhances the freshness and can create an almost medicinal aroma in combination with pinene, eucalyptol or borneol.

Smell and aroma of camphene

Camphene smells sharp, fresh and slightly earthy-resinous. It is reminiscent of camphor, coniferous wood and menthol – a clear, rather cooling fragrance that is clearly distinct from sweet terpenes.

• Scent: cool, camphoraceous, woody
• Associations: Spruce needle, rosemary, mint
• Ideal for varieties with a medical or clear profile

Sensory significance

Camphene contributes to the freshness of the fragrance profile and is often perceived as “cleansing” or “air-opening”. The terpene is described as pleasantly cool, especially when consumed via a vaporizer.

Effect of camphene

Scientific studies have shown that camphene has antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. It has also been described as cholesterol-lowering and anti-inflammatory – especially in traditional herbal medicine.

• Antioxidant & antibacterial
• Possible cholesterol-lowering effect
• Anti-inflammatory and expectorant

Medical relevance

Camphene is used in traditional Asian medicine to treat bronchitis and respiratory diseases. Its expectorant and antispasmodic properties could be relevant in cannabis strains for patients with respiratory issues.

Similar terpenes

These terpenes are structurally or functionally related:

• Pinene: clear, promotes concentration, expectorant
• Eucalyptol: minty, antibacterial, focusing
• Borneol: medicinal, stimulates blood circulation, relaxing

Terpenes?! Where are they actually?

The terpenes are found directly in the cannabis flower, in tiny structures:

1. Pistils – the fine hairs on the flower
2. Trichomes – shiny resin balls
3. Terpenes – are found in the resin of the trichomes

They significantly influence whether a strain has a more activating or calming effect – depending on the interaction with cannabinoids such as THC or CBD. See also: The sativa vs. indica myth.

Terpenes in cannabis

There are over 150 different terpenes in cannabis – many of them with potential medicinal effects. Camphene is one of the lesser known but promising representatives. Find out more here:

• Terpenes in cannabis