Camphor cannabis terpene: aroma, taste, effect & impact

Camphor is an unusual terpene in cannabis that is notable for its woody, almost medicinal odor. Known from ginger, camphor tree and cypress, it shows promise for vascular protection, skin care and antioxidant processes – especially when combined with THC and other cannabinoids. As part of the entourage effect, it adds refreshing clarity to relaxing strains. Similar terpenes are alpha-pinene, eucalyptol and delta-3-carene.

Camphor: What is it?

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Camphor is a bicyclic monoterpene ketone with a strong, distinctive odor. It has been used externally in traditional medicine for centuries – for example for rheumatism, colds or skin irritations. It is rather rare in cannabis, but can be detected with a targeted terpene profile.

Typical strains with a lot of camphor are Trainwreck, Sour Diesel, Ghost OG or Strawberry Cough.

• Origin: camphor tree, cypress, ginger
• Strong aromatic note, almost medicinal
• Acts via the skin, respiratory tract and blood vessels

Botanical distribution

In Asia, camphor is a traditional natural remedy that has a local circulation-promoting, antimicrobial and cooling effect. In cannabis, it complements strains with an activating component.

Smell and aroma of camphor

The scent of camphor is unmistakable: intense, fresh, slightly acrid – comparable to menthol, but woodier. It gives varieties a “cool forest” character, often associated with freedom of breath and refreshment.

• Aroma: Woody, medicinal, slightly pungent
• Aroma: pine, earth, herbs, cooling
• Mood: clarity, focus, cleansing

Sensual effect

In combination with alpha-pinene or eucalyptol, a strongly clarifying terpene profile is created – popular in varieties for the day or for physical activation.

“Camphor shows antioxidant activity in preclinical studies, which could prove medically relevant in skin and vascular applications.” – Excerpt from the review ‘Natural Monoterpenes and Oxidative Stress’, 2020

Effect of camphor

Medicinally, camphor is used externally to promote blood circulation, relieve pain and as an antioxidant. In cannabis, it may contribute to vascular protection and to calming skin or respiratory problems. Initial indications also point to a possible protective function in psoriasis or eczema.

• Protects blood vessels & promotes blood circulation
• Antioxidant & anti-inflammatory
• Cooling, clarifying, refreshing

Research & application

In combination with vitamin C or E, camphor increases its antioxidant effects. Initial studies show possible applications in the areas of cardiovascular health, skin care and neuroprotection.

Similar terpenes

These terpenes have comparable properties or complement camphor in the terpene profile:

• Alpha-pinene: clarifying, promotes breathing, awakening
• Eucalyptol: menthol-like, promotes concentration
• Delta-3-Caren: cognitive, bone-strengthening, mildly woody

Terpenes?! Where are they actually?

Terpenes can be found on the flower of the cannabis plant. There are (illustrated here for you):

1. Pestles – small threads
2. Trichomes – small balls
3. Terpenes – are inside the small spheres

In fact, the myth of the difference between sativa, indica and hybrid is true. The real effect comes from the terpenes in combination with the cannabinoids (THC, CBD, etc.)

Terpenes in cannabis

A total of over 150 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant. Of these, around 20-30 terpenes occur regularly in relevant quantities and have potential medicinal effects. Find out more about indications (diseases), taste, aroma and effect! What can which terpene do?

• Terpenes in cannabis