Humulen cannabis terpene: aroma, taste, effect & impact

Humulene is a terpene in cannabis with an earthy, spicy hop aroma and anti-inflammatory effect. It plays an important role in the entourage effect and is often found in indica strains– together with myrcene, beta-caryophyllene or linalool. It influences appetite, pain and is even discussed in the field of tumor research. How it works, smells and where it occurs – read here. Back to terpenes in cannabis.

Humulen: What is that?

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Humulene – also known as α-humulene – is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene found not only in cannabis, but also in hops, coriander and basil. It gives beer its characteristic aroma and is also a component of many indica-dominant cannabis strains. In nature, humulene plays a role as a repellent against pests and has medicinal potential.

Typical varieties with lots of humulene are White Widow, Headband, Girl Scout Cookies and Sour Diesel.

• Important terpene in cannabis and hops
• Often contained in indica varieties
• Used therapeutically for inflammation

Botanical origin

Humulene was originally isolated from hops (Humulus lupulus) and is structurally closely related to beta-caryophyllene – but has its own spectrum of effects, which is attracting increasing attention in cannabis research.

Smell and aroma of humulene

The scent of humulene is earthy, woody and reminiscent of hops or forest. Many consumers associate this smell with strongly calming varieties that are often consumed in the evening. The aroma is restrained but deep and conveys an organic, natural note.

• Aroma: hops, forest, earthy-spicy
• Aromatically close to IPA beer or basil
• Typical for indica-dominant strains with a relaxing effect

Sensory profile

Humulene contributes to the depth and “heaviness” of the aroma profile and is often perceived in combination with other earthy terpenes such as myrcene. It is rather subtle but unmistakable – especially in dried flowers.

Effect of humulene

Humulene is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and appetite suppressant properties. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine and is currently attracting attention in cancer research. Particularly interesting: Unlike other terpenes, humulene may have an appetite suppressant effect – making it relevant for patients with weight problems.

• Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial
• Appetite suppressant (in contrast to THC)
• Antioxidant and cell-protecting effect
• Possible use in weight management or tumor therapy

Therapeutic application

Medical research into humulene is still in its infancy. However, initial preclinical studies indicate potential effects on inflammatory diseases, metabolic problems or even cancer cells – in combination with cannabinoids such as THC.

Similar terpenes

The following terpenes have a similar active or aroma profile to humulene:

• Beta-caryophyllene: spicy, anti-inflammatory, binds to CB2 receptors
• Myrcene: relaxing, pain-relieving, earthy-fruity
• Linalool: floral, anxiolytic, sedative

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