FARNESEN: WHAT IS THIS CANNABIS TERPENE KNOWN FOR?

Terpenes are natural substances in plants that are characterized by a specific aroma and possible medicinal effects. Some of the terpenes are better known than others. Among the terpenes that are relatively new to the terpene scene is farnesene. What is the terpene profile of farnesene? What are its medicinal effects? And in which cannabis varieties can it be found? The answers to these and other questions can be found in this article.

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are the largest group of naturally occurring substances. They are found in almost every plant that has a scent and serve primarily as a repellent against pests and insects. There are more than 150 terpenes in cannabis. Terpenes not only give a specific aroma, but also interact with other compounds found exclusively in cannabis, such as cannabinoids like THC and CBD, and together contribute to the medicinal effects of cannabis.

Cannabis terpene farnesene

Farnesene terpene, also known as alpha- or beta-farnesene, is classified as a sesquiterpene, meaning it contains 3 isoprenoids and 15 carbon atoms. In contrast to myrcene, pinene and limonene, farnesene is a relatively rare terpene that is only found in very small amounts in cannabis. This terpene can also be found in plants and fruits such as :

• apples,
• oranges
• turmeric,
• ginger,
• hops,
• grapefruit,
• cedar wood,
• sandalwood,
• myrrh,
• chamomile.

Research shows that farnesene acts as a protective agent against certain insects, especially aphids. The scent of farnesene not only drives aphids away, but also attracts predatory insects that fight other pests.

Potential therapeutic effects of farnesene

Farnesene is not one of the most common terpenes found in most cannabis varieties, but it has significant beneficial properties and effects. At present, research is in its infancy and is not conclusive. However, animal studies suggest what the potential effects of farnesene might be. Below are some of them.

Antimicrobial effects

According to some studies, farnesene, in collaboration with other terpenes, has demonstrated antimicrobial activity against some serious types of bacteria, such as staphylococcus . Although research in this area is still limited, the idea of using a terpene for this purpose in the human body is undoubtedly fascinating.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Farnasen has anti-inflammatory properties. A study has been conducted to assess the anti-inflammatory properties of valerian essential oil, a large part of which is farnesene. The anti-inflammatory effects of this terpene may also be important for future research due to its ability to suppress allergic reactions.

Anti-cariogenic effects

Certain types of bacteria found in the mouth cause disruption and damage to tooth enamel. Farnesene has recently been shown to reduce the amount of cariogenic bacteria and prevent the development of dental disease.

Supporting digestion

Research has investigated how farnesene can contribute to the destruction of the cell membranes of bacteria found in food. Not only does this terpene reduce harmful gut bacteria, but it also helps with cramps and intestinal inflammation. Some research suggests that it may be beneficial for people suffering from digestive problems. In particular,its antispasmodic effects may relieve cramps in the intestines.

What varieties of cannabis contain the most farnesene?

Few varieties boast a high farnesene content, and even in these varieties the amount of farnesene is very small compared to other terpenes. If you are looking for varieties with a high farnesene content, get one of the following varieties:

• Cherry Punch,
• Titan F1,
• Milky Way F1,
• White Rhino.

Farnesene in cannabis

Farnesene is not the most widely used cannabis terpene, but its therapeutic effects are well worth it. Although not much attention is currently paid to this terpene, we can expect to learn more about it in the future. Indeed, the new F1 hybrid varieties that are gaining popularity contain large amounts of this terpene and the ongoing research into its possible medicinal uses is sure to attract many cannabis enthusiasts.

Find out what the aroma of this terpene is. Visit our e-shop and get your hands on an essential oil containing farnesene!