Humulene Terpene: Strains, Effects, and Benefits

Terpenes are compounds found in various plants that are responsible for the various smells and effects. 

What is Humulene Terpene? 

Humulene (pronounced hyomiuleene) also know as α-humulene or α-caryophyllene is a terpene commonly found in cannabis, that has the following formula - C15H24. Not to be confused with β-caryophyllene, which is a close “relative”. 

Humulene Smell and Flavor

Humulene is the terpene that brings together marijuana and beer. It is responsible for providing earthy, woody, spicy, and herbal aromas. 

What is Humulene Found in?

The name of the terpene itself came from hops (Humulus lupulus) whose essential oils are abundant in it, containing up to 40% of humulene.

It can also be found in various types of wood, pine trees, tobacco, sage, clove, basil, ginseng, ginger, black pepper, and of course cannabis, where it contributes to that distinct earth and wood, which we call pungent.

Humulene Effects and Benefits

As is the case with cannabis and cannabinoids, terpenes require further studies, with more and more being conducted every year, although humulene has been studied more extensively than other terpenes.

Humulene is easily absorbed by the human body, either through oral, aerosol or topical consumption.

Humulene has shown promise in various areas that could benefit our health and well-being. It may have anti-inflammatory properties, which in turn will help with Arthritis, and other diseases. Humulene could also fight tumors and cancer cells.

The entourage effect of humulene and other chemicals found in cannabis could be great for weight-loss, due to its appetite suppressing properties. In this regard it is similar to the THCV cannabinoid.

It could also act as an antihistamine, i.e. help combat allergies. Humulene also shows potential as an antibacterial. 

Humulene is not only beneficial for people, it also a natural pesticide, meaning it helps the cannabis plant fight off pests as well as fungi. These properties also mean that humulene could be used against dengue fever and malaria.

What Strains Are High in Humulene?

Strains with high humulene content are similar to those rich in β-caryophyllene and they include the following:

Sour Kush. Euphoria inducing hybrid that leans towards sativa effects.

GSC formerly Girl Scout Cookies. An uplifting hybrid that provides immense body high.

White Walker Kush. A cross between White Widow and Skywalker Kush, that is nostalgia mixed with modern.

Super Lemon Haze. Award-winning hybrid with amazing appearance and smell.

Headband. Potent 3-way cross of OG Kush, Master Kush, and Sour Diesel.

OG Kush. Classic indica with clear-headed high. 

In Conclusion

We hope this overview of the Humulene terpene has been helpful and don’t forget to check out our latest feature in the Flower section that allows you to sort strains by predominant terpenes.