Ocimene Terpene Guide. Smell, Use, Benefits, and Strains

Terpenes are one of the three groups of chemical compounds found in cannabis that influence its effects and smell. In combination with the other two - cannabinoids (THC, CBD, etc.) and flavonoids (mostly responsible for flavor) - they offer a so called entourage effect that varies depending on the content/volume and resulting combination of the compounds.

What is Ocimene Terpene? Ocimene Terpene Smell

Ocimene is a terpene found in cannabis and a number of other plants. It is unstable in the air and nearly insoluble in water but is soluble in ethanol and acetone.

Ocimene has a sweet fruity and citrusy flavor with strong earthy, woody and herbal notes. Its primary use is as a fragrance in the cosmetics industry but it has also shown potential to have health benefits.

What Strains Are High in Ocimene? Where Else is Ocimene Found?

Ocimene is never the #1 predominant terpene in any of the cannabis strains, and it is not as common as Myrcene, Pinene or Caryophyllene, which are present in the majority of the cannabis plants. Ocimene is typically found in sativa varieties of cannabis with energizing effects. Here are the strains with high Ocimene content:

Dutch Treat Haze. Although considered an indica it has pronounced sativa effects perfect for combating fatigue. 

Jack Herer. A well known sativa leaning strain named after a legendary cannabis activist.

Snowcone. A wonderfully energizing and uplifting sativa.

Snowcap. A beautiful sativa flower with a distinct citrusy smell. Great for socializing or just chilling.

Sour Diesel. An overwhelming sativa that has lots of indica properties including severe couch lock.

Clementine. A citrusy sativa-dominant hybrid that is perfect for a wake and bake.

Tangerine Frost. Fruity and citrusy sativa. A smooth boost of creativity and energy. 

And you can visit our Flower section and select strains by prevailing terpenes. 

The Ocimene terpene is also found in a wide range of other plants and their essential oils - hops, basil, mint, mangos, kumquats, bergamot, tarragon, lavender, pepper, parsley, neroli, bigarde, petitgrain, and orchids.

How to Consume Ocimene?

Ocimene has a notoriously low boiling point of 150°F (66°C) so to take advantage of it, you need low burning temperatures.

Ocimene has decongestant properties, helping clear the upper respiratory tract, which is also one of the reasons that strains high in this terpene have been reported to cause coughing when smoked.

Another common way to consume terpenes is through aromatherapy and diffusing essential oils.

Since Ocimene acts as an irritant on the skin and eyes, and can damage your lungs if swallowed, it is best to consult your physician on its consumption, and more particularly its forms. 

Effects and Benefits of Ocimene

It is worth noting that Ocimene works better in combination with other terpenes. There has been some research done on Ocimene to determine its benefits and a lot more is needed but so far studies have shown that this terpene shows potential in the following:

Antibacterial. Prevention and treatment.

Antiviral. Studies of oils high in Ocimene have shown potential in inhibiting SARS-CoV and herpes simplex virus but further studies are needed.

Antifungal and Antimicrobial. In combination with other elements, namely Pinene it has the potential to fight yeasts and molds, namely ringworm or dermatophytosis. It may also help with Candidiasis, Athlete’s foot, and more.

Decongestant. Helping clear nasal passages and expel mucus and phlegm.

Cognitive. Uplifting and energizing effects.

Antioxidant. A study showed that black pepper oil rich in Ocimene has the potential in combating Type-2 diabetes and hypertension.

Natural Pesticide. As insecticide and repellent.

These are just some of the potential benefits discovered in various studies. With more studies being done on terpenes, we can expect to see more practical uses of the Ocimene terpene.