Fact Checked by Doctor NameHumulene is a lesser-known terpene found in many cannabis strains. While not as abundant as terpenes like myrcene or limonene, humulene offers its unique benefits.
From a woody, hoppy aroma to potential anti-inflammatory effects, humulene is attracting greater interest alongside other terpenes.
What is humulene?
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Humulene (α-humulene) is a terpene found in cannabis, several plants, and hops. It smells earthy, woody, and spicy.
Sesquiterpenes, like humulene, have 15 carbon atoms (monoterpenes have 10). The chemical structure of humulene lends it potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Humulene accounts for 0.5-1.5% of terpene content in most cannabis strains, so it usually accompanies other major terpenes like myrcene.
The levels can vary across different strains and growth conditions.
Benefits of humulene
Research suggests humulene may offer certain health benefits, primarily associated with its potential as an anti-inflammatory.
Tests in animals indicate humulene can suppress inflammation signaling pathways.
When paired with other terpenes in cannabis, humulene may help relieve conditions worsened by inflammation, such as chronic pain.
The data is still emerging, but humulene shows promise in harnessing the entourage effect. Its earthy, hoppy aroma also provides a pleasant flavor profile.
More research is still needed on how humulene specifically affects the body and interacts with cannabinoids.
Cannabis strains high in humulene
While most cannabis strains contain at least some humulene, certain varieties are especially abundant in this terpene.
Strains noted for high humulene content include:
- White Widow – A balanced hybrid with a piney, earthy aroma
- Death Star – An Indica-dominant hybrid known for sedative effects
- Girl Scout Cookies – A popular hybrid with sweet, earthy notes
- Headband – A sativa-dominant hybrid with diesel, herbal scent
Seeking out humulene-rich strains can be an easy way to tap into this terpene’s potential. However, factors like curing and growing conditions affect terpene levels, so that that experience may vary.
