Floral, sweet, and woodsy, the ocimene terpene is one of the most enchanting compounds found in cannabis. Though it doesn’t get the well-deserved praise other terpenes enjoy, like the popular myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene terpenes, it’s worth getting to know.
Along with its incredible fragrance, ocimene may produce a range of intriguing benefits, so if you’ve been curious to try an ocimene-rich cultivar, you’ve come to the right place. Learn about ocimene’s role in cannabis and get all your questions answered, including:
- What does ocimene smell like?
- How does ocimene make you feel?
- What are ocimene’s potential benefits and effects?
- What strains are high in ocimene?
…and much more! By the end, you can see what all the fuss is about so you can head to your nearest Green Goods for a taste of the ocimene terpene.
What Is Ocimene?
First, ocimene is a terpene. Terpenes are the aromatic “essential oils” that give each strain its characteristic scent, flavors, and some effects. However, if citrusy limonene and resinous pinene are instantly recognizable, the ocimene terpene is harder to pin down—its unusual blend of aromas can make it easy to confuse with other terpenes.
There are not one but three major types of ocimene: one alpha ocimene (or α-ocimene) and two beta (or β-ocimenes): cis-β-ocimene and trans-β-ocimene. Though all of them are found in cannabis, it’s very rare that ocimene and its types are the dominant terpene in any given strain. You’ll typically see it as a supporting player alongside such stars as linalool and, the most abundant of all, myrcene.
Like all terpenes, ocimene is produced and secreted by the trichomes, the tiny, mushroom-shaped glands that appear as a fine silvery “dust” on cannabis flower. They also produce cannabinoids such as THC and CBD and are commonly referred to as the plant’s “medicine factories,” playing a crucial role in the overall ecosystem of the plant. Terpenes partner with our bodies through the endocannabinoid system, a vital regulatory network that helps control such functions as memory, immune function, pain response, and more.
What Does Ocimene Smell Like?
Ocimene delivers a complex aromatic profile that can develop in different ways. Think of it like this: If you combine orchid and sandalwood with sweet mango, you’ll have a good idea of what this terpene smells like and just how far-ranging its notes can be.
However, despite its mosaic of scents, ocimene usually produces stronger woodsy, floral, and sweet aromas over citrus, black pepper, or lavender, which are more noticeable in the other major terpenes.
Ocimene Is Everywhere
Though ocimene rarely takes a starring role in cannabis, it’s one of the most common terpenes in the natural world, making it an important component in many household and cosmetic products, including perfumes, colognes, soaps, shampoos, fabric softeners, antiperspirants, and other household goods we use all the time.
Many herbs, fruits, and flowers contain ocimene, and you can find it most abundant in:
- Citrus fruits such as orange, kumquat, and bergamot
- Flowers such as orchids and lavender
- Herbs such as parsley, mint, basil, and tarragon
- Spices such as pepper, bay laurel, and allspice
The name ocimene derives from “ocimum,” which means “basil” in Latin—fitting for a terpene with such an incredible bouquet.
Ocimene’s Role in Cannabis
As far as we humans are concerned, terpenes are simply the source of the cannabis’s captivating blend of flavors and aromas. But in the microcosm of the cannabis plant, they serve a range of crucial functions, from attracting pollinators to warding off pests, fungal infections, and other threats to the plant’s health and well-being. In particular, ocimene is effective in deterring aphids—an insect that can wreak havoc on cannabis crops.
Among other factors, cannabis relies on a healthy environment with good-quality soil, adequate sunlight, and the proper humidity levels for its terpenes to fulfill their essential roles as the plant grows.
Ocimene’s Potential Benefits and Effects
There’s much more to terpenes than their flavors and scents, and ocimene is no exception. As folk healers have known for eons—and modern research is slowly proving—terpenes can impart a wide range of effects over and above their sensory ones.
What are some of ocimene’s studied effects? Get ready, there’s a bunch:
- Ocimene may impart an anti-inflammatory effect, soothing inflamed muscles, and other tissues without sedation.
- Like the cannabinoid CBD, ocimene has been identified as having anti-seizure effects, suggesting it might one day support treatment.
- Ocimene appears to be a powerful antifungal agent. This suggests a potential use in the treatment of certain wounds, the fight against intestinal infections, and protecting foods against spoilage.
- One study suggests that the ocimene terpene may function as an antiviral and may be effective against pathogens like the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and SARS.
- Some studies suggest ocimene acts as an antioxidant, inhibiting the growth of enzymes that cause diabetic symptoms and even potentially acting as an anti-tumor medication.
More research must be done to grasp the full scope of ocimene’s effects and benefits. However, with the current studies, it may be an incredibly effective compound you’d want to save for a rainy day.
How Does Ocimene Make You Feel?
Ocimene’s effects extend beyond the medical. One 2011 study found that the ocimene terpene can act as a stimulant—though to what extent is still not fully understood. That said, ocimene may contribute to the uplifting effects of sativa-like strains such as Jack Herer, Dutch Treat, and Green Crack.
Strains High in Ocimene
It’s rare that ocimene is the dominant terpene in any one cannabis strain. More often, it’s a supporting player, rounding out the sensory profile behind such stars as humulene, linalool, and pinene. However, there are a few cannabis varieties known to have reasonably high levels of ocimene.
Amnesia
With an average THC content of around 19%, this zesty sativa can impart serious uplift and creative spark, according to some users. The aromatic profile—reminiscent of earth, tobacco, and mint—is a result of the terpenes terpinolene, caryophyllene, and ocimene.
Ultimate Purple
An indica-leaning hybrid favored for its euphoric and couch-lock effects, Ultimate Purp is a cross between heavyweights The Purps, Purple Urkle, Granddaddy Purple, Grape Ape, and SR71. Its aroma and flavors may remind you of pepper, grape, and pine with some mysterious floral undertones.
Durban Dream
An offshoot of the blockbuster Durban Poison strain—one of the world’s most renowned sativas—this sativa-dominant hybrid typically clocks in at an impressive 27% THC. For some, Durban Dream has become the top choice for boosting moods and inspiring creative energy and inspiration.
Super Lemon Haze
Another sativa-leaning hybrid, Super Lemon Haze is loved for both its sweet, citrussy flavor profile and the thick dusting of trichomes that regularly coat this strain’s potent buds. As one would expect from a member of the Haze family, the effects may trend towards the energizing and activating side, so it may be an excellent choice for either a night out dancing or when on a day hike.
Super Gremlin
If you’re looking for seriously loud terps, just take a whiff of Super Gremlin. With aromas of pungent pepper, diesel fuel, and undertones of sweet sherbet, this potent indica can really sneak up on you—no shock, given an average THC content of around 27%. Sometimes described as “heavy-handed,” once you hit this strain, you may never want to leave the couch again.
Explore Ocimene-Rich Strains and More at Green Goods
Some terpenes are straightforward and easy to find, but ocimene can be a bit elusive. With an unusual blend of sweet, floral, and woodsy notes, it’s one alluring terpene rich in potential benefits.
Want to experience the delightful aromas of the ocimene terpene for yourself? You’re in the right place! Check out our Super Lemon Haze carts if you’re in Minnesota, or some frosty Durban Dream flower for our customers in Maryland. Or stop by and ask our team to help you find products rich in ocimene.
Ready to take your cannabis knowledge to the next level? Check out our cannabis blog, where you’ll find more informative articles, including a deep dive into myrcene, the “mother of all terpenes,” and a look at the spicy caryophyllene terpene.
Have any other questions about the ocimene terpene, ocimene’s effects, or any other cannabis-related topics? Just ask one of our friendly budtenders or drop us a line—we’re always here to help!
