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Humulene
α-Humulene
Pronounced: HYOO-myoo-leen
Humulene is a sesquiterpene terpene with a earthy, woody, spicy (hops-like) aroma. It's also found naturally in Hops (Humulus lupulus), Sage, Ginseng. Research suggests humulene research shows anti-inflammatory activity comparable to corticosteroids, though more human studies are needed.
Boiling Point
222°F (106°C)
Aroma
Earthy
Also Found In
Aroma Profile:
Earthy, woody, spicy (hops-like)
What is Humulene?
Humulene is abundant in hops and gives beer its characteristic bitter aroma. In cannabis, it works synergistically with caryophyllene and is studied for potential anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressant properties. A 2024 scoping review of 340 studies found promising evidence for antibiotic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects.
How Humulene Works
Humulene reduces airways allergic inflammation via NF-κB inhibition with efficacy comparable to dexamethasone (Rogerio et al., 2009). It also inhibits acute gastric mucosal injury by suppressing NF-κB-mediated inflammatory responses and histamine release. Unlike most cannabis compounds, it may suppress rather than stimulate appetite via IL-8 modulation.
Researched Effects
Anti-inflammatory
Strong EvidenceReduced airways allergic inflammation in mice via NF-κB inhibition; efficacy comparable to dexamethasone.
✓ Compliant Language
Research shows anti-inflammatory activity comparable to corticosteroids
✗ Avoid Saying
Treats inflammatory conditions
Gastroprotective
Moderate EvidenceInhibited acute gastric mucosal injury by suppressing NF-κB-mediated inflammatory responses.
✓ Compliant Language
Shows gastro-protective properties in research
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Treats ulcers or stomach conditions
Sources
Appetite Modulation
Emerging ResearchUnlike most cannabis compounds, humulene may reduce appetite via IL-8 modulation.
✓ Compliant Language
May help moderate appetite
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Causes weight loss or treats obesity
Sources
Understanding Evidence Levels
Safety Information
Humulene is GRAS and found in beer hops. Well-tolerated at typical levels.
Scientific References
Rogerio AP, et al. • Planta Medica (2009)
Reduced airways allergic inflammation in mice via NF-κB inhibition; efficacy comparable to dexamethasone.
Kim MJ, et al. • International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2021)
Inhibited acute gastric mucosal injury by suppressing NF-κB-mediated inflammatory responses and histamine release.
Sherwin E, et al. • Frontiers in Pharmacology (2024)
340 studies analyzed; promising evidence for antibiotic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects.
Legault J, Pichette A. • Planta Medica (2007)
PubMed ID: 17426954
Investigated appetite-modulating properties via IL-8 modulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is humulene?
Humulene (α-humulene) is an earthy, hoppy-scented terpene found in cannabis and hops. It works synergistically with caryophyllene and is studied for anti-inflammatory properties.
Does humulene suppress appetite?
Interestingly, yes—some research suggests humulene may help moderate appetite, which is unusual for cannabis compounds that typically stimulate hunger.
Quick Facts
- Full Name
- α-Humulene
- Category
- sesquiterpene
- Boiling Point
- 222°F (106°C)
- Aroma
- Earthy, woody, spicy (hops-like)
Looking for strains high in Humulene? Our doctors can help you find the right product.
Find a DoctorRelated Terpenes
Educational Information
This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before using cannabis products.
Strain Variability
Terpene profiles vary significantly between batches, growers, and growing conditions—even for the same strain name. Always check lab test results.
Indica/Sativa Note
The indica/sativa distinction is largely marketing. Effects are better predicted by cannabinoid and terpene profiles than strain classification.