Humulene | Cannabis Terpene Guide
α-Humulene - Effects, Benefits & Strains
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)
Research Sources
4 peer-reviewed studies
Verified Via
PubMed / DOI
Evidence
Research-Backed
Updated
February 2026
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.
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Research shows anti-inflammatory activity comparable to corticosteroids
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Treats inflammatory conditions
Gastroprotective
Moderate EvidenceInhibited acute gastric mucosal injury by suppressing NF-κB-mediated inflammatory responses.
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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.
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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
4 peer-reviewed sources cited
- 1
Rogerio AP, et al. Preventive and therapeutic anti-inflammatory properties of the sesquiterpene alpha-humulene in experimental airways allergic inflammation British Journal of Pharmacology. 2009
α-Humulene reduced airway inflammation via NF-κB inhibition.
- 2
Fernandes ES, et al. Anti-inflammatory effects of compounds alpha-humulene and (-)-trans-caryophyllene isolated from the essential oil of Cordia verbenacea European Journal of Pharmacology. 2007
α-Humulene showed anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective effects.
- 3
Fiorini D, et al. Pharmacological review of α-humulene Phytochemistry Reviews. 2024. doi:10.1007/s11101-024-09876-5
Most recent comprehensive review of humulene pharmacology.
- 4
Legault J, Dahl W, et al. Antitumor activity of balsam fir oil: production of reactive oxygen species induced by alpha-humulene as possible mechanism of action Planta Medica. 2003
α-Humulene showed antitumor activity via ROS production.
Research Verification
All citations link directly to PubMed or the original source. You can verify any claim by clicking the reference link. Learn more about how we research.
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)
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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.