Terpinolene | Cannabis Terpene Guide
Terpinolene - Effects, Benefits & Strains
Pronounced: ter-PIN-oh-leen
Terpinolene is a monoterpene terpene with a fresh, piney, floral, with citrus and herbal notes aroma. It's also found naturally in Tea tree, Apples, Cumin. Research suggests terpinolene shows sedative properties when isolated, though strain effects may differ, though more human studies are needed.
Boiling Point
365°F (185°C)
Aroma
Fresh
Also Found In
Aroma Profile:
Fresh, piney, floral, with citrus and herbal notes
Research Sources
2 peer-reviewed studies
Verified Via
PubMed / DOI
Evidence
Research-Backed
Updated
February 2026
What is Terpinolene?
Terpinolene has one of the most complex aroma profiles, combining floral, citrus, and herbal notes. It's rarely the dominant terpene. NOTE: Despite sedative properties in isolation, terpinolene-dominant strains (Jack Herer, Ghost Train Haze) are often reported as 'uplifting'—likely due to entourage effect with other terpenes.
How Terpinolene Works
Inhaled terpinolene produced sedative effects in mice mediated by nasal absorption (Ito & Ito, 2013). It also prevented LDL oxidation, suggesting cardiovascular protective effects. The paradox of sedative isolated effects vs. "uplifting" strain reputation highlights the complexity of the entourage effect.
Researched Effects
Sedative (in isolation)
Moderate EvidenceInhaled terpinolene produced sedative effects in mice mediated by nasal absorption.
✓ Compliant Language
Shows sedative properties when isolated, though strain effects may differ
✗ Avoid Saying
Is a sleep aid
Sources
Antioxidant
Moderate EvidencePrevented LDL oxidation, suggesting cardiovascular protective effects.
✓ Compliant Language
Demonstrates antioxidant properties in research
✗ Avoid Saying
Prevents disease or aging
Sources
Understanding Evidence Levels
Safety Information
Terpinolene is GRAS and used in many household products. Generally safe at typical levels.
Scientific References
2 peer-reviewed sources cited
- 1
Ito K, Ito M. The sedative effect of inhaled terpinolene in mice and its structure-activity relationships Journal of Natural Medicines. 2013
Terpinolene prolonged sleep time in mice.
- 2
Grassmann J, et al. The monoterpene terpinolene from the oil of Pinus mugo L. in concert with alpha-tocopherol and beta-carotene effectively prevents oxidation of LDL Phytomedicine. 2005
Terpinolene showed strong antioxidant activity.
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 does terpinolene smell like?
Terpinolene has a complex aroma combining floral, citrus, pine, and herbal notes—almost like a forest of flowers. It's found in apples, lilacs, and tea tree oil.
Is terpinolene energizing?
Many users report that terpinolene-dominant strains (like Jack Herer or Durban Poison) have uplifting, energizing effects, though more research is needed on the mechanisms.
Quick Facts
- Full Name
- Terpinolene
- Category
- monoterpene
- Boiling Point
- 365°F (185°C)
- Aroma
- Fresh, piney, floral, with citrus and herbal notes
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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.