Terpenes are the unsung heroes of the cannabis world. Though they have been getting a lot more attention lately, their importance can’t be overstated. High humulene strains stand out for their unique aromatic and flavor characteristics and for the terpene’s unique contribution to the overall experience.
Understanding the role that terpenes like Humulene play in cannabis is a great way to enhance your enjoyment of cannabis – for both connoisseurs and casual users alike. It’s simple: if you know which terpenes help create the flavors and effects you love, you can make better choices at the dispensary.
What is a Terpene?
Let’s start at the beginning. Terpenes are naturally occurring chemical compounds produced by plants and some animals that produce distinct flavors and especially aromas. They often play a role in plant and animal defense.
There is a huge variety of major and minor terpenes in the natural world; some sources report as many as twenty thousand. Cannabis alone is known to produce hundreds, but of those, only about a half dozen are produced in large enough quantities to affect experience.
Read more about cannabis terpenes.
What is Humulene?
Humulene is a sesquiterpene known for its earthy, woody aroma. Named after the Hops plant, Humulus Lupulus, it is also commonly found in Sage, Coriander, and Ginseng. Additionally, this terpene has been a significant component in the botanical and herbal industry for centuries.
Humulene in Cannabis
In the world of cannabis, Humulene plays an important role. It contributes to the plant’s scent and flavor profile as well as its therapeutic potential. Classic strains like White Widow, Headband, and Girl Scout Cookies are known for their high Humulene content, contributing to their distinct earthy, woody, and spicy aromas. This terpene adds depth to the flavor profile, enhancing the overall smoking experience.
Effects and Benefits of Humulene Terpene
Humulene is not a psychoactive compound like THC, but it’s believed to offer its own set of benefits. Researchers suggest that Humulene may possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Humulene has even been shown to have promise in fighting a type of cancer called hepatocellular carcinoma. Additionally, it may act as an appetite suppressant, helping to fight off the well-known ‘munchies’ effect associated with cannabis.
The Entourage Effect and Humulene
The concept of the entourage effect in cannabis suggests that terpenes like Humulene work synergistically with cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) to enhance therapeutic effects. Humulene’s interaction with other compounds in cannabis could potentially lead to a more interesting and nuanced experience for the user.
Unfortunately, not a lot is known about the entourage effect. The way cannabinoids interact with one another, with other terpenes and even lesser-known compounds, like flavonoids, is still a mystery.
Humulene for Connoisseurs and Casual Users
Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis enthusiast or a casual user, exploring Humulene-rich strains can be fun. Connoisseurs might appreciate the subtleties of the entourage effect and how Humulene’s interactions with other cannabinoids can lead to new experiences. While casual users can enjoy the distinctive flavors.
How to Identify Humulene in Cannabis Products
Identifying Humulene-rich cannabis products involves a keen sense of smell and taste. Look for strains with a spicy, earthy, and woody aroma, indicative of a high Humulene content. It’s important to note that there also appears to be some link between the terpene Beta-Caryophyllene and Humulene. When Beta-Caryophyllene is present, Humulene is often found at higher levels as well.
Lab-tested products often include a terpene profile, allowing consumers to make informed decisions based on the concentration of Humulene. Revolution Cannabis products almost always include dominant terpenes in order of concentration, so if you’re on the hunt for Humulene, check the labels and strain information available.
High Humulene Strains
Though Humulene is a common terpene, it’s typically found in smaller quantities than other common terpenes, often as the 3rd or 4th most dominant. Some strains in our catalog with higher levels include:
Georgia Pie
Georgia Pie features a unique blend of aromatics like sweet peaches, pie crust, candy, earth, and classic OG Kush. She’s a balanced hybrid that provides an energetic, euphoric high while also offering stress relief and pain-relieving properties.
Reported Effects
Euphoric, stress relief, energetic, body buzz, pain relief
Strain Tendency
50 Indica / 50 Sativa
Flavors
Creamy, earthy, pie crust
Top Terpenes
Beta-Caryophyllene, Limonene, Alpha-Humulene, Linalool, Alpha-Pinene
Lineage
Gelatti x Kush Mints
Bred by
Seed Junky Genetics
Shop Georgia Pie
Raspberry Shortcake
Raspberry Shortcake is unlike any other — she expresses herself through a profile of sweet Raspberry tang with hints of Runtz, cream, and candy. She’s irresistible to touch as her deep purple hues shine through her resin-heavy, velvety texture. Don’t let her cannabinoid content fool you, Raspberry Shortcake provides creative, functional, euphoric relief that will leave you reaching for more.
Reported Effects
Pain relief, stress relief, euphoric, uplifted, creative
Strain Tendency
40 Indica / 60 Sativa
Flavors
Raspberry, fruity, sweet, creamy, cakey, candy, tangy – hints of purple candy
Top Terpenes
Beta-Caryophyllene, Limonene, Linalool, Alpha-Humulene, Beta-Myrcene
Lineage
Raspberry Bellini x Slapz
Bred by
Seed Junky Genetics
Shop Raspberry Shortcake
Project 4510
A Sativa-dominant hybrid strain with an unknown lineage and a distinctive aroma, Project 4510 combines sweet pine and earthy notes with a hint of spice and citrus fruit. She offers an energized and clear-headed experience combined with relaxation and pain relief, making it a great choice for a productive afternoon.
Reported Effects
Uplifting, Euphoria, Creativity, Relaxed, Pain Relief
Strain Tendency
40 Indica / 60 Sativa
Flavors
Earthy, citrus, floral, pepper
Top Terpenes
Beta-Caryophyllene, Limonene, Alpha-Humulene, Beta-Myrcene, Linalool
Lineage
Unknown
Bred by
Grandiflora Genetics
Shop Project 4510
Final Thoughts
Humulene is an important component that contributes to the scent and taste of cannabis and is a key player in the plant’s therapeutic profile. Its availability in various strains offers a unique experience, emphasizing the importance of terpenes in the overall cannabis experience. As the research into the roll of terpenes continues to evolve, the appreciation for terpenes is likely to grow. It’s a whole new dimension in the way we enjoy and benefit from this versatile plant.
Sources:
α-Humulene inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation
