*Produced in partnership with Trulieve Cannabis Dispensary
As the Science surrounding cannabis continues to unfold, we are constantly learning new and amazing things about this plant. For instance, we’ve come to learn that the therapeutic properties cannabis has to offer extends far beyond THC, CBD and other cannabinoids formed in the plant.
We are also beginning to understand the therapeutic value inherent in cannabis terpenes. Terpenes not only contribute to the plant’s flavor and aroma profile, they possess powerful therapeutic properties of their own.
In this short review, we will explore the benefits one of the lesser known terpenes, farnesene, has to offer.
What is Farnesene?
Farnesene is classified as a sesquiterpene. Sesquiterpenes are built from three isoprene units, containing 15 carbon atoms. They are less volatile than monoterpenes and emit a much stronger aroma. Sesquiterpenes are well known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Farnesene is an analog of farnesol and is found in a variety of other plants commonly found in Nature including: hops, ginger, turmeric ylang-ylang and chamomile.
There are two types of farnesene: alpha (a) and beta (b), both of which naturally occur in a variety of different plants.
Other Sources of farnesene in Nature:
A-farnesene is one of the terpenes found in apple skins and is responsible for the familiar scent reminiscent of “green apples”. When a-farnesene is oxidized, the result is the characteristic browning that is evident when an apple begins to rot.
B-farnesene is found in both the plant world (such as potatoes) and in some insects. Interestingly, b-farnesene is a pheromone emitted when aphids are under attack, as a “warning signal” to other aphids, signaling that dangerous predators are nearby. This highlights the insect repelling properties possessed by b-farnesene.
Farnesene rich cultivars:
Some of the cannabis strains that farnesene is evident in:
- 9 lb. Hammer
- Grandaddy Purple
- Do-Si-Dos
Farnesene Health Benefits and Effects:
Farnese is known to have a wide array of therapeutic properties and effects.
Antispasmodic/Promotes Healthy Digestion: Farnesene is known to have carminative properties, which means it can assist in expelling gas from the stomach or intestines, relieving flatulence, abdominal pain or distention. It can be particularly helpful for relieving spasms in the bowel that cause cramps as well as other digestive discomforts.
Anti-bacterial: Farnesene has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria. By eliminating harmful bacteria and regulating levels of healthy bacteria, it assists the body in maintaining a natural balance or a state of homeostasis.
A 2013 study published in the Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences indicated that farnesene could have future applications in the field of dentistry. The study concluded that farnesene extracts “have great potential as anticariogenic agents” with the potential to fight off tooth decay, holding great promise in the treatment of oral disease.
Anti-anxiety: Farnesene has calming and sedative properties, with the ability to promote relaxation and relieve anxiety. Its sedative properties can help promote a restful night’s sleep, which may be especially helpful for individuals who struggle to fall or stay asleep.
Anti-inflammatory: Farnesene is found abundantly in turmeric. Turmeric is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to help people suffering from conditions caused by inflammation, such as arthritis.
In a nutshell:
Just like all other plants, the cannabis plant produces and excretes beneficial essential oils. These essential oils are called terpenes, and while research is still evolving, Science has shown that plant derived essential oils, such as farnesene, can drastically improve a patient’s overall quality of life.
**Note: As always, with medical conditions and symptoms, please consult with your doctor for personalized medical advice. The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated the statements made regarding these products. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
References:
Ali, B., et. al. 2015. “Essential Oils in Aromatherapy: A Systemic Review”. Science Direct. 5 (8), 601-611.
Ishnava, K., et. al. (2013) “Anti-cariogenic and Phytochemical Evaluation of Eucalyptus Globules Labill”. Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences. 20(1): 69