The cannabis terpenes series: Explore the benefits of humulene
What is humulene?
Humulene, named after Humulus lupulus, the common hop plant, naturally occurs in many plants, including cannabis, hops, black pepper, basil, ginseng, and sage. It is a common terpene and contributes to the earthy smell and taste of certain cannabis strains that are abundant in humulene.
If you’re interested in learning more about terpenes and why they matter, check out the blogs in our cannabis terpenes series.
What are terpenes?
Terpenes are organic compounds that play a vital role in the aroma and flavour of a cannabis strain, which explains why some variations smell earthy (such as myrcene) whilst others smell fruity (like limonene).
Terpenes also play a significant role in the therapeutic effects of cannabis and have garnered attention for their role in the “entourage effect,” which enhances cannabis’ physiological benefits in comparison to isolated cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD.
What does humulene smell and taste like?
Humulene is known for its spicy, earthy, and woody flavour, which can be reminiscent of a beer with a high hop content.
Many cannabis strains that have an aroma of hops or fresh herbs with a peppery edge indicate high humulene concentrations.
The health benefits and effects of humulene
This terpene has analgesic effects, meaning it can help to relieve pain. When taken orally, it has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that have been shown in a study to decrease allergic inflammation in the airways.
Humulene may also produce mild sedative effects and may provide antibacterial properties.
There is reason to suggest humulene affects appetite and contributes to the entourage effect, working synergistically with cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) to suppress appetite. However, the evidence that this terpene reduces appetite is anecdotal at this stage and needs more solidifying research.
How should I vape cannabis with high levels of humulene?
To activate the benefits of this earthy-smelling terpene, set your vape to 388°F/198°C.
Finding the right vape temperature for your medical cannabis is not a precise process, but you can try out various settings to discover which one provides the most beneficial effects for your needs.
How do I sign up as a Mamedica patient?
To register as a patient with Mamedica, check your eligibility for medical cannabis here.
Mamedica is a private clinic with a linked pharmacy that specialises in cannabis-based prescription medicines (including oil, vape tinctures and cannabis flower) for patients who have not found satisfactory results for their conditions with their existing treatments across pain, psychiatry, neurology, palliative care and cancer-related pain.