What is Terpinolene Terpene? Benefits, Effects, Cannabis Strains

By Siam Green · · Updated 10 May 2026
Terpinolene terpene molecular structure diagram on green background

Welcome to the sixth article of our cannabis terpenes series. In today’s post, I am going to introduce you to terpinolene terpene and break down what it is, its scent and flavor, its therapeutic benefits along the cannabis strains with high terpinolene.

Keep reading if you’re ready to see what else we can learn about this rare and special terpene.

Key Takeaways

What’s Terpinolene Terpene?

Terpinolene, sometimes called ‘TPO’, is usually found in small amounts within many cannabis strains and can also be found in plants and herbs such as cumin, rosemary, lilac, sage, and nutmeg. Cannabis strains rich in terpinolene usually provide an energetic effect to the consumer, however, when combined with other terpenes such as myrcene, linalool, or humulene tend to be more sedative.

Terpinolene is also known as delta-terpinene as well as alpha- and gamma-terpinene.

The Smell and Taste of Terpinolene

The aroma of terpinolene is more complex compared to other terpenes. As we discussed in our previous articles, Limonene smells citrusy like lemon. Pinene hosts a fragrance reminiscent of pine trees and conifer trees, and linalool smells like lavender! Terpinolene is known for its fresh, floral, and pine-like scent with a bit of sweet flavor which is why terpinolene tends to be used in products like insect repellant, perfume, soap, and flavoring agents in the food industry. It is also used for manufacturing plastics and resins.

Medicinal Efficacy of Terpinolene

Terpinolene contained within oils has been associated with anti-inflammatory properties. Gamma-terpinene has shown results that suggest it may help with pain and inflammation, particularly in animal models such as mice. Although more studies need to be done on humans to confirm these findings, it is still suggested that terpinolene, when combined with other terpenes and cannabinoids, may contribute to pain relief properties through entourage effects.

Researchers have found that the terpinolene effect on mice models may offer a sedative effect after inhaling fragrance compounds and essential oils containing terpinolene terpene. Due to that, there’s a high possibility that it could potentially help individuals experiencing anxiety and insomnia.

One study provides evidence that terpinolene may have potent antibacterial properties, mentioning that oils with terpinolene could potentially inhibit the growth of bacteria in the human gastrointestinal system.

Within a vitro study, researchers have given some details about the anti-inflammatory activity and its potential to support wound healing by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

Terpinolene Health Risks and Side Effects

While terpinolene is considered safe for humans, please keep in mind that there are still a few risks when it comes to the use of terpinolene. Individuals may experience blisters, inflammation, and kidney pain when exposed to extremely high concentrations or doses of this terpene. 

Terpinolene in Cannabis Strains

Conclusion

Terpinolene can be discovered in a small amount in cannabis plants. This terpene provides an energizing effect and is generally found in lilac, sage, and nutmeg. Thanks to its sweet and fresh smell, it is widely used in personal products such as perfumes and soap, the food industry, and manufacturing plastics and resins.

This terpene is often associated with several potential properties, including antibacterial effects, anti-anxiety effects, and an anecdotal ability to support wound healing and potentially help with pain. However, there are some cautious you need to be aware of as one might be allergic to terpinolene and may experience inflammation. Cannabis strains with high levels of terpinolene that you can find on our website are Grape Stank and Harlequin CBD. Other terpinolene strains also include J1, Kush Mountains, and Golden Pineapple.

Our website also incorporates other information on cannabis such as cultivars, cannabis strains, and cannabis terpenes.

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