Plants are undoubtedly one of the greatest gifts of nature. They are present in our daily food; we can make fibers out of them and fabricate almost all kinds of objects we can imagine. Still, indisputably, the mystery surrounding the medicinal power plants have is one thing that has marveled human beings since its inception.
Since immemorial times, humans have been using plants and their derived substances to attend and treat endless conditions. But it is barely in the last century that we have begun to truly develop that halo of mystery that involves plants and their healing power. Much of this therapeutic power is due to the natural compounds that the same plants generate, called terpenes.
There are naturally occurring compounds within the world of cannabis that are usually the protagonists, such as CBD, THC, CBG, and some significant terpenes like limonene, pinene, myrcene, or linalool. But there are other secondary terpenes that, despite not being so popular, in combination with the rest of terpenes and cannabinoids, play a significant role in the synergistic effect that directly impacts how the body assimilates all the therapeutic load present in the plant. Within these lesser-known terpenes, we can find Alpha Phellandrene.
Alpha Phellandrene Terpene
Alpha Phellandrene was previously confused with pinene and limonene. It was discovered more than a century ago, in the early 1900s. Since then, we have used it in holistic medicine thanks to the variety of therapeutic properties it presents. After studies on eucalyptus oil, scientists found that what was previously believed to be limonene and pinene were actually two different isomers called Alpha phellandrene and Beta Phellandrene. Although you can find it in higher concentrations in eucalyptus, you will also find it in various plants such as black pepper and cinnamon dill, parsley, mint, pine, lavender, water fennel, and herb ginger.What does Alpha Phellandrene do?
It can be difficult to exactly say what the Alpha Phellandrene terpene can do due to the lack of official information on the subject. Even though the discovery of this isomeric compound was more than a century ago, there is still a long way to go in terms of the total compression of all the properties, effects, and benefits that Alpha phellandrene carries. However, not everything is a mystery. This secondary terpene proves to be easily absorbed by the skin and can generate some effects in the human body that can result in potential health benefits. Alpha Phellandrene also has a pleasant scent that is widely popular in the cosmetic world.Alpha Phellandrene Effects
As we already mentioned, there is still a long way to go in terms of research to fully understand all the effects that Alpha Phellandrene can generate in the body. Nonetheless, holistic and naturopathic medicine has been using essential oils containing Alpha Phellandrene for decades to treat certain physical and even psychological conditions. Studies already carried out show that the skin highly absorbs this natural compound and produces a general comfort effect thanks to its pleasant aroma. Phellandrene also proves to be an energy booster, generating an increase in energy levels and a significant spirit enhancement. Because Alpha Phellandrene can reduce sensitivity to pain, it can act effectively as an analgesic and help soothe particular physical pains. Moreover, according to a 2015 study, Alpha Phellandrene could have antidepressive and antihyperalgesic effects when combined with limonene. In a 2017 study, Phellandrene proved that it could have fungicidal properties since it showed to control Penicillium cyclopium fungus in tomatoes. On the other hand, Alpha Phellandrene also shows irritating properties on sensitive skin or patients with dermatitis, mainly when applied in high concentrations. This is one of the factors to consider when using this isomer directly on the skin. However, when it comes to cannabis, there is no need to worry as you will find Alpha Phellandrene only in small concentrations in some strains.Alpha Phellandrene Uses
As a natural compound, Alpha Phellandrene has been used even before its discovery to treat certain conditions related to the variety of therapeutic effects that this terpene can generate in the human body. It can work as an energy-booster, pain-reliever, and to improve mood. On an industrial level, it is one of the most sought-after terpenes. You will commonly find it an additive in a wide variety of perfumes, cosmetic products, and fragrances due to its pleasant aroma.Alpha Phellandrene Benefits
Alpha Phellandrene’s effects can generate a series of potential benefits that can improve the general wellbeing of the human body. Although scientists still need to conduct more studies on this terpene, some of the proven benefits of this awesome isomer are: Antifungal: A 2017 study suggests that Alpha Phellandrene may present effective mechanisms as a fungicide against Penicillium cyclopium and even inhibit or prevent the growth of a variety of fungi. It also shows to works effectively in preventing and treating chronic mycoses such as athlete's foot, candidiasis, and severe systemic infections. Anti-inflammatory: Like other terpenes to which Alpha Phellandrene has been linked, such as limonene and pinene, this secondary terpene also demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties. Analgesic: Some studies show that, either as a major component or by itself, Alpha Phellandrene can reduce sensitivity to pain, which suggests that it can act effectively as an analgesic. Anticancer: A study done in 2014 showed that Alpha Phellandrene might have viability reducing the proliferation of cancer cells in the human liver. More recent studies showed that there might be adequate comparability in leukemia models. Antihyperalgesic and Anti-depressive: Studies carried out on the essential oil of the Schinus terebinthifolius fruit showed that Alpha Phellandrene, in combination with limonene, can have significant stimulating properties that can work as an antidepressive.Alpha Phellandrene Flavor
Alpha Phellandrene carries with it a load of minty, peppery, woody scents and slightly citrusy in its aromatic profile. Both compounds are not soluble in water but are miscible. This means that by mixing them in ether, you can create something similar to the colognes and perfumes that you find for sale. If you are looking to identify this terpene through its flavor, look for a minty taste in your cannabis strain. Alpha Phellandrene is probably part of the flavor profile that your flower contains.Alpha Phellandrene Strains
Since it is a secondary terpene, you will not find alpha Phellandrene in large concentrations in cannabis strains. However, you can find small concentrations of it in any of these strains:- Goji OG
- Red Headed Stranger
- Sage
- Ace of spades
- Jack Herer
- Trainwreck
- Dogwalker OG
