What Is Humulene? A Comprehensive Guide to This Unique Terpene

Cannabis buds containing the humulene terpenes and a glass pipe

If you’ve ever noticed an earthy aroma or flavor from your favorite flower, you’ve identified the humulene terpene. Many marijuana strains contain this terpene. Its woodsy scent and herbaceous flavor are synonymous with smoke sessions worldwide.

As cannabis consumers become more sophisticated, their curiosity about the chemical compounds in weed grows. Understanding what’s inside your bud is as important as understanding what’s inside your bowl. When you know the characteristics and effects of humulene, you can choose a strain that matches your specific needs.

It’s time to clear the air on the humulene terpene. We’ll explore what it is and what it does so you can incorporate it into your rotation. You’ll feel like a stoner sommelier the next time you pass a pre-roll full of humulene!

What is the Humulene Terpene?

The humulene terpene is just one of the 200 terpenes found in cannabis. Terpenes are a chemical compound common to plants. In fact, humulene is also in the hops used to make your favorite beer. If you’re a stoner with a soft spot for suds, this bud’s for you!

Strains with humulene produce smoke that’s laced with peppery or woody undertones. It’s notorious for earthy aromas, grounding bright cannabis flavors like citrus and pine with layers of dank depth.

Terpenes do not interact with your endocannabinoid system the way that THC does. The effects of humulene or any other terpene are not psychoactive. However, studies suggest that they interact with cannabinoids to bolster the impact of weed. This theory is known as the entourage effect.

Humulene Effects

Marijuana leaf in the sun

While it isn’t psychoactive, there are still plenty of humulene effects. This terpene has a long tradition in traditional Chinese medicine and wellness practices. While many studies involving the chemicals in cannabis are limited due to federal laws, the humulene terpene’s presence in hops and ginseng means we have a solid understanding of its advantages.

Inflammation and Pain Relief

Studies show that humulene may be just as effective as an anti-inflammatory as certain steroids. These findings are consistent with anecdotal reports that those with joint pain and arthritis find relief after consuming cannabis.

Just as it can soothe inflammation, scientists think the humulene terpene may have the potential to help relieve pain.

Antibacterial

The effects of humulene are proven to contain antibacterial properties. Specifically, this terpene fights against harmful bacteria that cause inflammatory bowel disease and staph skin infections.

Appetite Suppressant

While additional research is needed, scientists believe humulene terpenes working as part of the entourage effect with THCV may suppress appetite. This effect means humulene could curb the munchies and aid those who wish to manage their weight.

High Humulene Terpene Strains

Humulene is one of the ten primary terpenes found in cannabis. If you’ve smoked weed for any amount of time, odds are you’re familiar with its peppered earth aroma and flavor.

While humulene is present in cannabis and the hops used to brew beer, it also naturally occurs in cloves and basil. The flavor of this terpene and its toxicity helps protect plants from invasive bugs. However, that same flavor makes it a dank and delicious treat for smokers!

Whether you’re curious about its effects or just crave its earthy smoke, the following strains are all known to test high in the humulene terpene.

Girl Scout Cookies

The pepper-tinged mint flavor of Girl Scout Cookies is brimming with humulene. Users love the juxtaposition of its sweet and savory smoke, and welcome the indica-dominant full-body relaxation that slightly lifts the mood. This strain often approaches 19% THC, so it’s best to spark it once your day is over.

White Widow

White Widow is a hybrid strain that leans slightly toward sativa, making it a pleasant bud for social settings. Users report that its spiced wood humulene terpene flavor fades into an energetic high, making them talkative and creative. We recommend a few hits of White Widow before hanging out with friends.

Candy Land

If you love trichomes, Candy Land will be your next favorite bud. Frost crystals cover its yellow fibers, giving it a stunning appearance that will make mouths water. After a few hits of this herbaceously sweet flower, expect a head high full of buzzy energy and mood-boosting euphoria.

Death Star

A classic indica like Death Star is a great way to unwind and ease mental tension. Hits of this Star Wars-inspired strain bring waves of sour, peppery smoke and fade into a deep relaxation. Enjoy this bud when all that’s left on the agenda is catching a blissful buzz.

Super Sour Diesel

Super Sour Diesel is the most potent strain on our list. Expect to feel a blend of psychoactive and humulene’s effects as stress and body tension fade into an energetic blast of creativity. Because it can reach 23% THC, this bud might be too intense for novice smokers. Roll a joint with Super Sour Diesel to experience strong cerebral effects.

The Final Toke on Humulene Terpene

The humulene terpene is an all-star in the plant world. It gives beer its delicious flavor and contributes that same herbaceous quality to some of the best strains of cannabis. Humulene effects, while not psychoactive, are also major contributors to some of the most promising holistic benefits of weed.

Westwood Farmacy has one of the best selections of locally-grown flower in Los Angeles. Our premium products are always fresh, so you can taste the terpenes with each toke. Stocking top-shelf THC for the community is our passion, and we keep prices low enough to ensure your stash stays stocked.

Visit our Westwood dispensary today and take advantage of our incredible daily deals. A knowledgeable budtender will turn you on to new products and answer any questions. Feeling antisocial? Skip the conversation and shop online for easy in-store pickup. Order now!

SMThe Farmacy Westwood