By Steven Voser

Cannabis contains hundreds of different compounds which combine to give the plant its unique effects and traits. While cannabinoids are often named as the main players responsible for cannabis’ therapeutic potential, terpenes play an equally important role.

In this article, we look at two of the main terpenes found in the cannabis plant, ocimene and guaiol. While there is a lack of in-depth research on these compounds, we’ll shed some light on what we know so far, and what it means for the future application of these terpenes.

WHAT ARE TERPENES?

Terpenes are hydrocarbons found within the cannabis plant. They are commonly referred to as the plant’s “essential oils” and play a vital role in giving cannabis its complex aromas and medicinal properties.

The cannabis plant can contain up to 200 different terpenes. However, there are roughly 30 terpenes (10 primary and 20 secondary) that are consistently found in high concentrations in most cannabis varieties. Ocimene and guaiol are two such examples.

The small variations in terpene concentration from one plant to another is what give individual strains their unique smells, characteristics, and effects. Hence, the science behind terpenes has received a lot of attention in the cannabis industry recently.

Terpenes also help the plant defend itself against disease and pests. From what research is available, terpenes are also noted for their medicinal properties, displaying anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiviral, and other therapeutic benefits.

Ocimene Cannabis Terpene Mint

OCIMENE: A SWEET, YET POWERFUL MEDICAL COMPOUND

Ocimene is a terpene found in a wide variety of fruits and herbs, including mint, parsley, pepper, basil, mangoes, orchids, and cannabis. It is noted for having a sweet, herbaceous, and woody aroma. Some also describe it as fruity and slightly citric.

Ocimene is believed to have a variety of medicinal benefits. A study[1] on the essential oils of the citrus unshiu flower found that ocimene has anti-inflammatory effects. Meanwhile, another study[2] on the essential oils of a specific type of ferulago (a herbaceous plant species) found that ocimene had strong antifungal properties as well.

Finally, a study on seven Lebanon species[3] found that ocimene was a major constituent of the plants’ essential oils, which have been noted for their strong antiviral properties.

Since terpene levels can vary from one phenotype to the next, it can be hard to pinpoint exactly which strains of cannabis will contain high concentrations of ocimene. However, some renowned aromatic strains that may contain higher concentrations of ocimene include OG Kush and Sour Diesel.

Ocimene is believed to have a boiling point of roughly 65-66°C. Hence, to get the most out of this terpene, we suggest using a good vaporizer on a very low temperature setting.

Guaiol Piney Cannabis Terpene

GUAIOL: POTENT, PINEY, AND THERAPEUTIC

Unlike ocimene, guaiol is actually a sesquiterpenoid alcohol instead of an oil. Like other terpenes, however, it is also found in a variety of plants, mainly the wood from cypress pine and guaiacum.

Guaiol, as might be expected, is generally described as having a unique piney aroma, similar to that of other terpenes like pinene.

Guiaol has a long history as a natural medicine. The guaiacum plant, known to contain high concentration of guaiol, was brought back to Europe by the Spanish after they discovered Santo Domingo and quickly built up a reputation as a cure for syphilis.

In the 18th century, guaiacum was suggested to stimulate menstruation and was even used as an abortifacient. It has also been noted as a local stimulant that may help in the treatment of a sore throat, gout, rheumatism, and more.

More recently, guaiol has been studied for its unique antimicrobial properties. Researchers in 2007 found[4] that the compound can be effective against a variety of bacterial and fungal strains.

In 2013, a new study[5] on guaiol found that the terpene may also serve as a natural insecticide.

Given that guaiol has a strong pine aroma, it may be worthwhile looking for this terpene in strains with similarly strong pine scents, especially Gorilla, Berry, and Diesel varieties. Royal Gorilla, Sour Diesel, Kali Dog, and Haze Berry all might be some worthwhile strains to check out.

Like ocimene, guaiol has a relatively low boiling point of just 92°C. Hence, to get the most of this terpene, we suggest using a vaporizer at a low temperature setting.

Guaiol Ocimene Terpenes Cannabis Entourage Effect

REMEMBERING THE ENTOURAGE EFFECT

The entourage effect is a term used to describe the way terpenes and other compounds synergise. Ocimene and guaiol are able to work together with other terpenes and cannabinoids to produce potent, unique effects.

Therefore, it is always important to remember that while the individual potential of these terpenes is already impressive, they are best used together in whole plant therapies with other compounds.

A-Pinene

 

Anti-Inflamatory
Bronchodilator
Aids Memory
Anti-Bacterial
Also found in pine needles

A-Pinene

Linalool

 

Anesthetic
Anti-Convulsant
Analgesic
Anti-Anxiety
Also found in lavander

Linalool

Beta-Caryophillene

 

Anti-Inflamatory
Analgesic
Protects Cells Lining The Digestive Tract
Also found in black pepper

Beta-Caryophyllene

Myrcene

 

Contributes To Sedative Effect Of Strong Indicas
Sleep Aid
Muscle Relaxant
Also found in hops

Myrcene

Limonene

 

Treats Acid Reflux
Anti-Anxiety
Antidepressant
Also found in citrus

Limonene
 

THE FUTURE OF TERPENE RESEARCH

While terpenes are gaining a lot of attention from both cannabis users and researchers, there is still a lot we don’t know about how these compounds affect our bodies and contribute to the overall potential of cannabis-as-medicine.

Unfortunately, conducting research into cannabis and its compounds remains difficult. Despite various efforts to legalize the drug around the world, prohibitionist policies make studying the plant difficult and unattractive for researchers.

Hopefully, as the legalization movement gains momentum and attitudes towards the cannabis plant change, more research will go into this field to uncover the true potential of compounds like ocimene and guaiol.

External Resources:
  1. Chemical Composition and Anti-Inflammation Activity of Essential Oils From Citrus Unshiu Flower - PubMed https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. Biological Activities and Composition of Ferulago Carduchorum Essential Oil - PubMed https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. Phytochemical Analysis and in Vitro Antiviral Activities of the Essential Oils of Seven Lebanon Species - PubMed https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. Microbial Transformation of (-)-Guaiol and Antibacterial Activity of Its Transformed Products - PubMed http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. Europe PMC http://europepmc.org
Disclaimer:
This content is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources.

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Privacy Policy - Royal Queen Seeds

To ensure a safe online environment and guarantee adequate data protection, we strictly comply with all legal requirements. In this privacy statement, we provide information about how and for what purpose data is collected, safety measures, storage periods and contact details.


COMPANY NAME: SNORKEL SPAIN, SL (hereinafter ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS)

C/ Vilar d'Abdelà, 5 (nave 1) CP: 08170 de Montornès del Vallès

+34 937 379 846

support@royalqueenseeds.com


The present Privacy Policy sets out the terms on which we will treat personal data at ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS; this includes any personal data collected through our website https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/ as well as any other data we process in the course of our business activities.

ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS collects the following personal data for the purposes listed below:

SECTION 1 – PERSONAL INFORMATION WE COLLECT

1.1 Account purchases

Account purchases can only be made if you are in possession of a personal account. When you create an account or purchase something from our shop, as part of the buying and selling process we collect the following personal information that you provide to us:

This information is required for delivery. In addition, when you browse our shop, we automatically receive the Internet Protocol (IP) address of your computer. Based on this information, we can optimise your online experience and at the same time protect our online environment.

Purpose of data collection

We collect and store account-related data for the following purposes:

(a) to carry out obligations arising from any contracts between you and us, and to provide you with information, products and services that you may request from us;

(b) to set up, manage and communicate with you about your account and your orders;

(c) to conduct market research and analysis;

(d) to confirm your age and identity, and to detect and prevent fraud.

1.2 Newsletters

With your explicit permission, we may send you newsletters about our shop, new products and other updates. We send newsletters based on your explicit consent. In the event that you purchase a product, and in accordance with current regulations, we may send you commercial communications in accordance with the legitimate interest of our company, always about products or services similar to those you have purchased or contracted. In any case, you may exercise your right of opposition through the channels announced in this Privacy Policy. The following information is collected in relation to the newsletter:

We do not need to know the sex of the person in order to send the newsletter (data minimisation: by law we must ask for data that is strictly necessary to provide the service, and in this case knowing the sex is not necessary to send the newsletter).

Purpose of data collection

The data collected is used to:

(a) personalise our emails, including your name and gender;

(b) provide gender-specific content.

You can withdraw your consent at any time by using the link provided in the newsletter or the contact information provided in section 2.

1.3 Customer service and contact form

In order to provide appropriate support, our customer service employees have access to information related to the account. Consequently, their support will be highly effective and friendly. The data provided in our contact form is used by our CRM provider, SuperOffice. We will only use your details to respond to your message.

SECTION 2 – LEGITIMATE INTEREST

If you have purchased any of our products, please note that we may process your personal data for promotional purposes, based on Royal Queen Seeds' legitimate interest only to offer you products or services from our company and about products or services similar to those you have purchased. You may exercise your right to opt out of future messages by the means set out in this Privacy Policy or through any notification you receive.

2.1 How do you withdraw consent?

If you change your mind, you can withdraw your consent for us to contact you for the purpose of collecting, using, or disclosing your data at any time by reaching out to us at: support@royalqueenseeds.com.

SECTION 3 – DISCLOSURE

We may disclose your personal information if we are required to do so by law or if you breach our Terms of Service.

SECTION 4 – HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR DATA?

At Royal Queen Seeds, we will not retain your data for longer than is necessary for the purposes described in this Policy. Different retention periods apply for different types of data; however, the longest period we will normally hold any personal data is 10 years.

4.1 Account information

Data relating to the account remains relevant for as long as the consumer is in possession of an account. Therefore, the data remains documented for as long as the account exists. When our customers delete an account, the associated data will be deleted within a reasonable period of time. Requests regarding the inspection or correction of stored personal data or the deletion of an account can be sent to support@royalqueenseeds.com.

4.2 Newsletters

In the event that you give us your consent to inform you about our products or services, we will keep your data until you express your wish not to receive any further communications from us. However, we regularly (every month) carry out a relevance check. Registered customers (and their personal information) will be deleted whenever customers do not reply to our request. In addition, our newsletter mailing has an opt-out feature. Consumers can withdraw their consent by using this opt-out feature.

SECTION 5 – COOKIES

Cookies are small information files that notify your computer of previous interactions with our website. These cookies are stored on your hard drive, not on our website. Essentially, when you use our website, your computer displays its cookies to us, informing our site that you have visited before. This allows our website to function more quickly and remember aspects related to your previous visits (such as your username), making your experience more convenient. At Royal Queen Seeds, we use two types of cookies: functional and analytical.

5.1 Functional Cookies

Functional cookies are used to enhance your online experience. Among other things, these cookies track what is added to your shopping cart. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

5.2 Analytical Cookies

Analytical cookies are used for research and market analysis. The data collected with these analytical cookies is anonymous, making it unusable for third parties. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

SECTION 5 – THIRD-PARTY SERVICES

Third-party services are required to conduct transactions and provide our services. In general, the third-party providers we use will only collect, use and disclose your information to the extent necessary to enable them to perform the services they provide to us.

However, certain third-party service providers, such as payment gateways and other payment transaction processors, have their own privacy policies regarding the information we must provide to them for your transactions.

We encourage you to read the privacy policies of these providers so that you can understand how these providers will handle your personal information.

In particular, certain suppliers may be located or have facilities located in a different jurisdiction than yours or ours. Therefore, if you choose to proceed with a transaction involving the services of a third party, your information may be subject to the laws of the jurisdiction in which that service provider or its facilities are located.

Once you leave our website or are redirected to a third-party website or application, you are no longer governed by this Privacy Policy or the Terms of Service of our website.

Web analytics service (anonymous data)

On this website we have integrated an element of a web analytics service (with anonymisation functionality). Web analytics can be defined as the gathering, processing and analysis of data about the behaviour of visitors to websites. An analytics service collects, among other things, data about which website a person came from (the so-called referrer), which sub-pages they visited or how often and for how long they visited a sub-page. Web analytics is mainly used for website optimisation and for a cost–benefit analysis of internet advertising.

Courier service

To complete deliveries we use a courier service. This courier service carries out the delivery between our company and the consumer's home. To complete these logistics, the company requires access to the consumer's name and address information.

Mailing service

Royal Queen Seeds uses a third-party mail service provider to send its newsletter. This provider has access to limited account information related to opt-in consent (e.g. email address).

Marketing services

Royal Queen Seeds has the support of a company that specialises in marketing and communication activities. Their access to personal information is very limited and mostly anonymous.

Payment services

At Royal Queen Seeds we use external payment services to handle our transactions (e.g. credit card payments).

SECTION 6 – SECURITY

To protect your personal information, we take reasonable precautions and follow industry standard best practices to ensure that it is not inappropriately lost, misused, accessed, disclosed, altered or destroyed.

If you provide us with your credit card information, the information is encrypted using secure socket layer technology (SSL) and stored using AES-256 encryption. Although no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, we follow all PCI-DSS requirements and implement additional industry standards that are commonly accepted. Information related to the account is protected with a hashing method. This method transforms the information into a generated hash. As a result, confidential information is protected and invisible, even to us. In addition, our databases are exceptionally protected against unauthorised access. For example, access to the database is only possible and permitted via approved IP addresses (e.g. from Royal Queen Seeds headquarters). Other attempts and addresses are rejected at all times.

Furthermore, data is anonymised as much as possible, so it cannot be directly linked to a specific consumer. With this data, however, we may be able to carry out market research and analysis. In addition, the third parties concerned (e.g. mailing service) are examined prior to our collaboration, comply with the GDPR from the EU and receive a processing agreement. Within Royal Queen Seeds, employees are assigned different access permissions. Specific permission provides access only to information that is strictly required to perform a task. Digital security measures are subject to change and must meet high requirements to ensure the safety of online customers. That is why, at Royal Queen Seeds, we appoint a security officer. Regular verification and improvement of security measures (where necessary) are part of the role.

SECTION 7 – CHANGES TO THIS PRIVACY POLICY

We reserve the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time, so please check back regularly. Changes and clarifications will be effective immediately upon being published on the Website. If we make substantial changes to this policy, we will notify you here that it has been updated so you will know what information we collect, how we use it and under what circumstances, if any, we use and/or disclose it.

SECTION 8 – YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO: