Cymene is a secondary terpene and is found in many essential oils including thyme, cumin, and cannabis. The most common form of cymene is p-cymene, which is a colorless liquid that has a soft, musty scent. In cannabis, strains that contain cymene are usually low in concentration, which allows it to be safe for consumption.
Cymene has a multitude of healing properties, including:
Antimicrobial
Cymene’s antimicrobial properties make it advantageous to help as an immunoprotective. This terpene can help ward off free radicals within the body and help prevent new ones from entering the body.
Antifungal
The terpene has antifungal properties and is enhanced by other terpenes and phyto-compounds that share the same property. This phenomenon is known as the entourage effect. This effect plays a role with the other healing properties as well.
Analgesic
P-cymene has anti-inflammatory effects which contribute to reducing pain in the body.
A study published in 2012 explains that cymene notably increased the amount of time it took for mice to react to pain caused by inflammation and heat.
Another study published in 2015 shows similar results, speculating that cymene is able to significantly lower inflammation and pain by modulating the opioid system.
AchE Inhibitor
It can aid in the inhibition of AchE, which means that the neurotransmitter Acetylcholine has a longer duration. When this occurs with low doses, it can help improve memory, attention, and motivation.
Taken in excessive quantities, AchE inhibitors can cause problems, but small amounts are helpful for people who have attention disorders, and those who are nervous, stressed or struggling with mood.
This terpene works best in LOW concentrations. Everything in moderation. In cannabis, this secondary terpene is only found in low amounts.
New to terpenes? Learn more about terpenes here.