Alpha Terpinene
Chemical Properties
- FLASH POINT: 122°F/50°C
- BOILING POINT: 347°F/175°C
- COLOR: COLORLESS TO LIGHT YELLOW
- ODOR: WOODY, TERPENE, LEMON, HERBAL, MEDICINAL, CITRUS
- CAS#: 99 - 86 - 5
- MOLECULAR FORMULA: C₁₀H₁₆
Therapeutic Benefits
- ANTIBACTERIAL: SLOWS BACTERIAL GROWTH
- ANTIFUNGAL: INHIBITS THE GROWTH OF FUNGUS
- ANTI-INSOMNIA: AIDS WITH SLEEP
- ANTI–PROLIFERATIVE: INHIBITS CANCER CELL GROWTH
- ANTIOXIDANT: PREVENTS OXIDATION DAMAGE TO OTHER MOLECULES IN THE BODY
About Alpha Terpinene
Alpha terpinene (α-terpinene) is one of three monoterpenes known as terpinene, along with beta-terpinene and gamma-terpinene. α-terpinene occurs naturally in many varieties of plants, including allspice, eucalyptus, citrus, juniper, cardamom, marjoram, and cannabis.
Known for its smoky, woody scent, α-terpinene is a colorless liquid that is most commonly utilized by adding more pleasant scents into industrial fluids. It is also used in the beauty and pharmaceutical industries as a flavor and aroma additive. In biology, it is known as both a component of volatile oil and as a plant metabolite.
As a constituent of tea tree oil, α-terpinene possesses strong antioxidant properties.1 α-terpinene has also been researched as a potential cancer treatment. A study conducted by the Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research found α-terpinene contributed to the inhibition of breast cancer cell growth.2
Like many terpenes, α-terpinene is referenced by a number of (potentially confusing) different names and synonyms. LabEffects’ list of known synonyms is as follows:
α-Terpinene synonyms and other names:
- Terpinene
- p-Mentha-1,3-diene
- Alpha Terpinene
- 1-Methyl-4-(1-methylethyl)-1,3-cyclohexadiene
- 1-isopropyl-4-methyl-1,3-cyclohexadiene
Cannabis strains with high concentrations of α-terpinene include Sentinel and Warwick #1.
Alpha Terpinene FAQs
What are the effects of alpha-terpinene? A deeper look.
Alpha-terpinene has been used in various pharmaceutical capacities and self-reported by cannabis users to promote relaxation and improve mood. α-terpinene is also reported to have antioxidant properties. Additionally, this humble terpene may have significant importance in the realm of medicine thanks to its potential antiviral activity.
Where can I purchase alpha-terpinene?
Lab Effects is a trusted source for all categories of terpenes (CDTs, BDTS, Flavors, Therapeutics, water-soluble, flowable powders, etc.) available in every format suitable for various manufacturing processes. Alpha-terpinene has shown much therapeutic potential for medical applications in experimental studies. Isolated terpenes purchased from Lab Effects are guaranteed pure, 100% botanically derived, and free from chemical adulterants such as synthetic flavorants, industrial odorizers, solvents, pesticides, and metals.
What is alpha-terpinene used for?
The antimicrobial effects of α-terpinene make it an ideal additive to personal care products intended for topical use. In addition to its antimicrobial activity, alpha-terpinene can be stabilized within products to withstand variable storage temperature ranges. α-terpinene is also valuable to conductor manufacturing industries as an intermediate chemical.
What does alpha-terpinene taste like?
Alpha-terpinene has a citrusy, lemon taste at most lower concentrations. However, at higher concentrations, it can become bitter, and notes of pine and menthol become more prominent. α-terpinene can be found in a variety of plant sources, including eucalyptus, allspice, citrus fruits, and cannabis.
What do terpinenes do?
Terpinenes have many potential applications. In addition to their antioxidant properties, they can enhance the smell of cosmetics and cleaning products, improve the flavor of foods and beverages, and be used in the development of various antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and sedatives. Cannabis strains high in terpinenes often support biological activities such as relaxation and mood stabilization.