Delta-3-carene (carene) is a bicyclic monoterpene. Carene occurs naturally as a component of turpentine, with content as high as 42% depending on the source. It is also found in rosemary, basil, pepper, cedar, and cannabis. Carene has a sweet and woodsy odor, sometimes with a subtle hint of lemon. It is miscible with fats and oils, but not soluble in water.
Carene is found in many essential oils used in aromatherapy.1 It is also used in cosmetics, perfumes, and foods as a flavoring agent.
Carene has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory properties, specifically in the reduction of edema.2 It also appears to increase the incorporation of calcium into bones (mineralization), improving overall bone health. These bone-strengthening properties make carene a potential treatment for osteoporosis.3
Popular cannabis strains containing carene include Lemon Shining Silver Haze, Skunk XL, Arjan’s Ultra Haze #2, Super Silver Haze, and Lemon Haze.