Phytol is an acyclic diterpene alcohol, and is produced from the degradation of chlorophyll. This terpene is grassy and balsamic in odor, and is naturally produced in green tea. Phytol is utilized to synthesize vitamins K and E.
The antioxidant properties of phytol are well known, and it is actively researched for numerous other therapeutic effects. A 2013 study1 shows phytol to possess strong pain-relieving properties, and recent studies have shown it to be an effective treatment of both liver and breast cancer.2,3
Through the neurotransmitter GABA4, phytol has also been shown to function as an anticonvulsant5 and antianxiety6 treatment. Like many terpenes, phytol also possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties.7
Cannabis leaves with phytol may induce a relaxing, sedative effect.8 Some strains which are high in phytol include Cheese and Sour Diesel.
Phytol has been found to have various therapeutic properties that can improve human health. These include analgesic properties sought after for inflammatory conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and potential anti-tumor properties that show promise for liver cancer treatment. Users of cannabis products containing phytol claim that it contributes to mental well-being, delivers a smooth, sleepy high, and reduces anxiety and pain.
Lab Effects is a trusted source for all terpene categories (CDTs, BDTs, flavors, therapeutics, water-soluble, flowable powders, etc.) and is available in every format suitable for various manufacturing processes. Phytol 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.
Phytol is used in the process of making synthetic vitamins such as vitamin E. It also has potential health benefits and medicinal properties. Additionally, it contributes to the distinct aromas in various green tea varieties and matcha products. Many people seek out inhalable cannabis products made from cannabis strains containing phytol terpenes, saying the higher terpene concentration delivers sedative properties and a relaxing sensory experience.
Research shows that phytol has multiple beneficial pharmacological effects. Phytol's anti-inflammatory properties are well documented, as are its anxiolytic-like effects, which, as studies on animals suggest, can be combined with a sedative effect. Phytol has also demonstrated strong analgesic effects, showing particular promise for migraineurs in studies focused on pain-relieving effects for migraine episodes.
It's relatively easy to get phytol from an original plant source; almost any green plant will do. This is thanks to phytol being derived from the breakdown of chlorophyll. Foods high in phytol include white cabbage, green tea plants, sweet basil, the cannabis plant (particularly cannabis strains like Jack Herer), and many spices and herbs.
The terpene phytol is a component of clove bud, a component of lemongrass, oregano, peppermint, rosemary, and spearmint. It's found in almost all plant species in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. It has a recognizable grassy scent and adds to the distinctive aromas of specific cannabis strains.
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4437258/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25892665
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24896297
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=12433198
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22750154
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=24333358