Alpha bisabolol is a sesquiterpene found in cannabis and a few other plants. It’s known for its sweet honey floral profile, which is found in high concentrations in chamomile. This article will cover some of its many benefits that are sure to entice consumers.
Terpenes — a diverse class of organic compounds — are prominently found in various plants, particularly in cannabis. They are primarily responsible for the distinct and often captivating aromas and flavors associated with different plant species, flowers, and fruits. Beyond their sensory contributions, terpenes have notable ecological roles, functioning both as a defense mechanism by deterring herbivores and as a means of attraction for pollinators.
Terpenes exhibit considerable potential for their therapeutic effects. A wealth of research has explored their possible health benefits, showcasing their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic, and antibacterial properties. Terpenes often interact synergistically with other compounds — like cannabinoids in the context of cannabis — resulting in the “entourage effect.” This phenomenon underscores the mutual enhancement of effects when these compounds are combined. This intriguing attribute has not only captured the attention of traditional herbal medicine but has also spurred interest in emerging domains such as aromatherapy, and terpene’s incorporation into natural remedies and fragrances.
The entourage effect pertains to a phenomenon that occurs when various compounds within the cannabis plant — primarily cannabinoids such as THC and CBD — interact synergistically. This interaction extends to include other natural elements like terpenes and flavonoids. Instead of acting in isolation, these compounds collectively produce effects that are more potent and encompassing, particularly in their influence on the body’s endocannabinoid system.
This concept holds substantial implications for the therapeutic utility of cannabis-derived products. By capitalizing on the collaborative nature of these compounds, the entourage effect allows for modulation of their individual effects, potentially enhancing benefits while mitigating potential drawbacks. Terpenes, which contribute to the distinct scent and taste of various cannabis strains, can impact the absorption and receptor interactions of cannabinoids. As a result, the entourage effect has spurred research and medical interest in formulations that utilize the entire spectrum of compounds present in the plant, aiming to unlock a more comprehensive and impactful approach to therapeutic applications.
Alpha-bisabolol — also known as levomenol, is the primary terpene responsible for chamomile’s distinct smell which makes up about 30% of its fragrance profile. Its floral aroma has been compared to sweet honey and it has also been described as having nutty, spicy, and citrus notes. Alpha-bisabolol has a long history of use in cosmetics due to its fragrance, skin healing properties, and ability to increase skin absorption.
Alpha-bisabolol is found in lower concentrations in the cannabis plant. It is often found in larger amounts in indica strains rather than sativa strains. Even though it is not known how alpha-bisabolol directly contributes to the entourage effect, using it alongside other terpenes will likely have greater benefits than when used alone.
Bisabolol is a monocyclic sesquiterpene alcohol, meaning it contains three isoprene units. The larger structure of sesquiterpenes makes them more stable than monoterpenes. Their fragrance is more potent, so we find them in smaller amounts within the cannabis plant.
Bisabolol has a chemical structure of C15H26O, and exists in two forms, a and b. Most of the beneficial attributes are contributed to a-(-)-bisabolol. It’s enantiomer a-(+)-bisabolol, which is rare in nature; the configuration is a mirror image. Synthetic bisabolol is a mix of a-(-)-bisabolol and a-(+)-bisabolol. Β-bisabolol — found in corn and cotton — differs only in the position of the tertiary alcohol group.
Due to its abundance in common plants, alpha-bisabolol has been highly researched. It has a plethora of benefits for the skin, such as reducing fine lines, wrinkles and scars. Alpha-bisabolol penetrates the skin, aiding collagen turnover and moisturization. It is beneficial for healing skin ulcers, rashes, and dermatitis.
Alpha-bisabolol benefits include:
Alpha-bisabolol has been found to reduce the symptoms of myocardial infarction in rats, which is a benefit your heart is sure to love.
Some cannabis strains will have a higher concentration of Alpha-bisabolol compared to others. When looking for specific relief with cannabis, it is helpful to know which strains contain a higher amount of Alpha-bisabolol.
You can find Alpha-bisabolol in the following strains:
Alpha-bisabolol is the main terpene in chamomile responsible for its sweet honey smell. It is also found in the bark of the Candeia tree in Brazil, which is endangered.
Alpha- bisabolol is also found in:
While Alpha-bisabolol is found in lower concentrations in the cannabis plant, it has many enticing applications for the cannabis consumer.
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