Carene

Carene, specifically Δ3-carene, is a bicyclic monoterpene that is found in various essential oils, including the oil derived from Cannabis sativa. This compound is characterized by the presence of two isoprene units, resulting in a molecular structure with a distinctive arrangement of carbon atoms forming two fused rings. Carene is known for its sweet and pungent odor, which contributes to the aromatic profile of cannabis. In the context of cannabis, carene is one of the minor terpenes that may play a role in the entourage effect, a proposed mechanism by which various compounds in cannabis, including cannabinoids and terpenes, act synergistically to modulate the plant’s overall psychoactive and therapeutic effects. The specific properties of carene, such as its potential anti-inflammatory effects, are subjects of scientific investigation, aiming to elucidate its impact on the pharmacological and sensory experiences associated with cannabis consumption.