Farnesene

Farnesene is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene that is part of the larger class of terpenes, which are volatile, aromatic hydrocarbons found extensively in the plant kingdom. Within the context of cannabis, farnesene contributes to the complex aroma profile of certain cannabis strains, imparting a green apple-like scent that is nuanced with earthy and woody undertones. The presence of farnesene, along with other terpenes, is not merely a determinant of olfactory characteristics but also plays a role in the entourage effect, a proposed mechanism by which various compounds in cannabis, including cannabinoids and terpenes, interact synergistically to modulate the plant’s overall pharmacological effects. Farnesene, like other terpenes, is biosynthesized in cannabis through the mevalonate pathway or the methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway, starting from the linkage of isoprene units. Its structural configuration allows it to participate in the defense mechanisms of the plant, potentially exhibiting anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. The study of farnesene within cannabis research not only enhances understanding of strain-specific attributes but also holds potential for the discovery of novel therapeutic applications.