All About Farnesene

THC and CBD often dominate cannabis discussions. But, it’s the collective effort of hundreds of compounds that contribute to each strain's unique profile. 

Terpenes are one compound that significantly shapes a strain’s aroma, flavor, and the overall experience. While the focus often falls on dominant compounds, a myriad of lesser-known elements contribute to a strain’s nuanced effects. Farnesene is a prime example. 

What is Farnesene?

Terpenes are foundational to the overall cannabis experience. The aromatic molecules play significant roles in shaping a strain’s characteristics and the consumer experience. Several dominant terpenes are often found in significant amounts across cannabis cultivars. 

Farnesene is an example of a less prominent but still impactful terpene. The 15-carbon sesquiterpene belongs to a group of strong-smelling compounds found in plants, fungi, and marine organisms. Research has determined that while this terpene can produce antioxidant effects in lower doses, it and other compounds in its grouping can be harmful to cells at higher concentrations.¹

Farnesene exists alongside compounds like (Z,E)-α-farnesene, (E,E)-farnesol, and (E)-β-farnesene. The group of sesquiterpenes also includes 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one (6MH), the breakdown product from this very terpene. The compound may be best exemplified in apple skin, where its levels fluctuate while ripening and when placed in storage.²

What Does Farnesene Smell Like?

Farnesene’s smell is often described as a blend of green apple, woody, and citrusy notes, with subtle floral and herbal undertones present in some plant forms. In cannabis, one of the terpene’s known effects is its contribution to the overall aroma profile of the strain, providing complexity and depth via an array of commonly enjoyed notes found in cannabis. 

Effects and Benefits of Farnesene

Select research has found that this terpene demonstrates the ability to provide therapeutic benefits to several symptoms and conditions. It works alongside hundreds of other compounds found in each strain, producing effects that many believe to be the optimal result: the entourage effect.

Some of the reported effects and properties farnesene may have include:

Anti-inflammatory 

Several studies report that farnesene demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting it may be beneficial in inflammation-based conditions. These include arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and sleep-related issues via pain relief.³ 

Neuroprotective

Farnesene’s potential neuroprotective properties have been noted in various cell studies. Researchers note that the compound has demonstrated potential against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's. The neuroprotective effect created may be related to its anti-inflammatory properties, and its possible protection of brain cells.⁴

Tooth Decay

Research has found that eucalyptus extracts can fight cavity-causing bacteria. One of the active ingredients causing the effect is alpha-farnesene.⁵

At this time, each study, as promising as the research may be, requires additional research to confirm their current findings. What we know is that benefits linked to the terpene have been reported. While they also require additional analysis, reports suggest that it could help with: 

• Cramps.
• Spasms.
• Skin irritation.
• Anti-bacterial gut protection.

What Other Plants Contain Farnesene?

Farnesene is found in a variety of plant life, far beyond cannabis. The compound may play a part in creating numerous unique aromas and potential therapeutic benefits. 

Some of the plant life containing the terpene include:

Apple

Farnesene is a major component in an apple’s smell. The specific compound credited with the fresh, fruity aroma is (E, E)-α-farnesene, which is commonly found in nature. In addition to creating an apple’s fragrance, this terpene also serves as a vital part of the fruit’s life, attracting pollinators, protecting it from pests and diseases, and serving as a guide for fire ants on working trails. 

Kiwi

Like apples, the (E, E)-α-farnesene in kiwifruit flowers helps attract pollinators while providing the plant with defense from pests and diseases. These effects can also be found in pear fruits. 

Perilla

Present only in perilla, (Z, E)-α-farnesene has been reported to operate like an alarm pheromone for termites and codling moths.

Eucalyptus Trees

Researchers have found that the alpha-farnesene in eucalyptus helps fight against cavity-causing bacteria.

What Conditions Can Farnesene Help With?

Research into farnesene’s effects are ongoing. Analysis so far identified the sesquiterpene for its potential benefit on many conditions, including:

Anxiety Disorders

Farnesene’s reported anti-anxiety effects may offer relief to individuals with anxiety disorders. If accurate, it may help reduce anxiety symptoms while also potentially promoting relaxation. The increased relaxation and anti-anxiety effect is believed to help improve sleep quality in some individuals. 

Inflammatory Conditions

The reported anti-inflammatory properties found in farnesene suggest that the compound may be beneficial in managing inflammation-based conditions. These might include arthritis, cramps, and inflammatory bowel disease, potentially providing relief to a large range of painful conditions. 

Neurodegenerative Diseases

Farnesene’s reported neuroprotective effects may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The compound protects the immune system by helping keep the body’s immune response balanced. The effect is created by slowing down rushing "soldier" cells and reducing swelling.

Anyone interested in using this terpene or cannabis in general for medical treatment should first consult with a trusted medical professional to best understand the potential benefits and risks. 

Best Strains for Farnesene

Farnesene contributes to a range of strains’ unique smells, flavors and effects, making for a potentially appealing option to recreational and medical consumers alike. 

Much like plant strains, each person is unique, containing a variety of preferences and needs. As such, picking the top strains featuring this terpene isn’t as easy as it seems. With a number to choose from, each consumers’ list will likely vary. 

That said, some of the more standout strains featuring the terpene include:

Cherry Punch

A hybrid strain offering a relaxing and euphoric experience, with a touch of focus often reported. With a sweet cherry aroma complemented by subtle hints of spice and earthiness, the terpene's presence may be most noted in its calming and uplifting effects.

White Rhino

This indica-dominant strain is known for its relaxing, sedative effects, making it ideal for sleep. While known for its calming results, White Rhino may also lead to giggle fits and increased hunger, which may work against sleep. 

Titan

This slightly indica-dominant strain provides relaxing body highs and often feelings of sleepiness. Known to ease anxieties, Titan and its aroma-heavy profile may also spark a consumer's creative energy. 

Milky Way

This is a heavy indica-leaning strain, offering feelings of relaxation, sleep and sometimes hunger. It features a sweet-meets-spicy aroma, containing notes of menthol, mint, and tobacco in its flavor profile.  

Dutch Treat Haze

A hybrid strain known for delivering potent head highs, feelings of creative energy, and elevated moods. Combining earthy, flowers, and citrus in its flavors, Dutch Treat Haze is often associated with uplifted feelings and boosted energy.

References

1. Çeli̇k K, Toğar B, Türkez H, Taşpinar N. In vitro cytotoxic, genotoxic, and oxidative effects of acyclic sesquiterpene farnesene. Turkish Journal Of Biology. 2014;38:253-259. doi:https://doi.org/10.3906/biy-1309-55 ↩︎
2. Souleyre EJF, Bowen JK, Matich AJ, et al. Genetic control of α‐farnesene production in apple fruit and its role in fungal pathogenesis. The Plant Journal. 2019;100(6):1148-1162. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/tpj.14504 ↩︎
3. Schepetkin IA, Özek G, Özek T, Kirpotina LN, Khlebnikov AI, Klein RA, Quinn MT. Neutrophil Immunomodulatory Activity of Farnesene, a Component of Artemisia dracunculus Essential Oils. Pharmaceuticals. 2022; 15(5):642. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15050642 ↩︎
4. Arslan ME, Türkez H, Mardinoğlu A. In vitro neuroprotective effects of farnesene sesquiterpene on alzheimer’s disease model of differentiated neuroblastoma cell line. International Journal of Neuroscience. 2020;131(8):745-754. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/00207454.2020.1754211 ↩︎
5. Ishnava KB, Chauhan JB, Barad MB. Anticariogenic and phytochemical evaluation of Eucalyptus globules Labill. Saudi J Biol Sci. 2013;20(1):69-74. doi:10.1016/j.sjbs.2012.11.003 ↩︎

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.