Ocimene

Where it occurs naturally

A review of essential-oil chemistry reports ocimene, including β-ocimene, among constituents of oils from Alpinia species and Ocimum (basil) species. Oil composition varies by species and sample. Sources: An overview of the chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils from Alpinia genus

Aroma & flavour

Ocimene has been described as sweet, herbal and sometimes fruity. Its presence does not determine the aroma or taste of a particular cannabis product. Sources: Exploring Aroma and Flavor Diversity in Cannabis sativa L.—A Review

What has research actually studied?

An in-vitro study tested isolated β-ocimene against Leishmania amazonensis and RAW 264.7 macrophages. It reported IC50 2.78 μM for promastigotes, EC50 1.12 μM for axenic amastigotes, and CC50 114.5 μM for macrophages; assays indicated parasite-membrane changes. Sources: Cytotoxic and Antileishmanial Effects of the Monoterpene β-Ocimene

What the evidence does not show

These are cell and parasite assays, not animal or human outcomes. Results for β-ocimene do not establish effects of other ocimene isomers or of cannabis.

What does its presence in cannabis mean?

Do not infer an effect from ocimene's presence. No direct human research on cannabis products containing ocimene was identified; product aroma also depends on the full volatile mixture and processing.