Humulene is a terpene found in cannabis that contributes to its aromatic profile, often described as earthy, woody, or spicy.

Also called / Category:

Alpha-humulene, Humulene; Terpenes & Aromatics

Key takeaways:

  • Humulene is responsible for the earthy, woody, and spicy aromas in cannabis.

  • It is found in hops, which are used to flavour beer.

  • Humulene is also present in cloves and basil.

  • This terpene is often highlighted in cannabis strain reviews for its distinctive scent.

What it is / How it shows up:

Humulene is a common terpene found in various cannabis strains, and you may often see it listed on store menus or Certificates of Analysis. This terpene is known for its earthy and spicy aroma, reminiscent of hops, which are also rich in humulene. It is naturally occurring in plants like cloves and basil, contributing to their distinct scents. In the cannabis world, humulene is valued not only for its aromatic properties but also for its potential effects. Consumers frequently look for strains with high levels of humulene to enhance their sensory experience.

How it’s measured or identified:

  • Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)

  • High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

  • Listed in terpene profiles on strain analysis reports

Use in context:

  • "This strain has a high humulene content, giving it a woody aroma."

  • "The earthy scent of this cannabis comes from its humulene terpene."

  • "I prefer strains with humulene for their unique aroma."

Safety & compliance in Canada:

  • Humulene is a naturally occurring terpene and is generally regarded as safe.

  • Products containing humulene must comply with Canadian labelling regulations.

  • Always purchase from licensed retailers to ensure product safety and quality.

Related terms / See also:

Hybrid, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), Terp profile, Clove, Sabinene

FAQs:

What is humulene? Humulene is a terpene found in cannabis, known for its earthy and spicy aroma. It is also present in hops, cloves, and basil.

How does humulene affect cannabis aroma? Humulene contributes to the earthy, woody, and spicy scent profile of cannabis strains, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

Is humulene safe? Yes, humulene is generally recognized as safe and is naturally found in various plants, including cannabis and hops.

Sources:

Cannabis Glossary

Learn more cannabis terms