p-Cymene is a natural aromatic compound found in many essential oils, including those from cannabis.
Also called / Category
Synonyms: para-cymene, cymene; Category: offset-4 transition-colors hover:underline" title="Learn more about Terpenes">Terpenes & Aromatics
Key takeaways
- p-Cymene is a common terpene in cannabis and other plants.
- It has a distinctive, pleasant aroma often described as citrusy and woody.
- Used in the perfume industry and as a food additive.
- Notable for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
What it is / How it shows up
p-Cymene is an aromatic compound you might notice in cannabis product descriptions or on Certificates of Analysis. It's a monoterpene, which means it contributes to the scent and flavour profile of the plant. You'll find p-Cymene in the essential oils of many plants, such as thyme, cumin, and cannabis. This terpene boasts a citrusy, woody aroma that enhances the overall fragrance of cannabis varieties. In addition to its aromatic qualities, p-Cymene is also known for its potential antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, making it valuable in both the food and perfume industries.
How it’s measured or identified
- Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)
- High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
- Infrared spectroscopy
- Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy
Use in context
- "The cannabis strain's citrusy aroma is due to its high p-Cymene content."
- "p-Cymene is responsible for the woody undertones in this essential oil blend."
- "This Certificate of Analysis lists p-Cymene as one of the primary terpenes."
Safety & compliance in Canada
- p-Cymene is generally recognized as safe when used in normal amounts.
- Ensure products containing p-Cymene meet Canadian regulations for labelling and purity.
Related terms / See also
FAQs
What does p-Cymene smell like? p-Cymene has a citrusy and woody aroma, contributing to the overall scent of many essential oils, including those from cannabis.
Is p-Cymene safe? Yes, p-Cymene is generally considered safe when used in typical amounts found in consumer products.
Where is p-Cymene found? p-Cymene is found in the essential oils of various plants, such as thyme, cumin, and cannabis, and is commonly used in the perfume industry.
Sources
- Health Canada
- PubChem
- National Center for Biotechnology Information