Cannabis Basics
Pinene Terpene: Effects, Flavours and Cannabis Strains
Pinene, also called alpha-pinene or α-pinene, is the most common terpene in nature, and one of the most commonly found in cannabis plants.
Last updated March 27, 2025 | Published on January 13, 2021
Our terpene spotlight is an in-depth exploration of the 5 most common terpenes found in cannabis: myrcene, limonene, linalool and beta-caryophyllene.
In case you forgot — terpenes are fragrant oils found in plants (not just cannabis) that produce a unique taste and smell. One of the reasons for pinene’s abundance in nature is that it’s found in coniferous trees such as fir, pine and spruce which are found on 11% of the earth’s surface.
Find common products, cannabis strains and how to identify this terpene in nature and learn about the properties of pinene and its taste, smell and potential effects.
What does pinene smell like?
There’s a reason the pine tree is the iconic shape of old school car air fresheners. Pinene hits your senses with a crisp, woody freshness. When inhaled, pinene triggers what’s called a trigeminal response — a tingling or cooling sensation in the nose. However, you likely won’t experience this cooling sensation when smoking cannabis.
Interestingly, two variants of pinene contribute differently to fresh, green terpene profiles. Alpha-pinene is found in pine needles and rosemary, while beta-pinene is found in herbs like basil, dill and parsley.
In combination with other terpenes, pinene often contributes to earthy, herbal or woody-smelling cannabis strains.
What does pinene taste like?
Pinene is present in a lot of the heavy-hitting herbs that enhance foods. It’s earthy and resinous with woody undertones and a subtle bitterness that brightens citrus and cuts through rich or fatty meats and sauces.
In cannabis, pinene contrasts with sweeter terpenes like myrcene and linalool to create a balanced bouquet. To preserve its flavour when vaping, aim for temperatures around 313°F (156°C).
Where is pinene found?
Pinene is a force in nature, working hard to protect plants from pests, pollutants and injury. Its antimicrobial properties help the plant fight off fungi and bacteria. Pinene also signals nearby plants to do the same in a process called systemic acquired resistance.
Natural sources of pinene (besides cannabis) include:
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pine, cedar, spruce, fir and other coniferous trees
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Australian tea tree
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rosemary
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sage
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basil
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parsley
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dill
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eucalyptus
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citrus fruits, primarily in the peels
In commercial products, we use these same properties to our benefit. Pinene’s antimicrobial effects are used in household cleaners to disinfect surfaces and help the body fight pathogens. Just like it seals wounds in plants, it’s formulated into polymers and adhesives. It’s often included as a singular ingredient, or as part of essential oils, in products like:
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turpentine
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disinfectants
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perfumes and colognes
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air fresheners
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gin
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soothing creams and balms
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cough medicines
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herbal teas
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seasoning blends
What are the reported effects of pinene?
It’s too soon to say what the effects of pinene in cannabis are on humans. In one 1993 study, a pinene extract produced a sedative effect on mice; another from 2014 showed that when pinene was given to mice with hay fever, their symptoms improved. While both studies are interesting, there is not enough evidence to determine with certainty that the same result would be achieved in humans.
It’s important to remember that while there is some promising research on the potential therapeutic benefits associated with pinene, they haven’t been proven in humans and do not eliminate the risks associated with consuming cannabis. Always start low and go slow.
Distinct and versatile, invigorating pinene is found throughout our forests, herb gardens, medicine cabinets and more. It’s prevalent but subtle, so finding strains where pinene shines takes a little know-how, but it’s well worth the effort. There's still much to discover about how pinene interacts with other cannabis compounds and its potential effects.
