Ocimene

Ocimene is a terpene that conveys an aroma that is sweet and herbaceous, with citrus and wood undertones.

Ocimene is produced by many plants other than hemp, including basil, bergamot, hops (which also produces humulene and myrcene), kumquats, lavender, mangoes, orchids, oregano, and pepper.

This terpene has been found to exhibit antiviral and anti-inflammatory benefits. For these reasons, it may be effective in treating conditions ranging from diabetes to arthritis to fibromyalgia. 

A 2014 study entitled “Chemical Composition and Anti-inflammation Activity of Essential Oils from Citrus Unshiu Flower” states, “The results indicate that [ocimene]…was shown to suppress the production of inflammatory cytokines, including…tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha. Based on these results, [ocimene] may be considered a potential anti-inflammatory candidate with human health benefits.”

A 2013 study examined the antioxidant properties of a group of terpenes, including ocimene, myrcene, and pinene, and their potential role in treating type-2 diabetes. 

The study reported, “Conclusively…[the] antioxidant activity by the essential oil extract of black pepper could be part of the mechanism by which the essential oil could manage and/or prevent type-2 diabetes and hypertension.”