Alpha-Terpinene
Citrus-lemony, herbaceous
Terpene
What is alpha-terpinene?
Alpha-terpinene is a monoterpene found in cardamom, marjoram, coriander, and tea tree oil. Its aroma is lemony and herbaceous — bright citrus with a green, slightly spicy edge.
Effects
Alpha-terpinene carries the familiar antioxidant and antimicrobial activity shared across the terpinene family, and it's also a biosynthetic stepping stone toward gamma-terpinene. In cannabis it usually appears in small amounts, contributing a light citrus note alongside the more dominant terpenes.
Research note
Its role in a strain is subtle rather than dramatic — expect a background brightness, not a defining aroma. A 2018 study of essential oil terpenes confirmed strong antibacterial and antioxidant activity for alpha-terpinene, matching the reputation of the terpinene family.
Conditions that cite this compound
These condition guides point here — they cover the same compound from the patient side.