Gamma-Terpinene
Citrus, antioxidant — common minor
Terpene
What is gamma-terpinene?
Gamma-terpinene is one of the more common minor terpenes in cannabis, found in citrus peel, cumin, and juniper. Its aroma is fresh, citrusy, and slightly herbal — lighter and cleaner than alpha-terpinene.
Effects
Gamma-terpinene is a standout antioxidant, and it shares the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity common to the terpene family. It's also a chemical stepping stone toward p-cymene, another minor terpene. On a COA it's a good sign of citrus-forward, fresh-smelling flower.
Research note
Evidence is largely preclinical, but its antioxidant reputation is among the stronger minor-terpene stories. An ACS study of monoterpenes found gamma-terpinene more effective than alpha-terpinene at protecting against lipid peroxidation, and a 2021 Food Chemistry study confirmed its synergic antioxidant behavior — which is why it's the terpinene with the most antioxidant buzz.
Conditions that cite this compound
These condition guides point here — they cover the same compound from the patient side.