p-Cymene
Sharp citrus, woody
Terpene
What is p-cymene?
Para-cymene (p-cymene) is a monoterpene found in thyme, cumin, oregano, and eucalyptus. Its aroma is sharp and citrusy with a woody, slightly spicy finish — the smell behind many culinary herbs.
Effects
P-cymene is best known as the chemical precursor to thymol and carvacrol, the compounds that give thyme and oregano their punch. It carries anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial potential of its own. In cannabis it's usually present in trace amounts, adding a subtle citrus-woody note.
Research note
It rarely headlines a profile, but it's a common background terpene worth knowing on a COA. Studies have shown p-cymene produces anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperalgesic effects in rodents, and it shares the antinociceptive activity seen across the terpene family.
Conditions that cite this compound
These condition guides point here — they cover the same compound from the patient side.