Ocimene and Bisabolol: Sweet, Floral Terpenes of the Cannabis Plant

Not all cannabis terpenes are as well-known as myrcene, limonene or caryophyllene – but that doesn't make them less interesting. Ocimene and bisabolol are two terpenes that occur in numerous cannabis strains and contribute to olfactory complexity and possibly to the effect profile.

## Ocimene: Sweet, Fruity, Floral Terpene

Chemistry and occurrence: Ocimene (also known as ocymene) is a monoterpene found in numerous plants, including mint, parsley, orchids, basil and – as its namesake – sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum). There are several isomeric forms: cis-β-ocimene, trans-β-ocimene and the less common α-ocimene.

Smell profile: Sweet, slightly fruity, sometimes with woody-herby undertones. Ocimene is more volatile than many other terpenes – it evaporates quickly at room temperature. In the aroma of a cannabis strain, ocimene contributes freshness and sweetness without being as dominant as myrcene or limonene.

In cannabis: Ocimene is a secondary terpene – rarely dominant, but often present in relevant amounts. Strains such as Clementine, Space Queen, J1, Strawberry Cough and Green Crack contain notable ocimene content.

Possible properties: - Antiviral: Laboratory studies show antiviral properties against various viruses. Practical relevance in the cannabis context is unclear. - Antifungal: Ocimene shows in vitro activity against fungal infections. - Decongestant: Some sources describe decongestant properties – similar to related terpenes from eucalyptus and mint.

Clinical studies in humans are almost entirely absent. The described properties come mainly from preclinical research.

In combination: In fruity, sweet strains, ocimene often combines with limonene and terpinolene. This combination creates light, fresh, uplifting effect profiles.

## Bisabolol: Chamomile Scent from the Cannabis Plant

Chemistry and occurrence: Bisabolol (also α-bisabolol) is a sesquiterpene with a characteristic, delicate chamomile aroma. It is the main active ingredient in chamomile flower extract (Matricaria chamomilla) and has been used in cosmetics and medicine for centuries. Bisabolol is also found in birch bark, candeia wood and – naturally – in certain cannabis strains.

Smell profile: Delicately floral, slightly sweet, barely perceptibly sharp. Bisabolol has one of the most discreet aroma profiles among terpenes – it is a subtle undertone carrier that rounds out other aromas without becoming dominant itself.

In cannabis: Bisabolol is rarely the dominant terpene, but present in small amounts in many strains. Higher bisabolol content is found in: ACDC (CBD-rich), Pink Kush, Master Kush, Headband and some OG derivatives.

Possible properties: - Skin care and anti-irritant: Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties, bisabolol has been established in cosmetics (creams, lotions, after-sun products) for decades. It reduces redness and soothes irritated skin. - Anti-inflammatory: In laboratory studies, bisabolol shows anti-inflammatory effects similar to those of the chamomile plant. - Anxiolytic: Chamomile – and thus bisabolol – is traditionally used as a calming remedy for anxiety and restlessness. Early studies suggest a direct anxiolytic effect, comparable to linalool. - Analgesic: Some preclinical studies describe pain-relieving properties. - Antimicrobial: Bisabolol shows in vitro antimicrobial properties.

In combination: In strains like ACDC, where CBD and bisabolol are both present, a relaxing, calming effect profile is reported without strong sedation.

## How to Identify These Terpenes

Since ocimene and bisabolol are rarely dominant, they are best recognised in combination with other terpenes. A cannabis strain with a limonene-ocimene-terpinolene profile will smell sweetly-fruity-fresh. A strain with a CBD-linalool-bisabolol profile will smell floral, creamy and slightly chamomile-like.

For targeted strain selection by terpene profile, you'll find the complete analyses in our strain database – including secondary components such as ocimene and bisabolol.