Borneol Effects & Benefits
Cannabis enthusiasts are becoming more attuned to how the many different compounds in the cannabis plant—including the borneol terpene—impact their overall experience. The exact chemical makeup of each strain affects its aroma, flavor, and even its therapeutic effects.
Borneol has long played a part in traditional Chinese medicine, with written documentation of its use in reducing pain and swelling dating back to the 1500s. Western medicine is now clocking on to its myriad uses, making borneol a fascinating terpene to discover for scientists and cannabis connoisseurs alike.
What Is Borneol?
Borneol is a terpene that naturally occurs in several different plants. Its use to treat a range of ailments including muscle aches, itching, and bronchitis makes borneol an interesting terpene to study. However, its status as a secondary terpene in many cannabis strains means it's often overlooked.
Where Is Borneol Found in Nature?
Borneol is found in several store-cupboard staples like rosemary, thyme, and ginger, sunflowers, and as a secondary terpene in some cannabis strains. It's a key component in some essential oils, including thyme oil.
What Is the Aroma of Borneol?
Borneol has a fresh, herbal aroma that might remind you of eucalyptol. Cannabis strains containing borneol have a distinctive woody, menthol scent. Terpene enthusiasts who enjoy strains with a pungent, earthy aroma may enjoy strains that contain borneol. You can ask the staff in our Seattle, WA dispensaries for their top recommendations.
What Are the Effects and Benefits of Borneol?
Several effects and therapeutic benefits are linked with borneol, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.
Analgesic Effects
The efficacy of borneol as a pain reliever has been known anecdotally for some time. Studies have backed this up. For example, topical application of borneol has been seen to significantly reduce pain compared to a placebo.
Anti-Inflammatory
Many studies have investigated borneol's role in reducing the body's inflammatory response. A 2014 study reported that borneol alleviated lung inflammation by reducing inflammatory infiltration.
Borneol and Acne
Borneol's anti-inflammatory properties can be used for acne, an inflammatory disease that affects the skin. A 2020 study concluded that borneol had "significant" anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects on acne and also facilitates the healing of existing acne.
Inhibits Cancer Cell Growth
Several studies have shed light on borneol's ability to reduce cancer cell growth. For example, a 2013 study showed that borneol synergizes with selenocysteine to reduce the spread of liver cancer.
Aids the Efficacy of Other Medications
In traditional Chinese medicine, borneol is considered a drug that helps guide other medications to their target organs and the brain. A 2021 study reported that borneol helps other drugs pass through the blood-brain barrier, thus aiding their synergistic therapeutic effects.
Other Borneol Effects
Borneol offers several other therapeutic benefits:
Blood circulation benefits: Borneol dilates the subcutaneous capillaries which allows drugs to enter the bloodstream through the skin. This promotes the absorption of medications.
Neuroprotective effects: Borneol offers neuroprotective effects in different brain disorders by reducing neuroinflammation. This has implications for sufferers of epilepsy and the treatment of cerebral ischemic injury (damage that occurs when there isn’t enough blood flow to the brain).
Which Cannabis Strains Contain Borneol?
Borneol features in the following cannabis strains:
Amnesia Haze
Sativa-dominant hybrid, THC 21%, 0% CBD
Amnesia Haze offers a delicious citrusy, earthy flavor with notes of pine. Expect a strong cerebral high that uplifts, inspires, and sparks creativity. This strain is best enjoyed during the day or even in social settings for an added kick of energy and fun.
Golden Haze
Sativa-dominant hybrid, 23% THC, < 1% CBD
This potent strain is the perfect choice for anyone looking to experiment with borneol. Enjoy a mix of sweet and sour flavors with a hint of berries, a citrus tang, and a herbal aftertaste. This strain will leave you refreshed and uplifted with a relaxing yet euphoric high. Golden Haze is best for daytime use when you need a cerebral boost or a kick of positivity.
Hindu Kush
Indica, 20% THC, < 1% CBD
Hindu Kush is a legendary strain with an earthy, spicy flavor and hints of pine and citrus. These lemony notes create a refreshing, herbal kick that is perfect for relaxing at the end of a long day. Best consumed in the evening, Hindu Kush offers a strong, sedative high that will relax your body and mind and usher in a blissful night's sleep.
Borneol: The Next Step on Your Cannabis Journey
Cannabis enthusiasts are probably already aware of many of the most famous terpenes found in their favorite strains and the effects they can expect. However, borneol may be a new and welcome discovery for recreational and wellness-minded cannabis enthusiasts alike.
Offering an array of potential therapeutic benefits plus a rich flavor and aroma profile, borneol is a terpene that should be on consumers’ radars. Ask the staff in your local dispensary for borneol-containing strains to try.