The Leaf THE LEAF May-June 2018 | Page 22

Camphene The best way to describe the smell of camphene is fir needles , musky earth , and damp woodlands . Camphene aroma is often mistaken with myrcene , which is that trademark marijuana smell as most of us know it .
From the medical point of view , camphene has great potential . When mixed with vitamin C , it becomes a powerful antioxidant .
It is widely used in conventional medicine as a topical for skin issues like eczema and psoriasis .
Its greatest potential lies in its ability to lower the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood , further lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases .
Borneol Borneol , with its herbal minty scent , can be found in herbs like rosemary , mint , and camphor .
This terpene is a good natural insect repellent which makes it great for preventing diseases like the West Nile virus , being passed by ticks , fleas , mosquitoes etc .
One study found that borneol kills breast cancer cells . It ’ s also widely used in Chinese
traditional medicine , in acupuncture to be precise .
Terpineol The aroma of terpineol can be best described as floral-like , reminiscent of lilacs , apple blossom , and a little bit citrusy . Terpineol tastes like anise and mint . Terpineol has a pleasant scent , similar to lilac , and is a common ingredient in perfumes , cosmetics , and flavours .
It relaxes heavily and it ’ s usually the one responsible for the notorious couch lock effect . Medical benefits of terpineol also include antibiotic and antioxidant properties .
Valencene This terpene got its name from sweet Valencia oranges — where it ’ s been found in large amounts . With its sweet citrusy aromas and flavours , it ’ s used as an insect repellent , too .
Geraniol Besides cannabis , geraniol can be found in lemons and tobacco . Its smell reminds of rose grass , peaches , and plums .
It ’ s usually used in aromatic bath products and body lotions .
Geraniol has shown a lot of potential as a neuroprotectant and antioxidant .