What kind of terpene is borneol?

Borneol is a potent, minty-scented cannabis terpene. It might not be as famous as some of its terpene cousins, but borneol is a true powerhouse; it packs stress-relieving, anti-inflammatory, sleep-promoting, and neuroprotective properties.

Borneol is commonly found in sativa-dominant hybrid strains. Hybrid weed offers complex terpene profiles where borneol truly excels. It synergizes with other cannabis compounds, participating in the powerful entourage effect to maximize the plant's therapeutic potential.

Get a taste of the entourage effect and borneol’s therapeutic effects with our low-dose cannabis edibles.

How does borneol make you feel?

Borneol is a bicyclic organic compound and a terpene alcohol found in many plants, including cannabis. Chemically, it's a monoterpene with the molecular formula C10H18O. Borneol acts on GABA receptors in the brain to produce its calming and pain-relieving effects. It also interacts with other neurotransmitter systems, influencing mood and cognition. 

Borneol offers a range of potential benefits that add to the overall impact of cannabis. 

• Borneol has calming effects that reduce stress and anxiety.
• Its sedative properties improve sleep quality and ease the symptoms of insomnia.
• Borneol has shown antimicrobial properties that fight certain types of harmful bacteria.
• Borneol has analgesic properties. It may reduce different types of pain, such as inflammatory and neuropathic pain.
• Borneol also reduces inflammation, easing chronic inflammation. According to Bansod, et. al., borneol blocks the production of substances that cause inflammation and activates the body's natural antioxidant defenses while suppressing inflammatory pathways.
• Terpenes such as borneol are some of the most potent antioxidants found in cannabis. Borneol protects cells from oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals and boosting the body's antioxidant systems.
• Borneol protects brain cells while improving cognitive function. A 2021 study theorizes that borneol protects neurons from damage during ischemic stroke by improving blood flow, reducing excitotoxicity, and combating oxidative stress in the acute stage. In later stages, borneol helps repair brain tissue by promoting neurogenesis (creation of new brain cells).
• Borneol improves digestion and helps with gastrointestinal discomfort. It helps your body absorb medicines and nutrients by controlling a special protein that affects absorption. Chinese researchers found that L-borneol (a specific form of borneol) prevents harmful bacteria from sticking to your gut, improving the overall function of your digestive system.

Borneol is a highly volatile compound; it easily evaporates at room temperature. This volatility means it can act as a natural penetration enhancer, increasing the bioavailability of other compounds it's combined with. Its volatility also contributes to its strong, camphor-like aroma and allows it to be readily absorbed when inhaled or applied topically. 

What does borneol taste like?

Borneol has a distinctive taste often described as minty and camphor-like, with a cool, slightly bitter flavor. It has hints of pine and eucalyptus, giving it a sharp, somewhat spicy edge similar to menthol or a milder version of Vicks VapoRub. A woody, resinous quality adds depth, and some people notice a slight sweetness beneath the initial bitterness. The taste lingers, leaving a clean, refreshing sensation in the mouth, much like peppermint but with a unique twist. 

The taste can be quite strong and medicinal, which is why it's often used in small amounts as a flavoring agent. In cannabis, borneol contributes to the overall flavor profile, adding a fresh, cooling note that blends with other terpenes. 

What are the medicinal uses of borneol?

Because of its diverse pharmacological properties, borneol has been used for hundreds of years in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Asia. Its ability to facilitate the permeation of active compounds through the blood-brain barrier enhances its medicinal properties, improving the delivery of its therapeutic agents.

Here are some well-known medicinal applications of borneol:

• Borneol has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to treat stroke and improve cerebral blood flow. It's often combined with other herbs to enhance effectiveness and absorption.
• Borneol is a key ingredient in many pain-relieving ointments and balms. Its cooling effect and skin penetration effectively alleviate muscle aches, joint pain, and minor injuries.
• The strong, camphor-like scent of borneol is used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety and promote relaxation. It's often diffused or added to massage oils.
• Because of its antimicrobial properties, borneol is used in many oral care products. It fights bacteria that causes bad breath and gum disease.
• In herbal medicine, borneol treats gastrointestinal issues. It reduces bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort when taken orally in small doses.
• Borneol is a common ingredient in chest rubs and inhalants. Its strong aroma clears nasal passages and eases breathing difficulties associated with colds and allergies.
• When applied to the skin, borneol reduces inflammation. It's used for minor skin irritations and inflammations.
• Borneol's strong scent makes it an effective ingredient in natural insect repellents, often combined with essential oils.
• While not strictly medicinal properties, borneol has aromatherapeutic benefits in perfumes and cosmetics. It enhances mood and relieves stress.

At nama™, borneol is a staple terpene. Our organic hybrid cannabis contains borneol along with other terpenes, CBD, and THC to maximize their benefits and boost the entourage effect. The entourage effect is the idea that cannabis compounds work better together than in isolation. In this team effort, Delta 9 THC, cannabidiol (CBD), terpenes, and other cannabinoids combine forces to produce stronger, more well-rounded effects than any one component could on its own.

Experience the entourage effect with our Euphoria gummies. Choose from several flavors that tantalize your taste buds and deliver a balanced combination of 10 mg of THC and 10 mg of CBD. These hybrid edibles harness borneol's soothing properties to help you feel at ease and mildly euphoric.

“If [you’re looking for] the feeling of your body totally going into relax mode... these are what you want!”

—Jane E.

Is borneol safe?

When used in typical amounts found in cannabis products, aromatherapy, or topical applications, borneol is well-tolerated by most people. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes it as safe for use as a food additive and flavoring agent. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine without adverse effects, which further supports its safety profile. 

While safe in normal doses, it can be toxic in very high amounts. A 2023 study on zebrafish larvae suggests that high doses of borneol can cause liver damage and disrupt lipid metabolism. Excessive borneol exposure led to decreased liver size, increased liver enzymes, and abnormal lipid accumulation. 

Such high levels are rarely encountered in the typical usage of cannabis or herbal products. 

As a general rule, use borneol and borneol-containing products as directed and in moderation. As with any substance, caution is advised if you have known allergies or sensitivities to terpenes or you’re breastfeeding or pregnant. 

Potential side effects of borneol

Borneol is safe when used in typical amounts, but higher doses may lead to unpleasant side effects. These effects don't necessarily indicate toxicity but can cause discomfort or health concerns for some people. 

Here are some potential side effects of borneol:

• Skin irritation or allergic reactions when applied topically
• Gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea or stomach upset
• Headaches or dizziness, especially when used in aromatherapy or inhaled
• Liver stress or damage if consumed in extremely high doses over prolonged periods
• Potential interactions with certain medications, particularly those metabolized by the liver
• Drowsiness or sedation
• Respiratory irritation if inhaled in large amounts

Smoking or vaping cannabis containing borneol can hit you harder and faster than other ways of consumption. When you inhale, the borneol goes straight to your bloodstream, which intensifies its effect. The heat from smoking or vaping can also change borneol's structure, further increasing its potency. 

If you're new to borneol or sensitive to strong aromas, you might want to start with a gentler method—our low-dose gummies and cannabis-infused drinks are your best bet. They make it easy to control how much you're taking so you don't accidentally overdo it. 

Gummies take a bit longer to kick in, so you're less likely to get hit with sudden, intense effects that might catch you off guard. 

Ditch inhaling and irresponsible consumption, and turn to our Energy Delta 9 gummies. With a gentle blend of 2.5 mg of THC and 5 mg of CBD, these gummies offer a balanced, soothing effect that showcases borneol's calming and uplifting properties. 

“The energy gummies are great. I have energy and am more motivated. I am a beginner so I take a half and it works great for me. I feel focused and not high at all.”

—Lindsey H.

Strains rich in borneol terpene

Borneol is more commonly found in sativa-dominant hybrids, where it contributes to their energizing and uplifting effects. It’s less commonly found in indica-dominant strains. Hybrid stains offer the best of both worlds, combining the energizing effects of sativas with the relaxing properties of indicas. 

Hybrid strains provide a nuanced experience, where you can enjoy borneol's health benefits without leaning too far into either extreme. Plus, hybrids tend to have more complex terpene profiles, which enhance the entourage effect and provide a richer, more well-rounded experience.

Here are some hybrid strains rich in borneol:

1. Haze
2. K13
3. Golden Haze
4. OG Kush
5. Amnesia Haze
6. Super Silver Haze
7. Jack Herer
8. Blue Dream

At nama™, we've taken the guesswork out of finding the perfect borneol-rich strain. Our cannabis products harness the power of hybrids, carefully balancing borneol with other beneficial terpenes and cannabinoids. This means you get to experience borneol's unique benefits—from its refreshing aroma to its therapeutic effects—in a perfectly calibrated blend. 

No need to hunt for specific strains; we've crafted the ideal borneol experience into every product.

Order the best hybrid edibles

Looking for hybrid cannabis products rich in beneficial terpenes like borneol? We got you covered. Our cannabis gummies and THC-infused drinks offer the perfect balance of effects, providing a soothing and relaxing experience.

We've crafted unique recipes that combine calming terpenes, with a focus on borneol for its potential anxiety-reducing and sleep-promoting properties. Our products use only high-quality, hemp-derived extracts, ensuring a consistent and effective experience every time. Whether you're seeking stress relief or better sleep, our borneol-rich formulations help you unwind and find balance.

Our gummies are a convenient on-the-go option, but for a more customizable experience, try our low-dose Buzz Drops™. With just 2.5 mg of THC per dropper, balanced by an equal amount of CBD and a carefully selected terpene profile, they create a gentle, relaxing effect that highlights borneol's calming properties.

Interested in exploring more? Learn how to craft THC mocktails and discover the benefits of microdosing cannabis with our products.

Resources

Bansod S, Chilvery S, Saifi MA, Das TJ, Tag H, Godugu C. Borneol protects against cerulein-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in acute pancreatitis mice model. Environ Toxicol. 2021 Apr;36(4):530-539. doi: 10.1002/tox.23058. Epub 2020 Nov 9. PMID: 33166053.

Li, Y., Ren, M., Wang, J., Ma, R., Chen, H., Xie, Q., Li, H., Li, J., & Wang, J. (2021). Progress in Borneol Intervention for Ischemic Stroke: A Systematic Review. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.606682

Ma, R., Lu, D., Wang, J., Xie, Q., & Guo, J. (2023). Comparison of pharmacological activity and safety of different stereochemical configurations of borneol: L-borneol, D-borneol, and synthetic borneol. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 164, 114668. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114668

Liu L, Yang Y, Yang F, Lin Y, Liu K, Wang X, Zhang Y. A mechanistic investigation about hepatoxic effects of borneol using zebrafish. Hum Exp Toxicol. 2023 Jan-Dec;42:9603271221149011. doi: 10.1177/09603271221149011. PMID: 36594174.

Further reading

Does hybrid weed have side effects?

Why is hybrid cannabis great for triggering the entourage effect?

Is hybrid stronger than sativa?

Does Delta 9 stimulate appetite?

Are THC drinks legal?

The best way to store edibles

How do edibles relieve sciatic pain?

Can you get a headache from edibles?

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