Ocimene

Ocimene is a group of acyclic monoterpene hydrocarbons (C₁₀H₁₆) that exist in multiple isomeric forms (α-ocimene and β-ocimene). These compounds are found throughout the plant kingdom in a wide variety of fruits and flowers, contributing sweet, herbal, and woody aromatic notes. Ocimene is notably unstable when exposed to air, which means it evaporates quickly and contributes to the “first impression” aroma of a cannabis strain.

In nature, ocimene appears to serve a defensive function for plants, with documented antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It is structurally related to myrcene but with a different arrangement of double bonds. In cannabis, ocimene-containing strains tend to have complex, layered aromatic profiles and are associated with uplifting, decongestant-like effects.