Camphene is a bicyclic monoterpene with a distinctive damp woodland scent reminiscent of fir needles and camphor. Before the development of modern chemistry, camphene was used as fuel in oil lamps due to its high energy content. Today, it is found in camphor, fir needles, nutmeg, rosemary, and numerous cannabis cultivars where it contributes earthy, herbal character to strain profiles.
Camphene has attracted significant research interest for its potential cardiovascular benefits. A study published in PLoS ONE demonstrated that camphene significantly reduced plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels in hyperlipidemic rats, suggesting potential applications for managing cardiovascular risk factors. Unlike conventional statins, camphene achieved these lipid-lowering effects without liver toxicity. Additional research has confirmed its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
In terpene formulation, camphene provides a grounding, forest-like base note that adds natural depth to blends. It is structurally similar to pinene but produces a warmer, more camphor-like aroma. Camphene works particularly well in earthy, woody blend profiles and is an important component of many OG and Kush-type strain formulations.