3-carene Terpenes are organic components responsible for the unique aroma and flavor of plants. There are over 20,000 varieties of terpenes; some produce fruity scents, while others give off an earthy musk.
Aside from their interesting scents, terpenes are also known for their medical effects. They’re a huge part of essential oils used for alternative medicine and beauty products. Usually, people encounter terpenes when they eat herbs, fruits, and vegetables. During aromatherapy, there are terpenes in the air as well.
Terpenes are everywhere in nature and many different products, and their distinct characteristics come with health benefits. Since there are many kinds of terpenes, understanding them bit by bit can help identify which terpene is best for one’s needs and wants. For today’s featured terpene, this article will focus on 3-Carene.
3-Carene Terpene Profile
A bicyclic monoterpene, 3-carene, is also known as delta 3-carene or simply carene. It exudes an attractive aroma that’s woodsy and citrusy with pine undertones. When individuals walk through a forest or cook with common herbs, they’re most likely encountering 3-carene. This terpene is produced by cedar trees, pine trees, basil, pepper, fennel, kumquat, lime, and rosemary.

Regarding its flavor, 3-carene is lemony, which is best paired with beverages like tea or an energy drink. For food, it’s a great addition to amplifying sweet and savory tastes. One can have 3-carene with salads or salmon.
Benefits
3-carene offers a unique experience to those who try it. People associate this terpene with various health benefits, from physical remedies to mental support. Here are some of its known perks:
Combats inflammation
Researchers first discovered the anti-inflammatory properties of 3-carene during the 1980s. In a study published on Die Pharmazie, researchers found that “the essential oil of the Cázulas Mountains population was most active against acute inflammation owing to its high delta 3-carene content.”
In a 2019 study by the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, the report concluded that 3-carene is an effective treatment for traumatic injuries and chronic pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties and antinociceptive effects.
Knowing 3-carene’s relation to anti-inflammation, most people use it to relieve conditions like bursitis, fibromyalgia, and arthritis. However, further studies are still needed for conclusive evidence. Recent studies suggest that carene can help with reducing edema or swelling.
Improves memory
3-carene is also seen as a hopeful remedy for enhancing and stimulating memory. There are limited studies that support this claim. However, many people believe that it can help with degenerative memory disorders like dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Repairs bones
Beyond anti-inflammation, bone repair is also a popular effect of 3-carene. According to Phytotherapy Research, 3-carene can positively impact bone health. This terpene showed potential in fixing damaged and diseased bones, which can boost one’s recovery in terms of bone healing.
The study also found that 3-carene increases mineralization or the incorporation of calcium into bones, supporting overall bone health. With its bone-strengthening properties, 3-carene shows promise in helping people with osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, or other bone diseases.
Dries out liquids
Another known effect of 3-carene is its drying capabilities. It can dry out extra bodily fluids like saliva, mucosa, tears, sweat, and even menstrual blood. Because of its drying effect, it’s a go-to terpene for antihistamine use. If a person has a runny nose, this terpene may help. Some products with are used to target excessive mucus production and menstruation.
As per anecdotal reports, it can also dry the mouth or throat when one consumes it. There are no reported toxic effects on this terpene. However, when taken in concentrations beyond the recommended dosages, an individual can experience mild irritation to the respiratory tract.
Enhances sleep
Generally, monoterpenes have anxiolytic, hypnotic, and sedative effects. As a monoterpene, it’s also has sleep-enhancing properties. According to the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, researchers concluded that this terpene “has potential as a hypnotic drug in pharmacological therapy.”
Another study reported that “it increases the sleep duration and reduces sleep latency.” The research also adds that apart from this terpenes’ hypnotic effect, it’s also an anti-oxidant and anti-stress.
Researchers suggest that one can take advantage of the beneficial effects of 3-carene through forest bathing, inhaling pine essential oils, and oral supplements. They add, “We propose 3-carene as an excellent therapeutic agent for patients having sleep disorders or anxiety.”
Care for Your Body with 3-Carene
One can find almost everywhere, and its uses go beyond scent enhancers and flavor additives. Multiple studies investigate this terpene’s ability to fight systemic inflammation, repair diseased and damaged bones, improve memory, dry out excess bodily fluids, and improve sleep quality.
Understanding the individual characteristics of terpenes will allow people to make the best decision in choosing the perfect terpene that matches their preferences. When purchasing top-quality terpenes, trust authentic manufacturers like Medical Terpenes.
Visit Medical Terpenes today to choose from a wide variety of terpenes at great prices!