Alpha Pinene

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Other names: α-Pinene, alpha-pinene, 2-Pinene, 2,6,6-trimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]hept-2-ene

Alpha Pinene, also known by the names α-pinene, alpha pinene, 2-Pinene or 2,6,6-trimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]hept-2-ene, is an organic compound belonging to the terpene family. It belongs to the monoterpenes, or small water-soluble molecules, found in many plant species. Alpha Pinene is one of the two isomers of Pinene, the other being Beta Pinene. It is a transparent, slightly oily substance with a strong, woody to resinous odor. Alpha Pinene is the main constituent of turpentine and is also found in pine needles, laurel, thyme, sage, rosemary, eucalyptus and mint.

Alpha Pinene is widely used in perfumery, collector's essences and aromatherapy for its quivering, fresh scent. When heated, it produces a characteristic "resinous" smell that can be found in many cleaning products. In the food industry, alpha pinene is used as a natural flavouring. In industry, it is used as a biological solvent and as an additive in two-stroke engine oils, where it helps stabilize the fuel. Like other monoterpenes, it has properties that are useful to the pharmaceutical and medical industries. It can act as an anti-inflammatory, brochodilator and mucolytic agent. Last but not least, its use in biology as a pheromone for some insect species is equally important. Interestingly, alpha pinene can also be used in the production of synthetic marijuana.