Alpha-Thujene in Frankincense: an Overview

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Alpha-thujene (or α-thujene)¹, a naturally occurring organic compound found in various plants can be said to be the “smelly part” (the compound that produces the scent). Frankincense, derived from the resin of the Boswellia species of trees, has been used for thousands of years for its aromatic and therapeutic properties. Check also frankincense benefits.

Alpha-thujene is a monoterpene, which is a class of organic compounds often found in essential oils. Monoterpenes are characterized by their strong aromatic properties and their ability to quickly evaporate and there are studies around these compounds². In frankincense, alpha-thujene is one of several monoterpenes present, including limonene, myrcene, and pinene, among others.²

A monoterpene is a type of organic compound found in plants that has a strong smell. These compounds are part of the essential oils that give plants their unique scents and flavours. Monoterpenes are made up of two building blocks called isoprene units, and they can be found in various plants like flowers, fruits, and trees. They are often used in perfumes, flavourings, and even some medicines. Research shows they have anti-inflammatory effects.³

While alpha-thujene itself has not been extensively studied, it has been shown to have certain biological activities. Some research suggests that it may have potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects⁴. However, more in-depth studies are required to fully understand its potential therapeutic benefits.

It is important to note that the chemical composition of frankincense can vary depending on factors such as the specific Boswellia species, the region where the tree grows, and the harvesting and extraction processes. Therefore, the concentration of alpha-thujene and other compounds in frankincense oil can vary.

Is Alpha-thujene beneficial? Looking at the Properties and Benefits

Scientists think it might be helpful for our bodies in some ways, like fighting germs or making swelling go down. But they’re still studying it to understand exactly how it can help us. So, while it might be helpful, we don’t know all the details yet.

Properties

Here are some of the key properties of alpha-thujene:

1. Physical properties:
   • It is a colorless liquid at room temperature with a strong, fresh, and somewhat woody aroma.
   • It is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as alcohol and ether.
2. Chemical properties:
   • Alpha-thujene has a molecular formula of C10H16, and its structure consists of two linked isoprene units, forming a bicyclic framework.
   • It can be found in various essential oils, including those derived from plants like frankincense, pine, and certain citrus fruits.
   • It is sensitive to heat, light, and oxygen, which can cause it to degrade or oxidize over time, affecting its properties.
3. Biological properties⁴:
   • Although the research on alpha-thujene is limited, some studies suggest it may have potential therapeutic benefits:
     • Anti-inflammatory: It may help reduce inflammation by inhibiting certain enzymes and pathways responsible for the inflammatory process.
     • Antioxidant: It could potentially neutralize harmful molecules called free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to aging and disease.
     • Antimicrobial: Some research indicates that alpha-thujene may be effective against certain bacteria and fungi, making it potentially useful as a natural antimicrobial agent.

What is the Concentration of Alpha-Thujene in Frankincense?

The amount of alpha-thujene in frankincense can easily change depending on some things like the type of tree, where the tree grows (country, area, etc) and how the frankincense is collected and then turned into oil. Because of this, it is a bit hard to say exactly how much alpha-thujene is in frankincense.

To find out the exact amount of alpha-thujene in a specific frankincense oil, you would need to look at a document called a certificate of analysis (COA) or ask the company that made or sells the oil.

How to use Alpha-Thujene in Frankincense

Add a few drops of frankincense essential oil to your diffuser, and let the calming properties of Alpha-Thujene fill the air.

You can also add a few drops to a hot bath to relax and unwind after a long day, but make sure to dilute the frankincense essential oil with a carrier oil, at 1% of the essential oil to the carrier oil.

For topical application, mix a few drops of frankincense oil with a carrier oil like coconut, almond or jojoba oil, and apply it to your skin (again, at 1% of essential oil to carrier oil). You can use it to reduce fine lines, soothe dry skin, and even fade scars and acne marks. Find out here if you could be allergic to frankincense oil.

A Look at the Other Monoterpenes in Frankincense⁵

1. Alpha-thujene: A bicyclic monoterpene with a fresh, somewhat woody aroma. It is found in plants like frankincense, pine, and some citrus fruits. Some studies suggest it may have potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
2. Limonene: A common monoterpene with a strong citrus scent, as its name suggests. It’s found in the peels of citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes. Limonene has been studied for its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties.
3. Myrcene: A monoterpene with an earthy, musky aroma, commonly found in plants like hops, mangoes, and lemongrass. It’s been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and sedative effects.
4. Pinene: This monoterpene exists in two forms, alpha-pinene and beta-pinene, both of which have a pine-like scent. They are found in plants like pine trees, rosemary, and eucalyptus. Pinene has been researched for its potential anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator (helping to improve airflow), and antimicrobial properties.

While these monoterpenes have shown promising properties in some studies, more research is needed to fully understand their potential benefits and applications.

Discover Alpha-Thujene in Other Essential Oils

Here is a list of some essential oils that contain alpha-thujene:

1. Pine essential oil
2. Eucalyptus essential oil
3. Sage essential oil
4. Cumin essential oil
5. Juniper berry essential oil
6. Frankincense essential oil
7. Citrus essential oils (such as grapefruit, orange, and lemon)

It’s important to note that the list above is not exhaustive, and alpha-thujene can be found in other essential oils as well. The ranking of frankincense on this list in terms of alpha-thujene concentration is not fixed because the amount of alpha-thujene in each essential oil can vary. In some cases, frankincense might have a higher concentration of alpha-thujene than other oils, while in other cases, it might have a lower concentration.

To determine the exact concentration of alpha-thujene in a specific essential oil, you would need to refer to the product’s certificate of analysis (COA) or consult with the manufacturer or supplier.

Summary

In conclusion, alpha-thujene is a fascinating monoterpene that contributes to the distinctive aroma of various essential oils, including frankincense, pine, and citrus fruits.

Preliminary research highlights its potential therapeutic benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. However, more studies are needed to fully understand its potential applications in medicine and other industries.

The concentration of alpha-thujene in essential oils can vary, so it’s essential to refer to the product’s COA or consult with the manufacturer for accurate information.

As our understanding of alpha-thujene deepens, we may uncover new and exciting ways to utilize this aromatic compound for the benefit of our health and well-being.

Learn here how to apply frankincense topically.

References

1. Alpha Thujene – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics [Internet]. [cited 2023 Apr 28]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/alpha-thujene.
2. Hussain H, Al-Harrasi A, Al-Rawahi A, Hussain J. Chemistry and Biology of Essential Oils of Genus Boswellia. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med [Internet]. 2013 [cited 2023 Apr 28]; 2013:140509. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3606720/.
3. De Cássia da Silveira e Sá R, Andrade LN, De Sousa DP. A Review on Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Monoterpenes. Molecules [Internet]. 2013 [cited 2023 Apr 28]; 18(1):1227–54. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/18/1/1227.
4. Kazemi M. Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial Activity of Nigella sativa L. Essential Oil. Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants [Internet]. 2014 [cited 2023 Apr 28]; 17(5):1002–11. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1080/0972060X.2014.914857.
5. Mikhaeil BR, Maatooq GT, Badria FA, Amer MMA. Chemistry and immunomodulatory activity of frankincense oil. Z Naturforsch C J Biosci. 2003; 58(3–4):230–8.