Humulene

Humulene, also known as α-humulene or α-caryophyllene, is a natural sesquiterpene found in various plants, including Humulus lupulus (hops) from which it gets its name. It is one of the key compounds contributing to the “hoppy” aroma of beer. Humulene is also present in cannabis, adding to its complex scent profile and potentially playing a role in its effects. This compound is being researched for its potential anti-inflammatory properties.

Occurrence and Properties of Humulene:

• Humulene is a component of the essential oil from hops plants.
• Levels of humulene vary among different hop plant varieties.
• Noble hop varieties contain higher levels of humulene, contributing to their hoppy aroma.
• α-Humulene is found in various aromatic plants globally.
• Multiple epoxides of humulene are produced during the brewing process.
• Research is ongoing on the potential anti-inflammatory effects and insect repellent properties of humulene.
• Brazil researchers have identified specific properties of α-Humulene in leaf oil.

Atmospheric Chemistry of α-Humulene:

• α-Humulene is a biogenic volatile organic compound emitted by plants.
• It reacts with ozone in sunlight to form oxygenated products.
• α-Humulene has a high reaction rate coefficient compared to other compounds.
• Contributes to the formation of secondary organic aerosols.
• Lifetime of α-Humulene and its products in the atmosphere varies.

Synthesis and Chemical Properties of Humulene:

• Humulene can be synthesized in the laboratory using various methods.
• Diverse ways exist to synthesize humulene involving C-C bond closures.
• Enzyme nomenclature resources help in understanding enzyme reactions.
• Humulene has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
• Cordia verbenacea is known for its medicinal properties.
• Research highlights the therapeutic potential of humulene.

Biological Activities and Effects of Humulene:

• Humulene acts as an oviposition deterrent for Aedes aegypti.
• Gas chromatography-electrophysiological assays are used for analysis.
• Study published in PLOS ONE in 2015.
• (E)-Caryophyllene and alpha-humulene identified as deterrents.
• Offers insights into natural insect repellents.

Chemical Reactions and Studies on Humulene:

• Gas-phase ozonolysis of alpha-humulene studied.
• Published in Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys journal in 2011.
• Provides information on the chemical behavior of humulene.
• Contributes to the understanding of atmospheric chemistry.

Humulene Data Sources