In this post, we will be discussing the medicinal effects of alpha pinene and its possible uses. Alpha pinene is an organic compound that is found in many plants such as rosemary, cannabis, and pine trees. This compound has been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits. Some of these benefits include anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator, and anticonvulsant properties.

Anti-inflammatory activity: One study showed that alpha pinene was able to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in human monocytes. Cytokines are a type of protein that is involved in the Inflammatory response. By inhibiting their production, alpha pinene was able to reduce inflammation in the cells.

Bronchodilator activity: Another study showed that alpha pinene was able to dilate the airways in rats. This effect was thought to be mediated by the release of nitric oxide from airway smooth muscle cells. Nitric oxide is a gas that is produced by our cells and has many roles in the body including vasodilation ( widening of blood vessels).

Anticonvulsant activity: One study showed that alpha pinene was able to decrease seizure activity in mice. The mechanism by which it does this is not completely understood but it is thought to be due to its ability to modulate neurotransmitters in the brain.

Conclusion:

Overall, alpha pinene seems to have many potential therapeutic benefits. However, most of these studies have been done in animal models so further research is needed to see if these effects are replicated in humans. Nevertheless, alpha pinene is a promising compound with many possible medicinal uses.

Resources:

study 1: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12164264

study 2 : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19194371

study 3: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16693163