Bisabolol

Definition: Bisabolol (alpha-bisabolol) is a terpene with a light, sweet, floral aroma, best known as a major component of German chamomile. It’s widely used in skincare for its soothing, anti-irritant properties. Some cannabis strains contain bisabolol in small amounts, where it adds a gentle floral, honey-like note.

What Is Bisabolol?

Bisabolol is a sesquiterpene alcohol, a colorless, slightly oily liquid. Commercially, most bisabolol comes from German chamomile and from the oil of the Brazilian candeia tree. Cosmetic makers add it to lotions, sunscreens, baby products, and after-shave balms to calm irritated skin.

What Does Bisabolol Smell Like?

It has a faint, sweet, floral scent with hints of honey and chamomile tea. Because it’s subtle, it rarely dominates a cannabis strain’s aroma.

What Are the Effects of Bisabolol?

Lab and animal studies suggest anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, and antimicrobial activity, which is why it’s popular in skincare. Researchers have also studied it as a penetration enhancer that helps other ingredients absorb into the skin. That makes it an ingredient worth watching in cannabis topicals. There’s no good human evidence yet that the small amounts in cannabis flower change how a strain feels.

Where Is Bisabolol Found?

German chamomile, the candeia tree, and some cannabis strains are the main natural sources.

Related terms: Terpenes, Nerolidol, THC Topicals, Entourage Effect

Sources: PubChem: alpha-Bisabolol; Russo EB, British Journal of Pharmacology, 2011.