Alpha-Humulene

PhytochemicalSesquiterpene

What is it

Alpha-humulene is a sesquiterpene found in hops (Humulus lupulus), basil, sage, ginseng, and several other plants. It contributes to the aroma of hops and is being studied for anti-inflammatory and potential anti-cancer activity in preclinical models.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Anti-inflammatory effects (preclinical)

Mixed Evidence

Preclinical (cell and animal) evidence only. No published controlled human trials.

How it works

Alpha-humulene is a structural isomer of beta-caryophyllene and is often found together with it. In laboratory studies, alpha-humulene has shown anti-inflammatory activity (partly through inhibition of leukotriene production) and pro-apoptotic effects in some cancer cell lines. Clinical human evidence is limited. Most of the interest in alpha-humulene comes from its role in hops and cannabis essential-oil chemotypes, where it is one of several terpenes proposed to contribute to overall biological activity.

Dosage

No standardized human dose. Concentrations in hops and cannabis essential oils vary widely. There are no validated supplement doses.

When and how to take it

Most exposure occurs through food (basil, sage) or beverages (hops in beer). Concentrated supplements are uncommon; follow product labeling if used.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Within hops or essential oils

Most exposure is through hops in beer or culinary herbs.

Lipophilic; absorbed with dietary fat.

Safety

Generally considered safe in food and aromatherapy amounts. High-concentration essential oils can cause skin irritation. Specific safety data for isolated alpha-humulene supplements are limited.

Who should be cautious

Avoid concentrated supplements in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited safety data. Avoid ingesting concentrated essential oils. People sensitive to hops or other Cannabaceae plants should be cautious.

Interactions

Insufficient data to characterize. Theoretical interactions with anti-inflammatory medications and CYP-metabolized drugs.

Food sources

Hops (in beer)

Amount
Variable
%DV
—

Basil, fresh

Amount
1 tbsp chopped
%DV
—

Sage

Amount
1 tsp dried
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is alpha-humulene psychoactive?⌄

No. Like other terpenes, alpha-humulene is not psychoactive on its own. It contributes to flavor and aroma in hops, cannabis, and certain herbs.

Should I take an alpha-humulene supplement?⌄

Evidence is currently limited to preclinical studies. There is no established human dose or proven clinical use. Getting it from food sources is the safest approach.

References

Alpha-Humulene on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Alpha-Humulene (ChEBI:49311) — ChEBI link

Alpha-Humulene (PubChem CID 21712) — PubChem link

Alpha-Humulene on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Alpha-Humulene (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.