Compound Monograph

Sabinene

Sabinene is a bicyclic monoterpene that contributes to the aroma of nutmeg, marjoram and many spices.

Work in progress

Classification

Sabinene is a monoterpene, part of the terpenoids class. The largest class of plant compounds, built from five-carbon isoprene units — the essential-oil aromatics, resins, bitter principles, saponins, and plant sterols.

Terpenoids Monoterpenes

Where Does It Come From? (12)

Sabinene is a naturally occurring monoterpene, found in Nutmeg, Marjoram, Black pepper and 9 other sources. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).

Angelica Angelica archangelica Black pepperCarrot seed Chaste Tree Vitex agnus-castus Feverfew Tanacetum parthenium Juniper Juniperus communis MarjoramNutmeg Peppermint Mentha piperita Turmeric Curcuma longa Wormwood Artemisia absinthium Yarrow Achillea millefolium

Research & Evidence

Sabinene is a bicyclic monoterpene found in the essential oils of many plants, including nutmeg, marjoram, black pepper and various conifers, where it contributes a warm, woody-spicy note. As a common aroma constituent it is studied for antioxidant and antimicrobial activity in laboratory settings, but its effects as an isolated compound in humans are not well established.

Toxicity & Safety

Sabinene occurs naturally in foods and spice essential oils and is regarded as low in toxicity at those levels. Concentrated essential oils containing it should be handled with the usual care given to volatile oils.