Hi can someone explain whats the difference between the Alpha and Beta terpines here on ilgm?
Because two of them are the same
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The alpha and beta versions have the same chemical formula, but they have differing chemical structures. The reference to alpha or beta is simply a reference to differing isomers of the same compound, just as delta-8 THC and delta-9 THC are differing isomers of THC.
Both are known for anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as well as cardioprotective and neuroprotective properties. The beta version is also known for antioxidant properties.
Alpha-pinene is on the left and beta-pinene is on the right.
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Think of it if I had a pile of legos. How many shapes could I make using all the pieces to make a cyclohexane ring with none left over. You often have several options. Hence alpha, beta, etc versions of the same molecule. They often have very different traits like smell strength or boiling point.
There are also right and left handed versions too. Like gloves, these are referred to as chiral isomers. Instead of the alpha and beta variants. These can also have very different properties. My favorite is sugar and cellulose. One is energy and dissolves easily in water. One builds structure and doesn’t dissolve easily. Same molecule, one is right handed and one is left handed. Crazy to think about.
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