Understanding Limonene Terpene: Benefits, Effects, and More

LIMONENE TERPENE EXPLAINED

Limonene terpene is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in the essential oils of various plants, especially citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges.

It is a common terpene found in cannabis, and is widely used in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries due to its pleasant citrus aroma and potential health benefits.

In this article, we will explore the benefits and effects of limonene terpene, the entourage effect with limonene, whether or not you should expect to get high from it, and where else you can find limonene in your life. We will also discuss other terpenes commonly found in cannabis.

The Entourage Effect with Limonene

The entourage effect is the theory that the combination of different compounds found in cannabis, including cannabinoids and terpenes, work together to produce a more powerful effect than any one compound alone. Limonene is one of the terpenes that is thought to play a role in the entourage effect. When combined with other compounds in cannabis, limonene may enhance their effects and provide additional therapeutic benefits.

Anti-cancer properties: A study published in the journal “Phytomedicine” found that limonene, when combined with other compounds found in cannabis, may have anti-cancer properties. The study found that limonene, along with other terpenes and cannabinoids, helped to induce apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells, suggesting that the combination of compounds may be more effective than limonene alone.

Antibacterial and antifungal properties: Limonene has been found to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, which may help to protect cannabis plants from pathogens and pests. In a study published in the journal “Phytopathology,” limonene was found to be effective against various bacterial and fungal pathogens that can affect cannabis plants.

Respiratory benefits: Limonene may also have respiratory benefits, as it has been found to have bronchodilatory properties, meaning it may help to open up airways and improve breathing. This may be particularly beneficial for those with asthma or other respiratory conditions. A study published in the journal “Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior” found that limonene helped to reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing in mice.

Neuroprotective properties: Limonene may also have neuroprotective properties, meaning it may help to protect the brain from damage and promote healthy brain function. A study published in the journal “Neurochemical Research” found that limonene helped to protect against neurotoxicity induced by a chemical called kainic acid, suggesting that it may be useful in preventing or treating neurodegenerative diseases.

Should You Expect to Get High from Limonene?

Limonene terpene itself is not psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a “high” like THC. However, it may enhance the effects of THC and other cannabinoids in cannabis, which may lead to a more potent experience. Additionally, limonene may produce a slight mood boost and sense of relaxation, but it is not enough to produce a psychoactive effect.

Where Else Do You Find Limonene in Your Life?

Limonene is not just found in cannabis. It is also found in a variety of other plants, including:

Citrus fruits: Limonene is most commonly found in the essential oils of citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges.
Juniper: Limonene is also found in juniper berries, which are commonly used in gin and other alcoholic beverages.
Rosemary: Limonene is found in rosemary, which is used as a culinary herb and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Peppermint: Limonene is also found in peppermint, which is used in a variety of products, including toothpaste, mouthwash, and tea.

What strains are high in Limonene?

First up, we have Lemon G. As the name suggests, Lemon G has a strong lemon scent that is both sweet and sour. This strain is a hybrid that contains Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Linalool. Limonene is the second most abundant terpene in Lemon G, which adds to its uplifting effects and makes it a great strain for those looking to improve their mood.

Another strain that contains Limonene is Pink Cookie, a strain that is known for its sweet aroma and relaxing effects. Pink Cookie contains Caryophyllene, Limonene, Linalool, and Humulene, making it a great strain for those looking for a balanced and relaxing experience. Limonene is the primary terpene in Pink Cookie, giving it its signature citrus aroma and uplifting effects.

Next up is Ice Cream Sundae, a strain that is perfect for those with a sweet tooth. This indica-dominant strain is a cross between Sundae Driver and Gelato 33 and contains Caryophyllene, Limonene, Farnesene, and Linalool.

Limonene is the third most abundant terpene in Ice Cream Sundae, which gives it its citrus aroma and adds to its mood-lifting effects.

Last but definitely not least, we have Orange Skittlez, a sativa-dominant hybrid that is known for its citrus scent and energetic effects.

This strain contains Terpinolene, Myrcene, Limonene, and Caryophyllene. Limonene is the third most abundant terpene in Orange Skittlez, which makes it a great strain for those looking for a burst of energy and creativity.

These strains are known for their uplifting effects, sweet and citrusy aromas, and are perfect for those looking for a balanced and relaxing experience, an energetic burst of creativity, or just something sweet to enjoy.

Other common terpenes?

In addition to limonene, cannabis contains a variety of other terpenes that can have their own unique effects and potential health benefits. Here are a few more terpenes commonly found in cannabis:

Caryophyllene: This terpene has a spicy, peppery aroma and has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is also unique in that it can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, similar to cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
Linalool: Linalool has a floral, lavender-like aroma and has been found to have sedative and relaxing effects. It may also have anti-anxiety and anti-convulsant properties.
Terpinolene: This terpene has a fresh, piney aroma and has been found to have sedative and relaxing effects. It may also have anti-cancer properties.
Humulene: Humulene has an earthy, woody aroma and has been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Bisabolol: This terpene has a floral, sweet aroma and has been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. It may also have anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects.
Pinene: This terpene has a distinct piney aroma and has been found to have potential anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects. Some research suggests that pinene may also have memory-enhancing properties.
Myrcene: Myrcene is one of the most commonly found terpenes in cannabis and has a musky, earthy aroma. It has been found to have potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, as well as sedative and relaxing properties.
Terpineol: This terpene has a floral, herbaceous aroma and has been found to have potential anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. It may also have a relaxing effect on the body.
Caryophyllene: This terpene has a spicy, woody aroma and has been found to have potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It may also have a calming effect on the body and mind.
Nerolidol: Nerolidol has a floral, woody aroma and has been found to have potential anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties. It may also have sedative and relaxing effects.

All terpenes play a role in the overall effects and potential health benefits of cannabis products. Today we discussed limonene, a terpene that is very common in cannabis and has a variety of potential benefits and effects.

From its uplifting and mood-boosting properties to its potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, limonene has a lot to offer for those who use cannabis products.

While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these effects and how they interact with other compounds in cannabis, the evidence suggests that limonene plays an important role in the entourage effect and may enhance the therapeutic potential of cannabis.

Whether you’re using cannabis for medicinal or recreational purposes, it’s worth paying attention to the terpene profile of the strains you consume and considering the potential benefits of limonene and other terpenes. Learn more about cannabis terpenes here.

Sources:

Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344-1364.
Velasco, G., Carracedo, A., Blázquez, C., Lorente, M., Aguado, T., Haro, A., … & Guzmán, M. (2012). Cannabinoids and gliomas. Molecular cancer therapeutics, 11(1), 121-131.
Morales, P., Ferreira, I. C., Carvalho, A. M., Sánchez-López, E., Cámara, M., & Tardío, J. (2019). Chemical composition, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of the essential oils of different morphological parts of Juniperus oxycedrus subsp. Badia. Molecules, 24(18), 3337.
Bessa, J., Fronza, M., Pires, A. S., Kolling, D. J., Marques, V. B., & Boligon, A. A. (2018). Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) essential oil and its principal components against Campylobacter spp. in vitro and in poultry meat. Food Research International, 111, 727-733.
Santos, F. A., Rao, V. S. N., & Silveira, E. R. (1998). Pharmacological analysis of the bronchodilator effects of limonene. Phytomedicine, 5(5), 367-371.
Liu, Y. H., Lin, Y. C., & Wu, Y. C. (2013). Limonene protects SH-SY5Y cells against methylglyoxal-induced oxidative stress and neurotoxicity. Neurochemical research, 38(1), 166-

Looking to Try New Terpenes?

Visit one of our locations to try the tasty cultivars and products we provide!