Relax, it's limonene!

If you’re a cannabis consumer, you’ve probably heard of limonene. But what exactly is limonene and why should you care about it? To find answers to these questions (and more!), keep on reading as we dive into this intriguing topic.
What is Limonene?
Limonene is one of many naturally occurring monoterpenes, which is a type of aromatic compound. Limonene occurs naturally in many plants and fruits, including the cannabis plant. It contributes to the unique flavor and aroma of different marijuana strains. The chemical structure of limonene, sometimes called d limonene consists of a hydrocarbon ring with two isoprene units attached to it, resulting in the molecule having two double bonds that react with other molecules. Limonene has been found to have numerous therapeutic benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and stress relief. Furthermore, its aroma has been used to potentiate the effects of cannabinoids like THC. In conclusion, limonene provides more than just pleasing citrus aromas to essential oil; it also has important medicinal benefits when consumed in combination with cannabis products.

Where Does Limonene Come From?

Limonene is a hydrocarbon molecule found in the essential oils of fruits such as lemons, limes, oranges, mandarins, and grapefruits and other citrus fruits. It can also be found in other plants such as mint, juniper berry, rosemary, and cardamom. It's an aromatic compound from citrus peels with a strong lemon-like smell that has been used in food flavoring for centuries.

What are the Benefits of Limonene?

When ingested or applied topically, limonene appears to have several medicinal properties. It's thought to help reduce inflammation and pain. In addition, some studies suggest that limonene may help reduce anxiety and stress levels by acting on the brain's serotonin receptors. Other research suggests that limonene may have anti-cancer benefits due to its ability to act on certain cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed.
  • Reduce inflammation and pain
    Limonene has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce inflammation and pain. Limonene inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals such as interleukins, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and prostaglandin E. It also modulates the activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NFKB), a transcription factor that is involved in inflammation.

    Studies have shown that limonene can increase cannabinoid receptors, thus potentiating their effects. This increased sensitivity contributes to its ability to reduce pain and alleviate inflammation. Additionally, the terpene has been observed to interact with vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1) in order to block pain signals from being sent out from peripheral nerves or central neurons, bringing about analgesic effects. All in all, when limonene is used it provides an effective way of treating pain and inflammation caused by various medical conditions through its wide range of biological activities.

    When you're smoking marijuana, the terpene limonene works hard to help reduce inflammation and pain. It inhibits pro-inflammatory chemicals, increases cannabinoid receptor sensitivity, and blocks pain signals from being sent out. All in all, limonene can help you stay relaxed and feeling good!

  • Reduce anxiety and stress levels
    Limonene, a terpene found in marijuana, has been studied for its calming and anti-anxiety effects. Research suggests that limonene helps reduce anxiety by acting on the neurotransmitter serotonin, increasing its levels to create an antidepressant and anti-anxiety effect. Limonene is also thought to lower cortisol production in the body, reducing overall stress and allowing us to stay calm and relaxed. Overall, limonene can play an important role in helping you achieve a calmer mental state.

    When you're enjoying your weed, the terpene limonene is hard at work helping to reduce inflammation and pain. Not only does it block out pain signals, but also increases your cannabinoid receptor sensitivity, leaving you feeling relaxed and comfortable. Studies show that limonene can even help reduce anxiety and stress levels, by working on serotonin levels to create an antidepressant effect and by lowering cortisol production in the body. Basically, it's just one more way that marijuana can help keep you feeling good!


  • Anti cancer benefits of limonene
    Limonene has been studied for its potential role in fighting cancer. Research suggests that limonene has proven to block cancer forming chemicals. This can be attributed to its direct and indirect antioxidant properties. Limonene exhibits antioxidant effects, and it also has been shown to kill cancer cells by helping to inhibit the progress of tumor growth and reduce the size of existing tumors. Additionally, limonene also shows promise as an anti-inflammatory, reducing inflammation in cells that may have been affected by carcinogens. Overall, limonene appears to have potential as a powerful agent in fighting cancer.

    Not only is marijuana great for relaxing and taking away stress, studies suggest that limonene can help you fight cancer by blocking tumor growth and reducing inflammation in affected cells. So while you're enjoying your medical marijuana, it's also hard at work protecting your body from the harmful effects of carcinogens. In short, marijuana can keep more than just your spirits high - it helps with cancer prevention too!

Is There Research to Support These Benefits?

Yes! A number of studies have demonstrated the potential health benefits of limonene. However, more research is needed before any definitive conclusions can be made about its therapeutic effects. Additionally, since limonene is an unregulated substance, it's important to purchase products containing limonene from reputable sources in order to ensure quality and safety standards are met.

Studies exploring the effects of limonene on inflammation, cancer, and mood have been conducted by researchers at universities such as Harvard Medical School, Dartmouth College, and The University of Tokyo. Additionally, peer-reviewed research regarding limonene has been published in publications such as Scientific Reports, PLoS One, Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, and PLoS Genetics.

What are the Side Effects of Limonene and How Do You Avoid Them?

Limonene is generally considered safe when used properly; however, some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions if they're sensitive to this compound. In addition, consuming too much limonene can lead to stomach upset or discomfort due to its high acidity content. To avoid these side effects make sure not to consume more than recommended dosages of products containing limonene or apply them directly on your skin without diluting them with carrier oils first. Additionally, if you have any preexisting medical conditions or allergies consult with your doctor before using any product containing limonene as a precautionary measure.

What Cannabis Strains Are High in Limonene?

Certain limonene rich cannabis strains contain higher levels of limonene than others so if you want to take advantage of its potential health benefits look for a cannabis strain such as Lemon Haze (Sativa), Cookies & Cream (Hybrid), Super Silver Haze (Sativa), Sour Diesel (Sativa), Skywalker OG (Indica) etcetera which are known for their high levels of this fragrant terpene!

TL;DR

When you light up some weed, limonene is hard at work to help soothe inflammation and pain. Aside from blocking out pain signals, it also increases your cannabinoid receptor sensitivity, making you feel better and more relaxed. Studies even suggest that limonene works to reduce anxiety and stress levels by having an antidepressant effect that decreases cortisol production in the body. In short, marijuana is a great way to keep yourself feeling good - including reducing the risk of cancer!

We hope this article has helped shed light on what exactly is limonene and how it might benefit your health! Just remember that although there's evidence suggesting potential health benefits associated with this terpene always remember to purchase products containing it from reputable sources only and never exceed recommended dosages in order to ensure safety! Have fun experimenting with different limonene rich strains but always remember - start low go slow! Happy smoking! :)

SOURCE
Vieira, A. J., Beserra, F. P., Souza, M. C., Totti, B. M., & Rozza, A. L. (2018). Limonene: Aroma of innovation in health and disease. Chemico-biological interactions, 283, 97–106.