All About Limonene, An Essential Oil Found Commonly in Cannabis
The mood-boosting Limonene has demonstrated anti-anxiety, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anti-cancer effects
Limonene is the terpene, or essential oil, that’s most associated with those fruity, citrus-like smells and flavors often found in your cannabis. It’s bright and eye opening nature can be a welcome addition to a dark and cold winter day, and can play a role in elevating your mood, reducing stress and boosting your energy. It’s not present in every cannabis strain, but it’s among the most commonly found. Terpenes are produced by the plant and act as self-defense, or immune system, against would-be predators in nature. Environmental factors influence which terpenes are present.
With the advent of modern-day cannabis oil extraction, many producers have developed methods to capture and preserve the amount of cannabis-produced terpenes in a given product. Because of this, you’re more likely to find strain blends with high Limonene content in vape cartridges and other extracts that are formulated to elevate your mood. As our medical cannabis consultant Matt puts it succinctly, “Limonene makes things happy!” It’s important to note that Limonene doesn’t need to be the predominant terpene present in order to have possess these effects, even a small percentage can be influential.
Outside of cannabis, Limonene is most prominently found in the peel of citrus fruits and mint. The oils in the rind of an orange or grapefruit are 97% comprised of Limonene. It’s used in various applications, like cleaning supplies, food flavoring, and fragrance additives in cosmetics. Throughout your day, you may be interacting with Limonene several times and not even realize it!
Health Implications of Limonene
Isolated Limonene has antibacterial effects, and may be beneficial for fighting acne and other skin disorders. Internally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Limonene have been studied for the treatment of ulcerative colitis with promising results. There is also evidence pointing to its efficacy in reducing inflammation related to osteoarthritis.
A 2018 study by the National Institute of Health, Limonene showed an ability to inhibit lung cancer cell growth in mice. Numerous other studies have pointed to Limonene’s vast cancer-fighting potential.
What Cannabis Strains are high in limonene?
Dominion Skunk EVFO by Puffin Farm | 44% THC
Squirt Sativa Hybrid by Lazy Bee Gardens 17% THC
Guava Punch Hybrid by Eagle Trees | 22% THC
707 Truthband by Heylo | 59% THC, 3.6% CBG, 2.5% CBD, .6% CBC, .5% THCV
Wedding Cake Indica Hybrid by Lazy Bee Gardens
52% THC .15% CBD 1% CBG .46% CBC