Limonene Terpene: Effects and Benefits
Whether you’re new to the cannabis world or an old advocate, you’ve probably heard about terpenes. These aromatic compounds lend different marijuana strains their characteristic aroma and flavor. Today, we are taking a closer look at limonene terpene and its benefits.
Limonene is one of the most common types of terpenes within cannabis that contributes to a better experience with the plant. It’s best to familiarize yourself with this compound to get the most out of terpenes and cannabis. So keep reading to learn more about the uses and effects of limonene terpene.
What is Limonene?
Limonene, or d-limonene, is one of the most abundant terpenes in nature. It is commonly found in the peels of citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges, making up 97% of their rind’s essential oils. It’s also present in other herbs and plants like cannabis.
Limonene terpene has many benefits, but its primary role is to create the characteristic aroma of plants. The zingy, lemon-flavor of limonene is why many food manufacturers add it to their drinks and desserts.
While scientists have identified over 100 terpenes in marijuana, limonene remains one of the most studied and sought-after ones. Its popularity is mainly due to its effects, which we will get to next.
Limonene Terpene’s Effects
The limonene terpene gives cannabis a lemon scent, but its contribution goes beyond that. This terpene works alongside other terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids to give users a heightened experience in the form of the entourage effect.
Limonene terpene’s benefits result from this synergy between different compounds that create a full-body experience. The presence of limonene and other terpenes also helps the bloodstream absorb marijuana’s beneficial substances quicker, leading to a more potent journey.
Limonene Terpene’s Medicinal Potential
Studies link numerous medicinal benefits to limonene, which can help patients with various diseases. Let’s look at some of these benefits.
Anti-Inflammatory
Limonene has significant anti-inflammatory potential. Chronic inflammation in the body can cause major illnesses, so preventing it is crucial for better health. Many who use medical marijuana for inflammation are unaware of limonene terpene’s benefits for their condition.
Research shows that limonene is a potent anti-inflammatory agent that can reduce markers related to osteoarthritis. Further studies of the effects of limonene terpene in human cartilage cells found a reduction in nitric oxide production. This compound is a signaling molecule for inflammatory pathways. Studies of rodents with ulcerative colitis also showed lower inflammatory markers after limonene treatment.
Antioxidant
Limonene also shows potent antioxidant properties. Antioxidants protect cells against damaging free radicals that can cause inflammation and illness. Limonene is proving to be an effective ally in this fight.
Studies on limonene terpene’s antioxidant benefits reveal its role in inhibiting free radicals in leukemia cells. These results suggest limonene’s efficacy in reducing cellular damage and preventing disease.
Anticancer
One of the ways medical marijuana can help cancer patients is through limonene. This terpene has potent anticancer abilities that have been proven by various studies.
One study found that limonene from citrus peel can reduce the risk of skin cancer. Another study involving women with breast cancer showed limonene’s ability to reduce tumor cell expression by 22%. Limonene terpene also provides benefits when given with other anticancer medications.
Anti-Anxiety
Limonene is one of the best terpenes for relieving stress and anxiety. Many marijuana doctors and dispensaries recommend strains high in limonene for battling anxiety and depression.
Studies also support this effect of limonene terpene. Scientists have seen the positive results of limonene aromatherapy on rodents. Other studies showed limonene’s ability to improve mood by regulating neuronal activity.
Heart Disease Prevention
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the world. Numerous treatments are available to battle cardiac disorders, and limonene is the latest addition.
Various studies point to limonene terpene’s benefits for heart disease. One of these studies suggests that limonene lowers risk factors like cholesterol levels and blood sugar. Another study evaluated the effects of limonene on stroke-prone rats and found a drop in blood pressure.
Healthy Appetite and Digestion
Limonene may also reduce appetite and support healthy digestion by preventing stomach ulcers.
Studies show limonene’s aroma can significantly decrease appetite in blowflies. Another study tested the effects of limonene on rats and found that it prevented stomach ulcers caused by other medications.
Limonene Uses
Considering limonene terpene’s benefits, it’s no surprise that it has several uses. Many use it to elevate their mood, relieve stress, and ease discomfort. Some drug companies even add limonene to their cancer medications to protect patients against different types of cancer.
Limonene is also a favorite scent for aromatherapy oils. Food and cosmetics industries also use this terpene to give their products a better taste and aroma. Limonene terpene’s effects also work as a natural insect repellent. You may even notice the scent of limonene in your household cleaning products, soaps, and shampoos.
Cannabis Strains High in Limonene
Due to limonene terpene’s benefits, many growers include it in their marijuana’s genetic makeup. Its concentration varies in different marijuana strains. For instance, sativas have higher amounts of limonene than hybrids and indicas.
Here are some limonene-dominant strains you can try:
- Cinex
- Tahoe OG
- Do-Si-Dos
- Cherry OG
- Lemon OG
- Banana OG
- Berry White
- Wedding Cake
- Quantum Kush
- Super Sour Diesel
- Purple Hindu Kush
- Black Cherry Soda
- Strawberry Banana
- Super Lemon Haze
Enjoy Limonene With Ozark MMJ Cards
Limonene is just one of the beneficial compounds of cannabis. This plant has so much more to offer. You can enjoy limonene terpene’s benefits and more with the help of Ozark MMJ Cards. We provide fast and affordable medical marijuana certifications and renewals with virtual visits in Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.
We can help you get your MMJ card in no time so you can take advantage of marijuana’s natural health benefits. Contact us now to talk to an expert and begin your certification. If you liked this article, visit our cannabis blog for more educational reads.