When it comes to terpenes, the limonene terpene is, by far, one of the most noteworthy due to its zesty aroma and diverse range of natural properties. If you’re looking for a powerful way to enhance your entourage effect, limonene is exactly what you’re looking for. Learn all about limonene and more in our in-depth guide.
Catch some citrusy notes with your last hemp smoke? Maybe you felt a bit of zest that lingered on your tongue or thought you smelled a hint of lemon lingering in the air. You have likely just come in contact with one of the trademark terpenes in the cannabis family: limonene.
Limonene is widely recognized for its association with citrus fruits and aromatherapy value. But when you light up your favorite smokable hemp, especially certain strains, you get to enjoy the fragrance, flavors, and potential therapeutic properties of this exciting terpene. Ready for your formal intro to one of the more prominent members of the terpene family? Hey, you—meet limonene!
What Is Limonene?
Limonene (or d-limonene) is actually a monoterpene, which means it has smaller molecules and is rapidly absorbed and secreted by the body. In nature in general, limonene is thought to be one of the most prevalent and abundant. You can find the terpene in pretty much all citrus fruits, such as oranges, tangerines, and lemons. However, the terpene is also found in abundance in other plants like juniper, rosemary, and even celery.
The powerful citrusy aromatics of limonene make it a prime ingredient for many consumer products. You have likely used body care products, household cleaners, and even fragrances that contain limonene without knowing the terpene had such a part to play in the aromatic experience. But, you will also find limonene in a plethora of food products because of its telltale citrus flavor. While limonene has been deemed GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the FDA, synthesized versions are also highly relied upon as well.
Limonene and the Endocannabinoid System
Even though the limonene terpene is found in plants from the cannabis family, the terpene does not interact with either the CB1 or CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. The numerous favorable qualities of limonene seem to stem from interactions with the body in other ways. Nevertheless, limonene may act as a supportive or complementary agent when paired with certain cannabinoids. For example, smoking a high limonene CBD strain may mean the limonene’s anti-inflammatory actions support the anti-inflammatory actions of CBD.
The Potential Limonene Benefits
The limonene effects on the body and mind are both intriguing and beneficial. A wealth of research has been done on this specific terpene partially because it is so prevalent among other plants beyond those in the cannabis family.
Anxiety-Reducing Qualities
Citrus-fragranced oils, including those with high limonene terpene concentrations, have long been relied on in aromatherapy for their ability to relieve stress and anxiety. In an animal study done to establish the anxiolytic properties of limonene, researchers also concluded that the terpene seemed to also lower blood pressure in the tested animals.
Pain-Reducing Properties
Limonene is shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Therefore, several studies have examined how the terpene could potentially be used to treat or reduce pain. One of the most noteworthy studies found limonene, especially when combined with the medication cyclodextrin, to be effective for things like neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia, which are two hard-to-treat types of pain.
Weight-Loss Supporting Properties
In an interesting study on limonene, researchers determined that the terpene enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis and lipid metabolism. In laymen’s terms, this means that limonene seems to induce the formation of brown fat cells via mechanisms that metabolize unhealthy lipids (white fat cells). The conclusion in the particular study published in the journal of Life Sciences in 2016 was that limonene could potentially be effective to help treat obesity.
Potentially Deters Cancer Cell Growth
Trials looking into terpenoids and how they could benefit those with cancer are optimistic, but not yet firmly established. Nevertheless, limonene has shown promise as a potential anti-cancer agent in a few studies. In an animal study published in 2009, limonene showed some efficacy in deterring prostate cancer cells. In the Journal Life Sciences, a study pointed out that limonene showed cytotoxicity properties with colon cancer cells. More research obviously needs to be established, but the initial findings regarding the limonene terpene and cancer are promising.
High Limonene Hemp Strains
In traditional cannabis strains, limonene is pretty easy to find sprinkled in everything from Kush and OG strains to some of the sweeter varieties like Wedding Cake. Even though hemp may not have quite so many strains that have especially high levels of limonene, there are a few that stand out just the same. A few hemp strains to look for with substantial limonene content include:
High Limonene Hemp Products
If you’re looking for an effective and convenient way to enhance your lifestyle with limonene and other terpenes, check out these top-selling products:
- Jack Herer Hemp Disposable Vape Pen
- Fire OG Hemp Disposable Vape Pen
- Hawaiian Haze Hemp Flower
- Suver Haze Hemp Pre Rolls
Enjoy Limonene and Other Terpenes In Full-Spectrum, Smokable Hemp
The more you get to know the many terpenes found in hemp, the more you can appreciate just how truly beneficial this plant can be. Limonene stands as a shining example of why using full-spectrum hemp could be so valuable. If you’re ready to experience limonene and the full collection of other terpenes and cannabinoids, be sure to check out our top-shelf quality, smokable hemp products like hemp flower, hemp pre rolls, hemp vape pens, and more.
This article is not intended to serve as a substitute for advice or consultation from a certified doctor or health professional. Before trying CBD or hemp flower products, it is strongly advised to conduct your own research and consult with a licensed doctor. While the World Health Organization considers cannabidiol to be “generally well tolerated with a good safely profile,” more research is needed to properly evaluate the safety and efficacy of CBD for general use.
TIMBR Organics products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Thanks for reading our latest guide. If you have any questions or comments, be sure to drop us a message in the comments!
Want to get a closer look at terpenes? Take a look at the TIMBR Organics blog to learn more about pinene, bisabolol, beta-caryophyllene, and more.
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