Terpene Profile: Limonene

Limonene is the citrus terpene. It shows up in substantial concentrations in cannabis varieties that smell of citrus. It also occurs widely in nature as well as in almost all household products. Fun fact – almost no one is allergic to limonene, therefore it is a primary ingredient in most cleaning products. Limonene can be found most abundantly in the rinds of citrus fruits. Think about busting open a citrus fruit open or going on a cleaning spree – there is a slight euphoric lift that may occur. This is limonene doing its job! Limonene interacts with our serotonin and dopamine receptors to help stabilize mood, decrease anxiety and facilitate euphoria. Here is a snapshot of how limonene may influence a cannabis experience:

Aroma. Aroma helps us to identify terpenes when we don’t have lab results. Terpenes are consumed through our olfactory glands before we even inhale or ingest. Therefore, the smell of a variety can affect the experience. It also may contribute to taste. 

Limonene’s Aroma: citrus, sweet, tangy

Effects on mood: In cannabis, limonene most likely contributes to an uplifting experience and creates the happy, silly, giggles often associated with some cannabis varieties. Research suggests that limonene helps to decrease anxiety and elevate mood because of its ability to interact with the dopamine and serotonin receptor families.

Medicinal Properties: Anxiolytic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune modulator. May help acid reflux.

Synergistic Properties: When combined with THCV and CBD, limonene may help to decrease appetite and regulate weight loss. When combined with cannabinoids in general, limonene may increase the anti-inflammatory and immune regulatory potential. Limonene also may help other cannabis compounds diffuse across the skin and mucous membranes more effectively, making it a smart addition to topicals and tinctures. 

This article was written by Emma Chasen of Eminent Consulting  on behalf of Feel State

Emma Chasen has a mission to educate people on the science behind cannabis so that they may take charge of their own healing.  A graduate of Brown University in 2014 with a degree in Medicinal Plant Research, Emma has made a huge impact in the cannabis community and has quickly become a recognized expert in the field. Chasen now co-owns and operates Eminent Consulting.

Feel State is a Missouri based dispensary brand focused on helping better connect individuals to themselves, each other, and their communities through the use of cannabis.