TERPENE TALK – Limonene

TERPENES ARE THE MOLECULES IN CANNABIS DIRECTLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DISTINCT SMELL AND TASTE of the many varieties available and, they have an important role to play in the plant’s effects. Research has found that the cannabinoid and terpene profile of a particular cannabis strain determines the high or euphoria that it produces — either uplifting or sedating — along with its therapeutic properties. Terpenes also seem to operate synergistically with cannabinoids and influence their individual effects. 

IT HAS BEEN SUGGESTED THAT LIMONENE AIDS IN THE THERAPEUTIC TREATMENT FOR a myriad of conditions and symptoms, such as multiple sclerosis, IBD (crohn’s/ulcerative colitis), anxiety, depression, inflammation, pain, asthma, obesity, arthritis, and cancer (particularly skin, breast, prostate, and glioblastoma). It may also be helpful for Parkinson’s disease due to its antioxidant and neuroprotective properties, but this is yet to be conclusively researched. 

PATIENTS & RECREATIONAL CONSUMERS ALIKE who tend to favor or enjoy the uplifting and energizing effects of Sativa strains – have limonene to thank for the pleasant cerebral buzz that ushers in a carefreeness, the euphoria that helps to shoo away gnawing fatigue, reverse a bad mood and increase focus, productivity, and creativity. Though THC plays a major role in the effects of consuming cannabis, terpenes also play an important role in how you will feel. Limonene is one of the most common and popular terpenes along with Pinene and Myrcene.

Several studies have also shown limonene has a lot of promise in treating different types of cancer. It has anti-proliferative properties that can aid in inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells, as well as carcinogenic tumors. One study published in a medical journal called Anti-inflammatory and Anti-allergy Agents in Medicinal Chemistry demonstrated that limonene possesses the ability to prevent tumors from creating new blood vessels and prevent them from infecting surrounding skin tissue. Another study that was published in the Cancer Prevention Research journal showed limonene had a positive effect on breast cancer patients who saw significant improvements in their metabolic pathways.

STRAINS CONTAINING LIMONENE

Though all strains have various terpenes, the amount of terpenes in a strain can vary depending on how and by whom it’s cultivated. Limonene is mostly present in sativa or sativa-dominant hybrid strains, although there are some indica strains with a small limonene content.

• SUPER LEMON HAZE  (an upbeat Sativa that is great for relieving stress and helping you to feel happy, euphoric, and carefree),
• OG KUSH (a mellow hybrid strain that offers relaxation and pain relief),
• DURBAN POISON (a potent Sativa strain that will increase focus and productivity)
• JACK HERER (a classic Sativa strain that will boost your energy and creativity).