Your Nose Knows: Limonene

Knowing your terpenes is just as important as knowing your favorite strain. In fact, you could say it’s even more important. Each month, I will introduce a new terpene, its benefits, and give you strain recommendations so you can see how that terpene works for you. Ready? Let’s dive right in!

When it comes to cannabis, limonene stands out for its uplifting effects.

This terpene is one of the most prevalent in nature, but tends to be found in smaller quantities in cannabis. It is associated with boosting mood and creating a sense of euphoria. It can be seen as complementing both the more sedating qualities of indica-dominant strains and the energizing features of sativa-dominant ones.

What smell should I look for?

Lemons, citrus, and a warm, sunny day. Well, maybe not that last part.

What can I expect?

Like all medical cannabis research, the results are based on the experiences of other patients. However, limonene is the terpene with the most research. Most users report having a sense of euphoria and a sense of elation. Medical research is being conducted to understand some of limonene’s therapeutic properties, including: 

• Anticancer
• Analgesic
• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
• Anti-anxiety

A note on limonene and anxiety

While limonene can be a great mood enhancer, this terpene could trigger anxiety. If this happens to you (like it does to me!) the best way to get the benefits from this terpene is to offset it with something like myrcene or linalool. It doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from limonene. It just means you need to find that right balance.

You can always count on there being limonene in strains with words like lemon or citrus. But what can you do if they don’t have it in the name?

Here are a few strains that you wouldn’t expect to have limonene:

• Durban Poison ~ this is my favorite strain for cleaning the house or working out in the gym. I have a clear head and a ton of energy. Perfect for getting things done.
• Jack Herer ~ this is my go-to day strain. The effect is a clear mind with a touch of mood elevation. It doesn’t give me energy like other limonene strains, so it’s perfect for a day at the office.
• Cinderella99 ~ this is a great daytime strain that produces similar results as Jack Herer. However, you’ll smell more limonene in this strain than in others, making it a delightful experience for running errands on a Saturday morning 
• Sour Diesel ~ this is an interesting strain containing limonene because its dominant terpene is caryophyllene, which has a spicy/peppery aroma. You’d think the combination would be awful, but it gives you just the right amount of zest to keep you smiling and energized. 
• Tangie ~ this strain is a beautiful blend of all things citrus, from lemons and oranges to tangerines. My breakfasts during my Cannapreneur Jamaica trip was not complete without a delicious tangie joint. When you’re picturing an island paradise, picture a little bit of tangie with you.

Curious about other terpenes? You don’t have to wait until next month. Download my FREE TERPENES GUIDE and give your cannabis knowledge a little boost.

Having trouble tracking your favorite terpenes?

Your body’s response can be as unique as you are and changes in harvest, cultivator techniques, or just plain product availability can have a big impact on your health journey. Having a journal like My Chronicles is the key to helping you quickly record and easily track the important stuff so you can get back to enjoying the moment.

My Chronicles Journal comes with a digital version to keep track of your progress when you’re on the go. ($19.95)

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