Limonene is the third most abundant terpene in Cannabis and the second most prevalent terpene on Earth (Hartsel, Eades, Hickory, & Makriyannis, 2016).
As we learn more about Cannabis, we realize that this ancestral plant's therapeutic effects do not come only from cannabinoids like THC or CBD. Terpenes and flavonoids also have a crucial role in determining the outcomes and benefits of a patient's treatment.
Terpenes are essential oils found on the flower’s trichomes and define several factors such as flavor, smell, and euphoric effects. When combined with other chemical compounds such as cannabinoids, they can enhance medicinal benefits, known as the entourage effect.
Currently, there are more than a hundred and fifty terpenes identified in cannabis plants; their potential is being sought after by many and can ultimately define the effects produced and desired.
Terpenes exist in many plants to defend the plants from harmful environmental factors, such as predators.
Aside from its characteristic aroma, Limonene can absorb quickly into the bloodstream and can improve other terpenes’ absorption.
What is Limonene?
Limonene, commonly known as d-limonene for its chemical structure, is a terpene present in lemons and citrus apart from Cannabis.
It is present as a monoterpene in resin glands, used for centuries as a natural treatment for multiple health issues and an ingredient in household items. It can be found concentrated in orange peels, other fruit rinds, cosmetics, and cleaning products.
Like other terpenes, Limonene is produced by a wide range of plants other than Cannabis, including juniper, citrus fruits, lemons, rosemary, and peppermint.
Its aroma can be identified as zesty citrus and can reduce allergic lung inflammation apart from its antioxidant properties (Hansen, Wolkoff & Larsen 2016). It is also known for its anti-anxiety attributes, potent antifungal and antibacterial qualities, and stimulating the immune system. Currently, it is also considered to help in the potential suppression of breast cancer cells.
While they are abundant in strains that smell like lemon, this is not always the case. To determine if a strain is high in Limonene, you'll need to lab-test to know its actual content. Limonene happens in trace amounts, frequently less than 2%.
Limonene aroma?
Limonene fragrance is identified as citrusy, bitter, sweet, and sour. As stated, it is found in fruits like lemon and oranges and works as a protection mechanism. Its smell helps against pests that perceive the aromas as being toxic (Kushka, 2019).
Limonene rich cannabis cultivars:
Some strains contain higher levels of Limonene, and they can vary widely depending on growing techniques, curing processes, and genetics. The only way to know the levels present of Limonene is through lab-tested batches. The following are Trulieve strains that tend to have limonene dominant terpene profiles:
The Entourage Effect: How Limonene interacts with other Cannabinoids
As explained by Doctor Ethan Russo in his 2011 study, cannabinoids and terpenes blend in the human body to modify one another effects and, in essence, create an overall different, or "greater," efficacy based on the same molecules present and, of equal importance, the ratios in which they appear (Russo, 2011).
Limonene interacts with cannabinoids like CBC-A, THC-A, CBD-A, CBC AND CBG, and functions with other terpenes such as linalool and caryophyllene. One of Limonene's recognized properties is reducing THC's anxiety and creating a feeling of well-being.
Limonene Benefits
Limonene has shown promising potential in the following treatments:
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory:
A 2015 study in the Food and Chemical Toxicology found that Limonene exhibits antioxidant effects. At varying doses, it was a non-toxic method of reducing oxidation-induced DNA damage (Bancali, 2015)
A 2017 study published demonstrated Limonene's ability to reduce disease activity and organ damage. These effects resulted from the terpene's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which have been reported by other researchers (Yu, Yan, Zun, 2017).
Anti-anxiety:
Limonene is widely used to treat anxiety and insomnia. A 2013 study published studied Limonene's ability to reduce depression and anxiety in rodent models of these disorders. The results suggested Limonene improved anxiety-like states by interacting with the brain's serotonin system (Costa, Cury, 2013).
Anticancer:
A study published in the New Zealand journal found that Limonene inhibited the cells' growth while suppressing transplanted tumors' proliferation. Another study in 2009 determined that it could be used to treat individual prostate cancer types. A 2012 study published demonstrated that as part of a blood orange oil emulsion, Limonene could kill human colon cancer cells (Kotamballi, 2012).
Antidepressant:
limonene has shown effective in raising the mood. Some suggest the terpene as a natural antidepressant that assists restore homeostasis by blocking stress-induced immunosuppression.
Antifungal:
Limonene inhibits the growth of fungi, distinctly of species that attack food.
Immune Stimulation:
Limonene has been successful in regulating and boosting immune function.
This terpene shows multiple therapeutic benefits, including mood enhancement, digestion improvements, and anti-inflammatory properties. These give Limonene exceptional value for hundreds of illnesses and conditions related to inflammation, such as cancer, asthma, and arthritis. Other related benefits are: aid with acid flux (heartburn), dissolve gallstones, and a mild appetite suppressant (Harris, 2010).
**Note: As always, with medical conditions and symptoms, please consult with your doctor for personalized medical advice. The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated the statements made regarding these products. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
