Limonene
Category: Scientific · Level: Expert
Limonene is a cannabis terpene with a citrus aroma, studied for potential anti-anxiety, antidepressant, and anti-cancer properties.
Limonene is a cyclic monoterpene and one of the most common terpenes in cannabis and citrus fruits. It is responsible for bright, citrusy aromas in many popular cultivars. Beyond aroma, limonene has been studied for potential therapeutic properties including anxiolytic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor activities in preclinical models. Limonene is used extensively in the food, fragrance, and pharmaceutical industries. In cannabis pharmacology, it is proposed to modulate the activity of THC and other cannabinoids as part of the entourage effect. Some research suggests limonene may inhibit growth of certain cancer cell lines, though human clinical data is limited.
Also known as
D-limonene, Citrus terpene
Usage
- Medical
- Scientific
Related terms
- Linalool — Linalool is a floral cannabis terpene also abundant in lavender, studied for sedative, anxiolytic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Entourage Effect — The entourage effect is the proposed synergistic interaction between cannabinoids, terpenes, and other cannabis compounds that may enhance overall therapeutic effects.
- Terpene — Terpenes are aromatic organic compounds produced by cannabis and many other plants, responsible for distinct flavors and scents, and potentially contributing to therapeutic effects.
- Terpene Profile — A terpene profile is the specific combination and concentration of terpenes present in a cannabis cultivar, used to characterize its aroma, flavor, and potential effects.
- Myrcene — Myrcene is the most abundant terpene in commercial cannabis cultivars, producing earthy and musky aromas, and studied for sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.