terpene spotlight: limonene

in this terpene spotlight series, we will explore a specific terpene each time and learn its effects and benefits within cannabis. terpenes are scented compounds that produce a unique taste and smell in plants like cannabis, lavender, and fresh orange peels. if you smell the “marijuana”, it’s the “terpene” that is doing its job. it is also meant to work together with cannabinoids like thc and cbd to do the best job of cannabis. each cannabis strain has many terpenes that form a complex aroma profile, and the highlight of today’s edition is limonene.

when cannabinoids meet terpenes

before diving into the benefits and effects of limonene, we need to first understand what makes cannabis “great”. this has something to do with the phenomenon of the synergy between cannabinoids and terpenes – the entourage effect. when cannabinoids like thc and cbd work together with terpenes and hundreds of other compounds in cannabis, it allows the beneficial effect to happen when consuming. meanwhile, terpenes can intensify or downplay the effects of the cannabinoids. that’s why two similar strains can actually produce extremely different effects.

but what’s limonene?

this citrusy terpene is common in fruit rinds and herbs like rosemary, as it is the second most common terpene in nature. limonene is used in food and beverages, and many more household items like cleaning products and soaps.

limonene is the third most commonly found terpene in marijuana. it gives one of the most distinct smells with a fresh and sweet-tart scent. some studies show that limonene has antidepressant qualities that potentially help relieve stress and elevate mood, as it increases serotonin and dopamine levels. in fact, aromatherapy is one of the examples that lauded the mood-boosting effects of limonene for a long time.

it’s more than a mood-booster

other than its potential on elevating your mood, limonene is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. limonene can reduce heartburn, ulcers, and gallstones as it is gastroprotective. studies have also shown the use of limonene for effective treatments for anxiety and depression. and more research is exploring its anti-cancer potential along with other compounds in cannabis like cannabinoids.

best way to get most out of limonene

a vaporizer with temperature control may be the best way for you to get the most out of the terpene found in cannabis. the optimal temperature for each terpene varies widely, so it is key to research the temperature of the desired terpenes you may want to release. for example, if you want to enjoy the desired effects of limonene, its optimal temperature will be something you pay attention to.

some strains are rich in limonene, in offside cannabis, we offer a few limonene-dominant options for you to choose from, including pre-rolls, flower, or vapes. Not sure what is best for you? Visit our store to ask our budtenders for recommendations. Here are also some that you may like.

sundial – citrus orchard

pre-rolls – sativa – 3×0.5g

jenn’s og – chocolate marshmallows pre-rolls – hybrid – 7×0.5g

edison cannabis co. – frozen lemons (sat) – 3.5g

bzam – cobra lips (sat) – 3.5g

boxhot – peach og 510 thread cartridge – sat – 1.2g

back forty – strawberry cough 510 thread cartridge – sativa – 1g