You may have experienced the many ways cannabis helps our bodies and our minds by soothing aches and pains, fighting stress and uplifting mood, or providing critical support for the management of various chronic symptoms and conditions.
You’re probably already familiar with the concept of cannabinoids, the “active ingredients” like THC and CBD that impart many of the cannabis plant’s medicinal properties. But they’re not the only game in town. Terpenes are another important class of active ingredients in cannabis, affecting our bodies and minds—and the linalool terpene is one you should have on your radar.
Keep reading for a deep dive into the world of this fascinating compound to explore such questions as:
- What is linalool?
- What does this terpene smell and taste like?
- How does linalool partner with our bodies?
- What are some linalool-rich strains of cannabis I can try?
Ready to explore this all-natural stress-fighter? Let’s get started.
What Is Linalool? A Floral, Citrus-Sweet and Woody Terpene
Whether you know it or not, you’ve probably interacted with linalool before. It’s the main constituent of another calming herb, the lavender plant, which gives it an instantly recognizable scent.
We humans have known for centuries that inhaling the scent of fresh lavender has a uniquely calming effect. That’s one reason it’s been used in herbal blends, scented pillows, salves, and aromatherapies targeted at relaxation for centuries.
Outside of lavender, linalool is produced by over 200 plant species, and it’s prominent in the flavor and aroma profiles of many foods, such as:
- Coriander: These dried seeds are widely used in cuisines spanning Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Mediterranean
- Basil: One of the world’s favorite herbs, most popular in Italy and all across Asia
- Lemon, Grapefruit, Orange: Though the terpene limonene is more often associated with citrus, linalool is a critical secondary player
These foods should provide you a hint as to linalool’s unique aroma and flavor: Floral, citrus-like, sweet, and fresh. For some, it has a uniquely beguiling woody undertone, similar to that of a fresh lavender plant found in the wild.
Linalool’s Potential Effects, Benefits and Uses
We’ve mentioned already that linalool is used as an all-natural stress-fighter. Beyond helping to relieve tension, here are some other potential therapeutic benefits and uses currently being explored for this powerful terpene.
Pain Relief
Linalool has a wide range of effects on our central nervous system, helping regulate certain brain chemicals such as adenosine and glutamate. What’s more, it utilizes a distinctive mechanism of pain control by reducing the strength of acetylcholine, another brain chemical responsible for helping control muscle contractions and movement.
In one study, patients who had recently undergone gastric banding surgery demonstrated a marked decrease in their reliance on opioid painkillers after exposure to linalool. And another experiment found that linalool acted as a powerful antinociceptive, meaning that it showed the potential to reduce pain without causing negative effects on our consciousness (such as dizziness or altered perception).
Anti-Microbial
Many terpenes have been shown to have broadly antibacterial properties, and linalool is no exception. Especially in an era of increasingly drug-resistant microbes, linalool may have a role to play in helping fight infections naturally. It’s also being investigated as a possible antimicrobial agent to help protect our food systems.
Anti-Depressant
Given the need for effective, sustainable treatments for anxiety and depression, there’s hope that linalool might present an all-natural alternative. In a rodent-based study, researchers found that linalool helped mice reduce depression-like behavioral signifiers. When confronted with seemingly impossible situations, the mice would continue to try and escape rather than surrender.
Another, more recent review of the current medical literature found several exciting areas for potential further study, noting that: “Although still scarce, existing research points to linalool as a promising natural compound in treating depression.”
From where we stand, that’s exciting news, and we’ll be sure to keep you abreast of developments as they happen!
4 Linalool-Rich Cannabis Strains
Interested in experiencing the linalool terpene for yourself? We can help with that! Here are a few strains where linalool is a power player:
- Glitterbomb from 1937
A classic indica-dominant hybrid, Glitterbomb practically explodes with a frosty coating of trichomes that glisten on a background of deep colored flower. Premium genetics come courtesy of Grape Gas #10 crossed with OGKB Blueberry Headband and the high-octane high courtesy of a hefty 21% THC content.
- Gary Payton from 1937
As an award-winning hybrid strain, Gary Payton delivers a potent, especially long-lasting euphoria that’s just the thing for taming stress and uplifting mood. A cross between the Y and Snowman, it’s also known for its dazzling, colorful appearance and—at roughly 22%—a strong and persistent potency.
- Strawberry Milkshake from Boundary Waters
As a perfect 50/50 hybrid, Strawberry Milkshake delivers even-keeled effects, relaxing tired and tense muscles while calming stressed and overactive minds. Beware: This strain—a cross between Strawberry Soda and White Fire Alien OG—is known to dispense a touch of the giggles along with cerebral uplift and noticeably heavy eyes.
- Biscotti Pancake from Vireo
A cross between the now-legendary Biscotti and Pancakes, this strain is as notable for its sweet, nutty, syrup-like flavor as for its effects. Speaking of which, they often include a subtle but ever-growing hit of cerebral energy, which can do wonders for stress. As you become more calm and balanced a full-body relaxation sets in, washing away aches and pains and setting you up for a peaceful end of the day.
Explore the Aromatic World of Terpenes with Green Goods
We very much hope you’ve enjoyed this deep dive into the aromatic world of the linalool terpene. Besides contributing to the unique characteristics of many cannabis strains, research shows that linalool may have an important role to play in combating stress and depression—even potentially helping us to relieve pain the all-natural way.
As one of the nation’s favorite families of dispensaries, we’re excited to offer exceptional cannabis, great customer service, and the kind of science-based, authoritative cannabis knowledge that helps our customers make wise, well-informed decisions about cannabis.
If you have any other questions about the linalool terpene, cannabis compounds—or any other cannabis-related topics—just drop us a line. We’re always here to help. And if you’d like to learn about another fresh and punchy player in cannabis terpenes, check out our post on limonene.
