What is Limonene?
Limonene is a common terpene found in the peels of citrus fruits and various fruits and plants, including cannabis. It’s known for its zesty citrus aroma and is one of the most common terpenes in nature.
Here are some key key features of limonene:
- Aroma and Flavour: Limonene has a bright, zesty citrus scent and flavours, reminiscent of lemons, limes, and oranges.
- Natural Sources: Besides citrus fruits, limonene is found in other plants like rosemary, juniper, and peppermint. It's also present in certain cannabis strains.
- Uses: Limonene is widely used in cleaning products, cosmetics, and food flavourings because of its pleasant scent and taste. It's also used in aromatherapy for its uplifting properties.
- Potential Benefits: Some studies suggest that limonene may have various health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mood-enhancing effects. It’s also being researched for its potential to aid digestion and support immune function.
- Presence in Cannabis: In cannabis, limonene contributes to the strain's overall aroma and flavor profile. It’s often associated with strains that have uplifting and mood-boosting effects.
While research on limonene's effects in cannabis is still ongoing, its widespread use in other areas highlights its versatility and potential benefits.
What Does Limonene Smell Like?
As you might guess from the its name, cannabis strains that are high in limonene smell like citrus fruit. Think: lemons and limes, but also oranges, mandarins, yuzu, and grapefruits, as well as in juniper and rosemary.
How Does Limonene Make You Feel?
There haven't been scientific studies that directly link limonene-heavy cannabis strains to specific effects. However, a few studies have looked at citrus oils (which contain limonene) and found that it had a calming effect on mice and, in a small human study, participants felt an uplifted mood after exposure to lemon essential oil.
Terpenes 101
Want to learn more? Check out our terpene overview or dive deeper into other common cannabis terpenes like myrcene, caryophyllene, limonene, and terpinolene.
