Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions.
But the plant itself is complex, producing over 100 cannabinoids, or compounds (like THC which can produce a ‘high’ and CBD which doesn’t) and over 150 different terpenes. Together, they can offer a number of potential medical benefits.
One of these terpenes is limonene.
What Is Limonene?
Limonene is a chemical that can be found in the rind of citrus fruits - like lemons, limes and oranges! In fact, it makes up around 97% of an orange rind’s essential oils. It’s also one of the most common terpenes - the part of any plant that produces its smell - that can be found in nature.
It can be added to things like food, cosmetics and cleaning products, to create that lemony scent and flavour.
The reason we’ll be exploring it today? Limonene in medical cannabis has been shown to have some potential health benefits. We’ll be diving into limonene terpene effects below.
Types of Limonene
Whilst D-Limonene and L-Limonene share an identical molecular formula, their physical characteristics, how they interact within biological systems, and their sensory profiles, particularly their aroma, are different.
D-Limonene
This is what limonene is referred to as its main chemical form. It has a strong, refreshing citrus scent, and is an effective solvent. This makes it a preferred ingredient in cleaning agents, air fresheners, and even in culinary and health supplements.
L-Limonene
Although it is chemically similar, L-Limonene has a subtler fragrance, making its uses more specialised. For example particular fragrance applications or scientific research endeavors. It’s not really included in widespread consumer products.
What Role Does Limonene Play in Cannabis?
High-tech machines are commonly used to extract individual compounds like limonene from plants. Concentrated forms of cannabis like BHO and rosin are typically made using methods that focus on extracting both cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. While some cannabis strains may have elevated levels of limonene, the extraction methods vary, as well as the source material, and isolating a single terpene isn’t the focus in cannabis extraction.
However, some strains of cannabis in flower form have terpene profiles that are naturally higher in limonene; it's worth researching online to find out which strains this might be. Remember, you should take this with a pinch of salt, and check terpene information and test results on the product you’re consuming, as total terpene percentages within a strain will vary based on other factors.
So, will you find limonene in THC & CBD strains?
Yes! Terpenes, like limonene, may work together with cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, to enhance the effects of medical cannabis, as seen in this research. Using the whole cannabis plant as medicine might be more helpful than using just its separate parts.
This idea that these elements work better together is known as the entourage effect.
Some terpenes may make it easier for cannabinoids to get into the brain, which could improve how well patients respond. So, yes, terpenes will influence the flavour and aroma of individual strains of cannabis, but studies suggest that terpenes are actually making a pretty significant contribution to the therapeutic effects of cannabis too.
Potential Health Benefits of Limonene
At a glance, limonene has been seen to potentially relieve stress, be antifungal, antibacterial, energising, mood elevating, act as an antidepressant, and be gastroprotective (supporting a healthy digestion and gut).
However, at the time of writing, there is a huge lack of evidence on human studies. So the bottom line is, when it comes to possible limonene benefits, we need to do more research to discover this terpene's full potential. Below is a snapshot of limonene’s potential health benefits:
Anti-anxiety
This study looked into limonene anxiety relief and found that, when used alongside THC, it could prevent anxiety as a side effect of medical cannabis. More studies are needed, but it’s good to see some signs of this terpene’s potential.
Anti-inflammatory
From systematic reviews, to specific studies on inflammatory bowel disease and limonene vs Ibuprofen and other pharmaceuticals, there are promising results that point towards limonene being a possible anti-inflammatory with little to no side effects for patients suffering from all types of chronic inflammation.
Cancer Treatment
Again, more research is needed, but there is evidence that shows limonene having the potential to slow tumor growth. It’s important to keep in mind that there’s no hard evidence to suggest medical cannabis will cure cancer. But we do know it can work well alongside other cancer treatments.
Limonene vs Other Cannabis Terpenes
Although different terpenes have different effects, they can sometimes complement each other. This goes back to the entourage effect. So, instead of looking at different terpenes such as myrcene (which has sedative properties, is a pain reliever, muscle relaxant, and relieves anxiety) and pinene (which is antibacterial, antiseptic, pain relieving, anti-inflammatory, anxiety relieving, relaxes lung muscles and widens the airways) separately, we should look at how they can complement each other, and how they affect you individually.
For example, linalool is another common terpene found in the cannabis plant that is stress relieving, pain relieving (including neuropathic [nerve] pain), boosts the immune system, acts as a relaxant and relieves anxiety. Some of these overlap with the potential benefits of limonene. And this means linalool could enhance the effects of limonene when taken together. In other words, the entourage effect!
And just because there’s research that suggests a terpene may work a certain way, doesn’t necessarily mean it will be your reality. Cannabis products and strains can impact everyone differently. Effects are often subjective and different blends of different terpenes will have different effects on different bodies!
Limonene Side Effects and Safety Concerns (FAQ type)
Will limonene irritate my skin?
In some cases, it could cause an allergic reaction, and it is possible to be allergic to terpenes. However, these reactions are very rare and very low risk. It’s most likely to happen with a high concentration, much higher than the levels found in the cannabis plant. But, if you’re ever concerned, just start low and go slow.
Will limonene cause gastrointestinal upset?
Although more research is needed, current studies suggest limonene could actually help reduce acid reflux symptoms, and is more of a stomach soother.
Is limonene used in skincare and other industries?
Limonene is known to have some anti-bacterial properties, making it a great ingredient for not just skincare products, but also cleaning products. It can also be used in cosmetics and cleaning products to add a fresh citrus fragrance.
Some users may experience headaches. Other possible side effects of medical cannabis in general include:
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in weight
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry Mouth
- Increased Appetite
- Psychoactive Effects. However, the ‘high’ feeling cannabis can be associated with is much more controlled with medical cannabis due to the dosage guidance of a clinician.
Also keep in mind that medical cannabis could potentially interact with other medications. If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to speak to your Doctor or clinician.
Most serious side effects are uncommon and can vary depending on personal factors such as your past use, physiology and health condition, as well as consumption method (for example oil, vaporiser, edible), and THC and CBD content. Don’t worry too much, and if you’re ever concerned, speak to your clinician. They’ll explain everything in detail ahead of prescribing any medication.
Summary
It’s hard to say what the best cannabis strains with limonene are as it depends on you, your symptoms and even consumption method. But there’s no denying the potential health benefits this terpene has.
The best thing to do is speak to your Doctor or clinician, or seek the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf if you’re considering medical cannabis. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second questionnaire.