Terpene Series – Linalool
The fourth part of our terpene series focuses on linalool. We highly recommend checking out our previous blogs on terpenes here: Myrcene – Pinene – Terpinolene
Remember, the cannabis plant produces hundreds of terpenes which help balance its hundreds of cannabinoids (i.e., THC and CBD molecules). Most plants produce terpenes, which act as a line of defence against disease by helping other chemicals within the plant work together. Around 200 plants contain linalool, including jasmine, lavender, rosewood, basil and thyme.
Do you know why lots of aromatherapy products use lavender as their main ingredient? It’s because the terpene linalool lends its distinctive floral scent to lavender and gives this flower its relaxing properties. Linalool is also found in numerous cannabis strains, where it is reported to provide pain relief and neuroprotection.
According to scientists, linalool not only affects the smell and taste of cannabis, but also contributes to the user’s high and adds its own medical benefits. Keep reading to learn more about this luscious terpene and how it works.
WHAT IS LINALOOL?
Linalool is one of the more than 200 fragrant chemical compounds, or terpenes, that act as the foundation for the pungent aroma and medicinal value of cannabis. In cannabis plants, linalool produces a lavender, spicy or woody aroma. It is also referred to as beta linalool, linaloyl oxide, linalyl alcohol or p-linalool.
Its reported effects tend to be stress relieving, mood elevating, pain relieving, anti-oxidative and antimicrobial. What’s more, this super terpene has reportedly established sedative, antidepressant, anxiolytic, and immune boosting effects.
Linalool is often found alongside its terpene cousins, limonene and myrcene. It’s a natural insecticide that kills fleas, cockroaches and fruit flies. In concentrated forms, linalool eliminates invading insects without being environmentally damaging.
HOW COMMON IS LINALOOL IN CANNABIS?
Linalool is a prevalent terpene, but it’s typically present in lower amounts than its counterparts such as myrcene, limonene, and beta caryophyllene. Although pure linalool doesn’t get you high, it seems to work alongside THC and other compounds to produce a sedative effect.
In fact, linalool refers to two mirror-image compounds with different scents: R-linalool (licaerol) and S-linalool (coriandrol). Licaerol is abundant in lavender and its soothing aroma, whereas coriandrol is found in coriander (a.k.a. cilantro), which offers its own unique herbal scent. Both linalool compounds are found in cannabis.
HOW DOES LINALOOL IMPACT THE TASTE OF CANNABIS?
People have used lavender for countless generations thanks to its appealing aroma and relaxing properties. In cannabis, linalool gives certain strains a strong lavender scent.
Among other benefits, studies have shown that linalool can reduce anxiety levels. Additionally, it gives cannabis a pleasantly sweet and fruity flavour.
WHAT EFFECT DOES HIGH LEVELS OF LINALOOL HAVE?
Even in large quantities, linalool is a safe and non-toxic compound that provides beneficial effects to users. In contrast to THC, which binds to fat tissue and is detectable weeks after consumption, linalool moves through the body swiftly.
Terpene properties are dependent upon the coexistence of other compounds. For example, when a high volume of linalool is present along with other calming terpenes such as myrcene or limonene, its mood-elevating characteristics are emphasized. So, if you’re looking to maximize linalool’s properties, find out which other terpenes are present in your chosen cannabis product.
LINALOOL-DOMINANT CANNABIS STRAINS
Check out these cannabis flower strains if you’re looking for a hit of linalool:
- Master Kush
- OG Shark
- Amnesia Haze
- L.A. Confidential
- Copper Chem
- Ecto Cooler
If you’re interested in any of the above strains, please visit our online shop or ask in the store if we have any linalool-dominant strains available. We’re happy to introduce you to our favourites.
Linalool is present in more than just the cannabis flower. Try it out in oils, edibles, and more!
WHY CONSIDER LINALOOL?
Research supports what people have experienced for centuries by using relaxing lavender-scented products and essential oils. Linalool can help reduce your stress and elevate your mood.
Beyond an enhanced mental state, researchers have discovered that this floral terpene alleviates pain, including neuropathic pain.
While science continues to explore just how linalool impacts humans, we know that it offers a balanced, enjoyable and relaxed cannabis consumption experience.