Limonene is a common terpene found in many weed strains. It’s responsible for that delicious, lemony flavour that you taste. This aromatic chemical compound is found not only in weed, but in many citrus fruits, like lemons and oranges.
This terpene is secreted alongside well-known cannabinoids, like THC and CBD. However, it is only secreted in trace amounts. While most weed strains will carry anywhere from 10% to 30% THC, the most that each bud will secrete is about 1% to 2% of limonene. Even though it’s only available in trace amounts, a little goes a long way. Only a small amount of these oils is needed for you to get that lemony, citrusy flavour and taste that you adore.
If you’ve ever heard of limonene referred to as d-limonene, d-limonene is a reference to the more abundant chemical structure found in nature.
Many people used to be under the assumption that limonene and other terpenes are only good for adding flavour. This myth was debunked a long time ago. Studies show that these terpenes also possess many medicinal properties. Let’s look at some of them below.
What Are Terpenes?
What are terpenes, otherwise known as terps? Even if you’re just a recreational smoker, there’s a good chance that you’ve heard of the term ‘terps’. Terpenes are organic compounds produced by any type of plant. These compounds are particularly abundant in weed.
There are at least 100 different types of terpenes in weed. Each one will change the type of effect that you get from the weed, as well as its overall flavour and taste. Knowing what terps to expect in each type of weed can help you determine which strains are best for your overall needs.
It’s possible to isolate terpenes from weed. In fact, many extractors do this in order to add more flavour to their distillates. Limonene is just one type of terpene that you can find in weed. It is, however, one of the most common terps that you can find, and is present in almost all citrus strains.
This terpene can also be extracted and used as an essential oil. Some cleaning products may also contain limonene to give you that clean, fresh smell that many people adore. It’s also added as a food additive for flavouring.
Some Health Benefits of Limonene
Many scientists have begun to look at the many health benefits that come with terpenes. Limonene, in particular, is linked with many health benefits including, but not limited to:
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Some studies have shown that limonene in weed can have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, as it reduces nitric oxide production. It can also reduce damage caused by free radicals within the body. This is good news for those struggling with chronic pain associated with disorders like arthritis.
- Stress-reducing effects. Those who inhale limonene may find that this terpene can reduce stress levels. Weed strains with this terp are a great smoke after a long, tiring day.
- Cardiac health improvement. Limonene may be able to reduce the risk of heart disease. This chemical compound may be able to lower cholesterol, blood sugar and triglyceride levels.
- Anticancer effects. It’s no secret that many cancer patients will often smoke weed. Limonene has been known to have anticancer effects. A recent study found that women with breast cancer saw a 22% reduction in breast tumour cell expression if they consumed 2 grams of limonene every day for 2 to 6 weeks.
- Reduced appetite. Some studies show that limonene may be able to reduce a person’s appetite. This is not tested on humans yet.
- Healthier digestion. Limonene may be able to treat ulcers and offer protection against them.
It’s important to note that most research in this area has only looked at the effects of limonene in test tubes. Due to this reason, these tests may not necessarily be an accurate indication of what can happen within the human body.
What Are Some Strains that Are High in Limonene
Are you ready to enjoy some of the health benefits of limonene? Well, the first thing that you have to do is make sure that you choose strains of bud that have high levels of limonene. Not all weed may contain this terpene. In most cases, you can’t go wrong with weed that has a lemony, citrusy scent and favour.
CannabudPost is an online dispensary that offers many AAA and AAAA flowers grown by BC growers. We have quite a few flowers in stock that are rich in limonene, as well as other terpenes. Let’s take a look at some of the examples below.
If you’re wondering what other weed strains have limonene, please do not reach out to us by emailing us at cannabudpost@protonmail.com. These other strains may contain limonene but in smaller amounts (< 1%).
Alien OG
Alien OG is one of our more popular weed strains. Not only are the nugs beautiful and colourful, but the flavour of this weed is intense. Once busted up, you’ll be hit with an intense lemony scent with a hint of pine. Some smokers also report smelling some skunk in this indica weed. The flavours are pronounced.
You’ll get the most out of the flavours if you smoke this weed through a bong. The smooth smoke will give you a psychedelic head high with little to no body buzz. Some users report feeling sleepy after several smokes.
Alien OG is great for treating pain and stress as well. The effects are strong, and you should feel it almost immediately. Other terpenes that you can find in Alien OG include myrcene and caryophyllene. Generally speaking, this is more of a nighttime smoke.
Lemon Sour Diesel
Those who enjoy smoking during the day cannot go wrong with Lemon Sour Diesel. This is a hybrid strain that is sativa-dominant. It’s a great choice for those who actively seek out weed with intense lemon flavours, which outshine the diesel component. The flavour profile of this weed strain is quite complex. Many users would agree that you’d first get with a lemony scent that would then give way to many other flavours.
This type of weed is great for those who are looking for pain relief and to relax after a stressful day. Be careful though! Although Lemon Sour Diesel is a sativa, its effects have been known to sneak up on consumers, so be patient when smoking this bud. Make sure that you take your time; otherwise, you might feel its full effects out of nowhere.
Nuken
A popular Canadian strain that you can’t go wrong with is Nuken. This potent bud is a cross of God Bud and two Shiskaberry parents. Nuken is known for having a sweet, earthy aroma with hints of fresh herbs and grass. You should also be able to taste a hint of lemon when you smoke this delicious strain. Some users also report getting some type of skunky undertone as well.
Our Nuken is extremely potent, but it does not have a sedative effect. It offers a pleasant body buzz that leaves most smokers feeling a bit tingly afterwards. This strain is great for those looking to relax. It’s also been used to treat insomnia, migraines, aches and pains.
How to Get the Most Out of Limonene?
To get the most out of this terpene, you need to vaporize it. This is the best way for your body to absorb these essential oils. Limonene vaporizes at 348 degrees Fahrenheit, or 176 degrees Celsius.
The levels of limonene in the bud will also have an effect. If you’re interested in the health benefits that limonene can offer, you’ll want to look for bud with a high dose of this terpene.
Weed Has Many Incredible Health Benefits
Since the legalization of weed in Canada, many more researchers are looking at the health benefits of weed. So far, most research has looked at the effects of cannabinoids, like THC and CBD. Not many people have looked at the health effects of terpenes.
Recent studies show that terpenes may actually do a lot more than what you’d think. These organic compounds may have a huge impact on the effects that each weed strain may have.
If you’re interested in learning more about the type of weed that may be most suitable for your condition, leave us a comment below. Or, you can contact us directly by emailing cannabudpost@protonmail.com at any time!
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