Terpenes are aromatic molecules that are abundant in the plant (and animal) world. The pleasant and powerful aromas during a walk through a pine forest or when biting into a juicy piece of grapefruit are largely due to these volatile substances. They also create the special and distinctive smell of cannabis. Different strains smell different because the amount of these molecules varies from one “chemovar” (cultivar with unique chemicals) to another. Moreover, they taste different and even have various physiological effects. Linalool is one of those terpenes, instantly recognized by some and abundant in certain cannabis strains. We will delve into the unique potential and characteristics of linalool in this article. First, however, we will examine the relationship between cannabis and terpenes in general.
HOW DO TERPENES AFFECT THE HIGH OF CANNABIS?
We have long known that the cannabinoid THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is responsible for the psychoactive high when you smoke cannabis. Other cannabinoids, such as CBD (cannabidiol) and CBN (cannabinol), also seem to be linked to effects that affect your mood. For example, they provide clarity, relaxation, or a sense of calm while not being intoxicating. However, advances in scientific research have revealed further nuances that make the psychoactive aspect of cannabis even more complex. And terpenes play a big role in this. Terpenes interact with each other to provide enhanced [1]mood. The concept of ‘[2]bathing in the woods’ (walking through a forest with the aim of relaxation) even seems to be beneficial to your health. You get a lot of terpenes, while enjoying the natural aromas. It is thought that terpenes play a major role in both the psychoactive and physical effects of cannabis. In addition to the unique effect of these terpenes, research shows that they work in synergy with cannabinoids. And this enhances the properties of both. We also call this phenomenon the entourage effect. Terpenes play an important role in cannabis plants. The same glandular trichomes that produce cannabinoids also produce these substances as secondary metabolites. In doing so, the trichomes try to ward off predators and attract pollinators. Therefore, they give off resin that is rich in fragrant terpenes. We can divide the terpenes of cannabis into two primary groups. For example, there are mono-terpenes with two isoprenes that have high bioavailability when inhaled. Therefore, you experience the effects of these terpenes primarily when you smoke. Examples of mono-terpenes are myrcene, ocimeen and limonene. Sesquiterpenes are the second class of terpenes. These are made up of three isoprenes. Examples of sesquiterpenes are caryophyllene and humulene.
HOW CAN YOU BENEFIT FROM LINALOOL?
The mono-terpene linalool is a molecule with intriguing potential. It is highly aromatic and gives lavender, basil and roses their distinctive scent. Linalool appears to have a synergistic relationship with certain cannabinoids. In doing so, it potentially enhances the beneficial effects of these compounds. [3]For example, research shows that linalool stimulates the muscle relaxing effect of THC. Thus, linalool plays a key role in the entourage effect. In addition, research on isolated linalool shows that it has impressive qualities of its own. Let’s take a look at the various ways in which linalool can be beneficial to the body and mind.
CAN LINALOOL REDUCE TENSION?
Have you ever put a few drops of lavender oil in the bath and found that all your tension and worries fade away? Or have you ever smoked a specific cannabis strain that improved your mood? This could be because it contains linalool. Essential oils have been used throughout history to alter states of consciousness. This is especially true in the areas of meditation and prayer. Linalool may have played a role in this because of its calming properties. Research in the journal Phytomedicine suggests that the terpene can reduce tension. The study sought to find out the effects of inhaled linalool on tension, aggression and social interaction in mice. The results indeed showed that it helped reduce tension.
CAN LINALOOL CHEER YOU UP?
Litsea glaucescens, also called Mexican bay leaf, is a shrub native to Mexico. People use the plant because it is said to be beneficial for your mood. The active components in the essential oil from its leaves are linalool and pineene. Research[4] in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology examined the calming effects of this essential oil by giving it to mice. The preparation demonstrated a perking effect at doses of 100 and 300mg/kg. Therefore, the researchers conclude that Mexican bay leaf can indeed be effective for dejection.
THESE STRAINS ARE A GREAT SOURCE OF LINALOOL
Now you probably already know a lot more about the intriguing properties of linalool. But you might also like to know which cannabis strains contain high levels of this calming terpene? Amnesia Haze is a great source of linalool. This award-winning variety is sativa-dominant and offers high THC levels and medium CBD content. The high is motivating and energizing and suitable for daytime when you have tasks to complete. Each puff is packed with refreshing hints of linalool. Indoors and outdoors, this strain reaches medium height and has a flowering time of 12-13 weeks. Indoors, the plants yield 600g/m² and one plant outdoors generates up to 650g. View Amnesia Haze (Zamnesia Seeds) feminized (66) Parents: Amnesia Haze Genetics: 30% Indica / 70% Sativa Flowering time: 12-13 weeks THC: 21% CBD: 3% Flowering type: Photoperiod The same genetics are also available in autoflowering format in the form of Amnesia Haze Automatic. This lady offers a corresponding sativa high and refreshing aroma. In the process, she has won several awards for her impressive effects and yields. The buds contain average values of both THC and CBD. Indoors and outdoors, the plants reach a height of 150cm. They are ready for harvest about 10-11 weeks after germination. Indoor plants can yield up to 500g/m². An outdoor plant will give you around 150g. View Amnesia Haze Automatic (Zamnesia Seeds) feminized (93) Parents: Amnesia Haze x Ruderalis Genetics: Auto Sativa Flowering time: 10-11 weeks THC: 18% CBD: 3% Flowering type: Autoflowering
