Will Limonene Really Enhance Your Mood?

• Limonene is the citrusy terpene found in cannabis, lemons, and oranges.
• Research is still in early stages, but limonene may provide many health and wellness benefits.
• These are our favorite limonene-dominant cannabis strains.
• This summer salmon salad pairs perfectly with limonene.

7-minute read

Terpene 101

Have you ever wondered why different strains of cannabis have their own distinct smells? Wonder no more. Terpenes, like limonene and myrcene, are the aromatic compounds that give cannabis and other plants their scents. But new research suggests that terpenes can also have therapeutic benefits—either on their own or in tandem with cannabinoids.

Limonene, the citrusy terpene

Limonene is one of the more popular terpenes because of its potential health and wellness benefits. The highest concentrations of it are in orange rinds. It’s got a bright, citrusy smell that’ll bring a little sunshine to your cannabis routine. You might think limonene would be high only in lemon-scented strains. But that’s not necessarily true. The only real way to know whether a strain is high in a particular terpene is to check the lab analysis on the package. Word to the wise, while cannabis flower typically contains 10-30% THC, its limonene content will be much lower—usually less than 2%.

The Science

Limonene is one of the most studied cannabis terpenes. Despite its potential for therapeutic benefits, though, we still don’t know much about how it actually works. Many of the limonene studies that have been completed thus far have depended on much higher doses of the terpene than is found in cannabis. So more research is definitely needed—especially in humans.

Limonene, cannabis, and anxiety

We all have anxiety, whether we like to admit it or not. And we can personally attest to consuming cannabis to soothe our own. We’ve found that limonene-rich strains are some of the best for relieving our anxiety. In fact, the inhalation of limonene has been shown to reduce anxiety symptoms by increasing serotonin and dopamine levels in mice. Of course, part of that could be its uplifting citrus scent.

Limonene and inflammation

Whether you’re an athlete prone to injuries and inflammation, someone who’s on their feet all day, or you suffer from an inflammatory disorder, you might want to give limonene a try. A 2010 study in the Journal of Food Science found that limonene inhibits cytokines, which are responsible for triggering inflammation in the body. With this potential health booster, you might be able to fight off inflammation as easily as lighting one up after a tough crossfit class.

Limonene as an antioxidant

What if we told you there might be a connection between cannabis and reducing your risk of disease overall? Scientists still need to do more work on this one. But they have found that limonene might possess antioxidant effects. One study looked at the antioxidant activity of limonene and found it could potentially protect lymphocytes from diseases that are related to oxidative stress. In simpler terms, limonene could be a key player in protecting the body from disease as a whole. Now, wouldn’t that be something?

Digestive health and limonene

If you suffer from digestive issues, limonene might be your new BFF. Based on a 2009 study, the essential oil from Citrus aurantium (OEC) and limonene have shown promise in the development of a new drug targeted at preventing gastric damage. A combo of OEC and limonene are already being used to treat gastritis and other gastrointestinal disorders. The short version is that limonene has the potential to support a healthy digestive system. So, a new form of relief may be on the horizon for us sufferers of IBS, gastritis, etc. We’re all for any natural treatments we can get our hands on.

Limonene and heart health

Limonene could also impact your heart health. Yep, you heard that right. In a study on mice, a small dose of d-limonene seems to have reduced triglycerides, lowered fasting blood sugar levels, and decreased fat accumulation in the liver. Another study specifically explored how d-limonene might benefit people with metabolic disorders, like hyperglycemia and high lipid levels. Of course, we’re still waiting for human studies to confirm the findings. But we’ll keep our ears to the scientific ground.

Here’s how to get your guests in a great mood with limonene

Just like sunny yellow, limonene is unequivocally an uplifting scent. What better inspiration for your soirée than something that gets everyone in a great mood? Check out our video on how to integrate limonene into a fabulous dinner party.

Our Fave limonene strains

Have we convinced you to give limonene a whirl? Here are six of our favorite limonene strains. We think you’ll love them, too!

Do-Si-Dos

Sweet, earthy, and slightly floral, Do-Si-Dos is the perfect limonene-dominant strain to get you buzzed. Do-Si-Dos is an indica-dominant hybrid with a nice potency of 20% THC. Whether you smoke it or ingest it as an edible, you’ll be feeling relaxed and happy before you know it.

Berry White

Berry White is the perfect strain to put you in an upbeat, creative mood. Its flowers have a sour berry/pine flavor. This limonene-dominant strain is the offspring of Blueberry and White Widow. Warning: Berry White may lead to a burst of creativity and happiness!

Tahoe OG

Staying in? Tahoe OG’s your best friend. Just make sure you plan on having a lazy day. This strain is strong, fast-acting, and known to induce sleepy relaxation. For that reason, Tahoe OG is best consumed at night when it can reduce insomnia and pain. What makes this strain unique from other indicas is its euphoric, sativa-like kick. The next time you need your best night’s sleep, give Tahoe OG a try.

Strawberry Banana

This strain is as sweet as it sounds. Like a strawberry banana smoothie, Strawberry Banana is fruity and sweet. Its dominant terpene is limonene, which contributes to its natural fruity flavor. With effects that sharpen creativity, Strawberry Banana is a must-try for your next day of DIY Pinterest crafts. Its high THC content is also sure to leave you feeling happy and peaceful.

Wedding Cake

Wedding Cake is popular in the medical cannabis community because of its effects on pain, insomnia, and appetite loss. This is another top-tier limonene-dominant strain. It calms the body and mind into relaxed euphoria. Wedding Cake is rich, tangy, and earthy. It’s also pretty potent with about 22% THC. This is definitely a strain newbies and us microdosers will want to try with care. As always, start low and go slow!

Super Sour Diesel

Looking for a strain that does it all? Super Sour Diesel is here to save the day. Living up to its name, this strain tastes kinda like fuel when it’s smoked. But don’t let that deter you from all the benefits it has to offer. It’s also one of those strains that fosters euphoric creativity while killing off stress and pain. Like Wedding Cake, this strain is potent and produces strong cerebral effects that can overpower new cannabis consumers.

What goes with limonene?

Naturally, when you consume cannabis, you can get hungry. But we’re never satisfied with ordinary munchies. You want something delicious, flavorful, and refreshing—especially in the summer heat. Nothing compliments the citrusy notes of limonene better than herbs like thyme and oregano. The next time you consume a limonene strain, pair it with a yummy summer one-dish meal. We love this one that we found on Epicurious. It’s a quick-prep summer salad for 4 with salmon,  tomato, and za’atar dressing.

Summer Salmon salad with tomato and za’atar ingredients

• Kosher salt
• 2 lemons
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 3 bay leaves, preferably fresh
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 teaspoons za’atar, plus more for serving
• 5 ears corn on the cob, husked (optional)
• 4 (5-6 ounce) skinless salmon fillets or smoked salmon
• 2 medium heirloom tomatoes, cut into wedges (about 1½ lbs)
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• Baby arugula or other baby greens (for serving)

Summer Salmon salad with tomato and za’atar instructions

1. Generously salt a large pot of water. Thinly slice half of 1 lemon and add to water along with garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then let boil for 3-10 minutes until water is fully infused.
2. While mixture is boiling, whisk oil, 3 tbsp. lemon juice, 4 tsp. za’atar, and 1 tsp. salt in a small bowl.
3. If using corn, add it to boiling water and cook until bright yellow and tender, about 6 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
4. Reduce heat to low, gently add salmon, and poach just until cooked through, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board with a slotted spoon or spatula and flake into chunks. Or substitute smoked salmon to really reduce your time at the stove.
5. If you’re adding corn, slice it off the cob into a large bowl. Add tomatoes and onion, then toss with 1/2 cup dressing.
6. Add flaked salmon to corn mixture and toss very gently just to coat with dressing. Transfer to a serving platter or divide among plates. Top with arugula, then drizzle with remaining dressing. Serve with additional za’atar alongside.