Limonene | Noun
/ˈli-mə-ˌnēn/
- A terpene recognizable for its zesty citrus fragrance, primarily in lemon, but also in orange, lime, and grapefruit. Limonene is found in the peels of these citrus fruits and in many varieties of cannabis.
Limonene is found in mint, juniper, Rosemary, walnut, and cannabis. This terpene is a antidepressant, anxiolytic, immuno-stimulant, antibacterial, and anticancer agent. Limonene is among the most widely used terpenes. This very aromatic terpene is abundantly produced from the trichomes of many cannabis breeds, together with cannabinoids. Just like other terpenes, limonene has its interaction modes within the body.
Cannabis is among the plants with the best complexity of terpenes, bringing us all their aromas and curative effects. The blend of unique terpenes and cannabinoids is known as the entourage impact. This synergetic activity between terpenes and the rest of the all-natural cannabis compounds is proven to significantly modify, and enhance, the activity of the single THC, CBD, or other cannabinoid. Among its compound forms makes limonene odor mostly like tangerine, while some other form smells like lemon, as well as the other tastes like grapefruit. Studies on the entourage effect in cannabis have discovered that limonene activates synergies with different cannabinoids and other terpenes. The increased cell permeability caused by limonene facilitates the assimilation of different substances by the body. Limonene may be used as a treatment for bronchitis, and men and women believe this terpene may add a great subtle flavor and freshness to smoke and vapor, as well as a more accentuated therapeutic impact. Instead of THC, limonene never entered any record of controlled substances. Therefore, researchers have been more free to concentrate on its possible effectiveness as an antidepressant, anxiolytic, immuno-stimulant, antibacterial, and anti inflammatory agent. This chemical is also utilized in diets aimed at weight reduction, in treating ulcers and gastrointestinal reflux, as an antiseptic and also an insect repellent. Additionally, there are undergoing trials for utilizing limonene to treat depression and stress: through testing about the effects of limonene, participants experienced a rise in attention, mental attention, well-being and even libido.
A 2011 study conducted at the University of Arizona and printed in the journal Oncology Reviews found that limonene results in modulate the body’s immune system, leading to an anti-cancer impact.
A 2013 study from the same university and published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research discovered limonene effective in preventing cancer cell regeneration and reducing tumor size.
A 2014 study conducted in France and published in the journal Anti-inflammatory and Anti-allergy Agents in Medicinal Chemistry reported that limonene has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which makes this terpene a promising choice in the treatment of certain forms of cancer. This study found that limonene can stop tumors from damaging surrounding healthy tissue by reducing their ability to create new blood vessels. Eventually, this terpene was also found to play a role in treating damaged skin and regenerating mobile tissues.
Limonene pairs well with lemon curd tarts, orange smoothies, shrimp ceviche, carne asada tacos, avocado toast, poke, etc.
Limonene dominant strains: Blueberry Kush, Banana OG, Berry White, Black Cherry Soda, Cinex, Do-Si-Dos, MAC, Purple Hindu Kush, Quantum Kush, Dirty Girl, Durban Poison, Jack Herer, Jack the Ripper, Lemon Diesel, OG Kush, Sour Diesel, Super Lemon Haze
Effects of Limonene: Mood elevation, euphoria, stress relief, energetic
National Library of Medicine
- Biochemical significance of limonene and its metabolites: future prospects for designing and developing highly potent anticancer drugs
- Microbial production of limonene and its derivatives: Achievements and perspectives
- Neuroprotective Effects of Limonene (+) against Aβ42-Induced Neurotoxicity in a Drosophila Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
- Encapsulated Limonene: A Pleasant Lemon-Like Aroma with Promising Application in the Agri-Food Industry. A Review
- Gastroprotective effect of limonene in rats: Influence on oxidative stress, inflammation and gene expression