Terpene profiles of cannabis strains are now believed to play a large role in the efficiency and treatment of different conditions. Take a look at why limonene is considered the best terpene for treating anxiety and buy cannabis online that is packed with limonene.
Being the second most abundant terpene in the plant kingdom, it is easy to find strains that have high levels of this terpene. Because of the rich lemon scent, this terpene is often added to perfumes and products.
What is Limonene?
Limonene is a terpene that is produced within the cannabis plant (among other plants).
Plants produce terpenes for protection against bacteria, microbes, and oxidant. Once consumed, limonene is believed to assist with brain function. While more research is needed on the subject, scientists are researching how limonene interacts with the body in the hopes of understanding how to use limonene in the treatment of ailments such as anxiety and neurological disorders.
Limonene Risks
Limonene is widely considered to be a safe substance.
However, the amount for the safe consumption of limonene should not exceed 1 gram per kg (related to body weight). It is nearly impossible for a cannabis user to obtain this high amount of limonene from the natural plant so this is the only cause for concern if the limonene is sourced through a pharmaceutical supplement.
The Potential Benefits
Rodent studies found that limonene significantly reduced anxiety in the animal test subjects. In this study, the limonene was orally ingested while in a separate rodent study, the limonene was inhaled in a vapor form.
Additionally, another study examined how limonene affects the central nervous system in mice and how limonene can also be used to effectively treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, a common symptom of anxiety.
Curiously, the studies revealed that the results were not conclusive, as signs of dependency on particular strains or tests were revealed in the conclusions. This indicates that there is a definite potential for reducing anxiety, however, more research and clinical studies are needed.
Limonene’s Anti-Depressive Qualities
Human clinical trials on this subject are limited however the studies that have been performed show great potential. A study that involved twelve patients diagnosed with depression showed that limonene could lead to a breakthrough in the treatment of depression.
9 out the 12 hospitalized patients experienced a reduced need for pharmaceutical medication, had balanced hormone levels as well as saw an improvement in the immune system.
When limonene is absorbed, higher levels of dopamine and serotonin are produced. How the increase in chemicals is attained is still being researched. For now, there is research that suggests that limonene causes higher levels of dopamine and serotonin which assists in the management of OCD, anxiety, depression and other mental disorders.
Which Strains are High in Limonene?
Now that the learning process is somewhat over, let us see which strains can get you high on limonene. The main question that most consumers ask is this: “Indica or Sativa?”
While there is no official rule, limonene is more abundant in sativa strains than their Indica counterparts. However, there are some strains that are hybrid or Indica that have high levels of limonene as well.
For this reason, it is recommended that the focus shifts away from the infamous “Indica or Sativa?” question towards a more wholesome perspective; examine the complete terpene profiles themselves.
Additionally, it is important to note that not all strains can be neatly packaged into specific limits and percentages. It is common for terpene and cannabinoid percentage to vary across the same strains. The variability within a strain is due to a variety of factors, including cultivation and the complete terpene profile of a strain.
How to Locate Limonene Strains
When you buy cannabis online, you can request to view the full terpene profile of the particular strain that the company is selling. This is the best and surest way to find out your strain’s terpene profile. Although it is still rather uncommon for companies to readily display this information, it is possible to obtain it from some companies if you request for third-party lab testing.
Smelling a Limonene Dominant Strain
Unfortunately, just smelling a strain will not reveal the strain’s terpene levels. While it is possible for limonene dominant strains to have a potent citrus aroma, it is not a prerequisite. Rather, the aroma of a strain is due to the complete terpene profile and not just one dominant terpene.
Strains Commonly High in Limonene
There are, however, a few strains that have frequently been tested for high limonene levels. Look out for these strains when you buy cannabis online to help treat depression, anxiety, or are simply looking for a dopamine and serotine boost:
- Hindu Kush
- Dirty Girl
- Lemon G
- Cookies and Cream
- Emerald Jack
- Blog OG
- GG4
- Liberty Haze
Feel free to ask the friendly staff here at PotValet for your favorite high limonene strains today!
