Limonene is the second most common terpene in nature and one of the most recognizable cannabis terpenes due to its unmistakable citrus aroma. This cyclic monoterpene is the primary component of citrus peel oils, giving lemons, oranges, and grapefruits their characteristic scent. In cannabis, limonene-dominant strains are typically associated with uplifting, energizing effects.
Clinical research on limonene has shown promising results for mood regulation and anxiety reduction. A 2013 study published in Behavioural Brain Research demonstrated that limonene inhalation produced measurable anti-anxiety effects in laboratory settings. Additionally, limonene has shown potential as an anti-inflammatory and antifungal agent, and its ability to increase the absorption of other compounds through skin and mucous membranes makes it valuable in topical formulations.
For terpene formulators, limonene provides a bright, clean top note that can cut through heavier, earthier profiles. It pairs exceptionally well with pinene for an invigorating forest-citrus blend, or with linalool for a balanced, mood-enhancing combination.
Effects & Properties
Natural Sources
Entour™ Products with Limonene
Banana Kush
Blackberry Kush
Blueberry Flame™
Primary Terpene
Bubba Kush
Cali-O
Primary Terpene
Dutch Treat™
Fire OG
Primary Terpene
GSC
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the effects of limonene terpene?
What strains are high in limonene?
Is limonene safe to ingest?
Learn more
Everything You Need To Know About Limonene
Citrus’ many beneficial properties is why so many products, from beverages to household cleaners, use a pleasant citrus aroma as an additive. It’s also widely used as a flavor or scent agent in products such as beverages, candies, chewing gum, and baked goods, as well as in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and anywhere else where a refreshing and uplifting effect is needed, including – you guessed it – cannabis! And it’s all thanks to a fascinating and versatile terpene called limonene.
Limonene and the Entourage Effect: How This Terpene Works
That citrus scent in your favorite strain? It’s limonene terpene working behind the scenes and recent clinical research shows it’s doing far more than adding aroma.
Limonene side effects vs benefits: what the data shows
Most people encounter d-limonene multiple times daily without realizing it. This monoterpene appears in over 90% of fragranced household cleaning products and roughly 78% of cosmetics labeled as citrus-scented or natural. The compound exists naturally in citrus peels, where it can constitute more than 90% of essential oil content, and occurs across over 300 plant species.