| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | D-limonene, (+)-limonene |
| Formula | C₁₀H₁₆ |
| Molar Mass | 136.238 g/mol |
| Type | Monoterpene |
| Boiling Point | 176°C (349°F) |
Limonene is one of the most common terpenes found in nature and the second most abundant terpene in cannabis . It’s responsible for the bright, citrusy aroma found in lemons, oranges, and many uplifting cannabis strains.
Aroma Profile
Limonene produces a distinctive citrus scent:
- Lemon
- Orange
- Grapefruit
- Tangerine
- Fresh and zesty
The aroma is often described as bright, clean, and energizing.
Natural Sources
Limonene is abundant in citrus fruits and many other plants:
- Citrus peels - Lemons, oranges, limes, grapefruits
- Cannabis - Many sativa-dominant strains
- Juniper - Contributes to gin’s flavor
- Rosemary - Part of its aromatic profile
- Peppermint - Adds to its fresh scent
- Dill - Herbal applications
Potential Benefits
Research suggests limonene may have several therapeutic properties:
- Mood elevation - May reduce stress and anxiety
- Anti-inflammatory - Shown to reduce inflammation markers
- Antioxidant - Protects cells from oxidative stress
- Digestive aid - Used traditionally for heartburn and gastric reflux
- Antibacterial - Activity against certain bacteria
- Antifungal - May inhibit fungal growth
Limonene in Cannabis
Strains high in limonene typically produce uplifting, energetic effects. Some strains known for elevated limonene content include:
- Super Lemon Haze
- Durban Poison
- Jack Herer
- Lemon Skunk
- Tangie
- Wedding Cake
Effects Profile
Cannabis strains high in limonene are often associated with:
- Elevated mood
- Stress relief
- Mental clarity
- Energetic feelings
- Creative inspiration
The Entourage Effect
Limonene works synergistically with other terpenes and cannabinoids . When combined with THC or CBD , it may enhance mood-elevating and anti-anxiety effects. This synergy is part of what researchers call the “entourage effect.”
Industrial Uses
Beyond cannabis, limonene has many commercial applications:
- Cleaning products - Natural solvent and degreaser
- Food flavoring - Citrus flavoring agent
- Fragrances - Perfumes and cosmetics
- Aromatherapy - Essential oil applications
- Pesticides - Natural insect repellent
Isomers
Limonene exists in two mirror-image forms:
| Isomer | Also Called | Aroma |
|---|---|---|
| D-limonene | (+)-limonene | Orange, citrus |
| L-limonene | (-)-limonene | Piney, turpentine |
The D-limonene form is what gives citrus fruits and most cannabis strains their characteristic orange/lemon scent.