There is no doubt about it, the holidays can be stressful. When turning to cannabis to find relief, we recommend choosing strains high in terpenes that can aid you in your journey to a stress-free holiday season!
Understanding Terpenes
One of the most common questions we receive at Realm of Caring is, “What is a Terpene?” Terpenes play an important part in cannabinoid therapy as they may enhance the therapeutic effects of cannabis. To put it simply, terpenes are compounds produced by plants such as fruits, trees, herbs, and a variety of other plant species that are responsible for determining their distinct scents. The therapeutic properties of terpenes combined with the therapeutic properties of cannabinoids may enhance the overall therapeutic effect that the cannabis plant can offer.
Best Terpenes for Anxiety and Stress Relief
While there are hundreds of terpenes found in nature, they all have different effects on the human body. This means, some are better than others when looking to relieve certain symptoms. Studies have found the following terpenes to be helpful with anxiety and stress:
Linalool
Linalool is a popular terpene known for its floral scents. Commonly found in lavender, the natural anxiolytic aromas have been known to calm aggressive behaviors and alleviate symptoms of anxiety or stress with its soothing effects. Such sedative effects of Linalool have demonstrated in animal and human studies the ability to help calm an overactive nervous system. Strains that are high in Linalool include Granddaddy Purple, Do Si Dos, Lavender, and Kosher Kush, and are often recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Limonene
Commonly found in citrus fruits, as the name might suggest, Limonene can also be found in cannabis strains, especially those with a strong citrus scent. This is one of the most common terpenes, second to Myrcene. While known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties, Limonene has also been shown to reduce stress levels, producing a feeling of well-being. Experiments in mice have confirmed Limonene is strongly anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and boosts serotonin levels— similar to what some antidepressants do. When looking for cannabis strains to bring you a stress-free holiday season, try one of the following Limonene-dominant options: Durban Poison, Jack Herer, Lemon Diesel, Sour Diesel, and Super Lemon Haze.
Alpha-pinene
You know the smell you associate with pine trees and other types of coniferous plants? That can be credited to Alpha-pinene! Studies show Alpha-pinene may be helpful in reducing anxiety. While pinene is rarely the primary terpene in a cannabis strain, it is often the second most prominent. Cannabis strains high in Alpha-pinene include Blue Dream, Pineapple Express, Grape Ape, and White Fire OG.
Beta-caryophyllene
Molecules that target the CB2 receptor of our endocannabinoid system can help to treat symptoms of anxiety and depression. Beta-caryophyllene is one of those terpene molecules! Found in numerous plants in nature including black pepper, rosemary, hops, and cannabis, this terpene also acts as a cannabinoid. Because it only interacts with the CB2 receptor (and not CB1) it does not produce a psychoactive effect. When shopping for strains high in Beta-caryophyllene this holiday season, keep your eye out for OG Kush, White Widow, Sherbert, and Chemdawg.
A Very Happy Holiday Season
More and more people are turning to cannabis to find relief from common symptoms. Whether you are seeking a stress-free holiday season for yourself, or looking for that perfect gift for a cannabis advocate in your life, terpenes offer a great opportunity for symptom-based decision making.
As always, consulting with a medical professional is recommended. There is a lot to consider when starting cannabinoid therapy and a Realm of Caring care specialist is here to help with your questions. Contact us today by calling (719) 347-5400 or by emailing info@realmofcaring.org.
