Linalool is an important terpene found in the cannabis plant. It is thought to provide anti-microbial properties which reduces risk of bacterial growth in the leaves and buds.
Linalool also produces a lavender aroma with spicy, flowery notes and a hint of mint.
Linalool is a natural plant terpene which is found widely in nature, not just cannabis. Linalool is also popular additive to cosmetics, air fresheners etc where it adds a refreshing, natural scent.
Other names for Linalool include β-linalool, linalyl alcohol, linaloyl oxide, allo-ocimenol, and 3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadien-3-ol.
Over 200 different species of plants produce linalool, not just cannabis. Linalool is found in the families of mint and related herbs. It’s is also found in laurels, cinnamon and rosewood as well as citrus fruits, birch trees and fungi.
The attractive aroma of Linalool is one of the reasons it is such a popular and recognisable smell. The floral lavender smell is universally popular, with hints of spice and mint. It’s no surprise that this terpene has many industrial uses.
You can find Linalool in every day cosmetic items, shampoo, conditioners, creams and moisturisers. It’s also in domestic items such as cleaning liquids, washing powders and fabric conditioners where it leaves a fresh lavender aroma.
There is more research going into terpenes and cannabinoids than ever before. Many terpenes are thought to have effects on mood as well as our physical well being. Taken together with cannabinoids, the terpenes may well influence the type of high we experience.
One thing cannabis lovers have known for a long time is the importance of correctly drying and curing their cannabis. The presence of some tasty terpenes really does make a big difference to the final experience of vaping/smoking your prized buds.
Some initial studies have already given scientific insight into the effects of Linalool.
Scientists have conducted studies which may suggest linalool has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. Chronic inflammation is thought to be one of the main factors behind the onset of some diseases, possibly including MS and cancer.
CBD is thought to offer important anti-inflammatory effects. Future research is expected to further investigate this.
Again these studies have only taken place on rodents. Normally the amount of white cells (Lymphocytes) decreases over time in response to stress. However, when exposed to Linalool this effect decreased, suggesting that Linalool may toughen up the immune system during periods of stress.
Linalool’s antibacterial effect may help prevent bacterial disease affecting the cannabis plant. It may also be useful to humans.
Although studies have only been conducted in rodents so far, the results are very interesting. The study showed the results when rodents were exposed to linalool vapour. Reduced levels of stress and anxiety were noted under pressure. Perhaps that may translate into a calming effect for the human cannabis user.
This study investigated the effects of Linalool in regard to the ability to prevent seizures. Linalool blocks some of the receptors which are the immune system’s main excitatory neurotransmitters.
This could infer that linalool may have a role to play as an anti-convulsant, perhaps offering a future role in epilepsy research.
The analgesic, or pain killing effects of linalool has been found to help reduce pain in certain situations. This may help with the pain killing benefits of cannabis.
Linalool is often one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis. If ever you enjoy a cannabis variety with a floral aroma which reminds you of lavender then you are probably smoking a variety rich in Linalool. It’s a terpene which enhances the taste and enjoyment of any cannabis strain.
If the research is correct, Linalool also offers some interesting properties which may well affect the type of high you feel as well as the effects you feel. For example, a linalool-rich strain may feel a little better and dissolving anxiety and reducing stress/pain.