The current revolutionary changes in society’s acceptance of medical cannabis have opened the door for people to use cannabis-based alternatives to pharmaceuticals. One area where cannabis has the potential to make a huge impact is mental health – starting with terpenes that help treat anxiety.
Terpenes, also known as terps, are the organic compounds that are responsible for each strain’s aroma and flavors. Additionally, terpenes help guide the medicinal benefits and effects that each individual cannabis strain has to uniquely offer. There are over 150 distinctive terpenes found in cannabis, and each strain contains different types and varying amounts.
If you’re looking for strains that specifically help treat anxiety, it’s worth it to take a look at what terpenes it contains. A great place to start are terpenes that have been researched for their potential anti-anxiety benefits. These include limonene, myrcene, and caryophyllene. Continue reading to learn more about all three of these compounds.
Cannabis Terpenes That May Help Reduce Anxiety
Limonene
Limonene has been shown to be one of the terpenes in weed that helps reduce anxiety. In 2013, a study in the Pharmacology Chemistry and Behavior publication showed findings on the anti-anxiety potential of limonene when used in aromatherapy. Additionally, a study published a year later in Rejuvenation Research explored the terpene’s ability to reduce stress.
Limonene is one of the most abundant terpenes. The terpene has a zesty, citrus-like smell. Some common strains that are dominant in limonene include OG Kush, Sour Diesel, and Jack Herer.
Photo by Diego Pontes from Pexels
Myrcene
Myrcene is equally as abundant in cannabis as limonene. In 2011, a research paper published in the British Journal of Pharmacology investigated the potential anti-anxiety benefits of a combination of myrcene, limonene, and pinene. Myrcene may be a great choice for anxiety treatment due to its therapeutic properties.
Furthermore, myrcene gives off an earthy, musky aroma that resembles the smell of cloves. Strains with myrcene tend to have indica-dominant effects, such as potentially relaxing mind and body feelings. Some popular strains that contain high levels of mycrene are Grape Ape, Granddaddy Purple, OG Kush, and Blue Dream.
Caryophyllene
Also known as b-caryophyllene, this is one of the most popular terpenes that helps treat anxiety.
Caryophyllene interacts with CB2 receptors in the brain. These receptors are responsible for the non-psychoactive benefits of THC. In 2020, a study was published in the Natural Product Communications journal exploring and supporting the anti-anxiety effects of caryophyllene.
Furthermore, caryophyllene gives off a peppery, warm aroma that smells like black pepper, cinnamon, and diesel. Some strains that contain caryophyllene include Girl Scout Cookies, Bubba Kush, Chemdawg, and also Sour Diesel.
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