Linalool terpene

As you remember, terpenes are compounds found in various plants, including cannabis, that are responsible for providing their smell as well as effects in case of their consumption. 

Manufacturers and consumers alike have been paying more and more attention to the terpene profile of a strain or concentrate, and for good reasons. Cannabinoid content – percentage of CBD, THC, CBN, etc. – is important but it is also the terpenes that make a flower lean towards what is often referred to as indica or sativa. Although the meaning of these terms is a bit altered and simplified, sativa usually refers to cannabis strains with energizing effects, and indica to the sedative ones. And recent studies also show that cannabinoids and terpenes work together to provide the so-called entourage effect. 

linalool terpene

For decades it was believed that terpenes did not play an essential role in Cannabis other than determining a particular aroma. We now know that terpenes have a significant impact on both the human body and the brain and modulate brain cells’ behavior. 

Terpenes exist throughout the plant world and can promote several health benefits, such as boosting your energy or helping you sleep. Linalool is one of the more than two hundred terpenes identified in Cannabis and is commonly used by patients looking to balance their Endocannabinoid System. In this article, we will dive into the details of linalool and how this terpene might help improve your health and wellbeing. 

The focus of today’s article is the Linalool terpene.

What is Linalool Terpene? 

Linalool is an extremely popular terpene that has been produced in both natural and synthetic form for over a century. Linalool has a wide specter of application, especially in cosmetics. Its name comes from linaloe, which is a type of wood. Linalool is found abundantly in nature, and it is widely used for many purposes. It is known for its calming effect and ability to bring elevated stress levels to almost normal conditions. It is frequently used in perfumes, cosmetics, soap, and essential oils therapy. Several flavored beverage brands even use linalool as an all-natural flavoring.   

Linalool Smell and Flavor

The first thing that linalool’s aroma brings to mind is lavender. It might be hard to identify it in cannabis due to the presence of numerous other terpenes, often in larger quantities but it makes a special contribution to the combined result. Typically, linalool is responsible for the floral notes in the smell of a cannabis strain.

What is Linalool Found in?

Linalool is produced by 200 plant species, and If we take spices alone, over 60 of them contain linalool. 

It is most common and abundant in lavender, but substantial amounts are also found in mint, cinnamon, rosewoods, and citrus fruits. Linalool is also present in birch trees and even certain fungi.

Where is Linalool Used?

Linalool’s main use is in cosmetics, but that is not all. It is also used in soaps, detergents, household products, pesticidal pet products, as well as being a very common flavoring in beverages and foods. 

Since its discovery, linalool has been in high demand due to its extremely pleasant smell that could not be provided by anything else. The natural production could not meet the demand and in the late 19th century its synthetic form started being produced. According to a study, consumption in 1988 of synthetic linalool in the flavor and fragrance industry was estimated at 8 million lbs. worldwide; North American consumption was estimated at 2.2 million lbs. Linalool can be found in 3 out of 4 perfumed hygiene products.

Linalool Effects and Benefits

While there is mixed scientific evidence supporting linalool’s effects in cannabis, it is presumed to add sedative and relaxing effects to the user. 

Linalool has shown potential in treating inflammations by inhibiting them. Linalool could also be used for neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.
It has also been shown to help fight the spread of cancer by arresting cell division through well known cancer causing pathways.

 Linalool has demonstrated sedative and stress relieving properties and may be used to combat chronic stress, depression, and anxiety. 

That same study revealed that the interaction of the terpenes linalool, limonene, and the cannabinoid cannabigerol (CBG) helps treat MRSA (methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus), the most treatment-resistant form of staph infection.  

CBD, limonene, and linalool interaction can fight acne and treat other skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. The combination of THC, cannabinol (CBN), and linalool can enhance sedative effects. 

While linalool can provide a wide range of benefits for patients, it is most notably recognized for its efficacy in relaxation and anxiety control. In fact, it can be used as a sedative, aid for sleeping disorders, or treat Alzheimer’s Disease. When administered by a medical professional or experienced caretaker, linalool’s sedative effects are significant enough to serve as a tranquilizer and help patients suffering from conditions like psychosis. 

In addition, linalool also serves as an antidepressant, analgesic, anticonvulsant, and anti-inflammatory, making it ideal for conditions ranging from clinical depression, anxiety, arthritis, Dravet Syndrome, dystonia, epilepsy, and fibromyalgia. Its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also gaining popularity among endurance athletes for enhancing performance and recovery times. 

linalool terpene

Linalool in a nutshell 

As we unleashed more knowledge about cannabinoids and terpenes, we realized that we haven’t fully understood its potential for patients. Linalool is considered a minor terpene, but its benefits can be endless.  

Linalool is a powerful terpene due to its effect on the serotonin receptor. It helps treats conditions such as anxiety and depression and can help to combat insomnia. Its medicinal properties could also help treat several types of cancer.  


As always, if you are interested in adding products containing terpenes for medicinal purposes, we recommend that you consult with your primary physician. 

What does the research say? 

Clinic research identifies linalool as helpful in treating illnesses such as lung damage caused by tobacco, Alzheimer’s, and the reduction of opioid abuse in postoperative patients. 

A 2016 study suggested that linalool reverses the histopathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s and can help restore cognitive and emotional functions via its anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, linalool may be an Alzheimer’s prevention tool for preclinical studies. 

A study published in 2015 found linalool’s anti-inflammatory effects beneficial to repair the lung damage caused by tobacco via its anti-inflammatory properties. Also, highlighting anti-cancer properties.  

A 2007 study published in the journal Obesity Therapy concluded that lavender aromatherapy could reduce opioids in the immediate postoperative period. 

1 thought on “Linalool terpene”

  1. Linalool functions as a fragrance ingredient. It is used in cometics such as aftershaves,cleansing products, hair care products, lipsticks, moisturizers, perfumes and colognes, shampoos and etc. Linalool is safe in low concentrations but can be highly sensitizing to sensitive or irritated skin. Pure tea tree oil, paper mint may contain linalool.

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