A lot of attention is rightfully paid to the amounts and types of cannabinoids contained in hemp flower cultivars. But there is an equally important compound that also resides in our hemp flower cultivars. We are talking about terpenes, those amazing compounds that influence moods and can even trigger noticeable physical effects when consumed. In this issue of our Terpene Talks, Limonene takes the spotlight.
Terpenes are just as crucial to overall effects as the cannabinoids found in hemp plants. This is the reason why our independent lab reports show the presence and quantities of the terpenes found in our hemp flower cultivars. This information, in combination with the cannabinoid potencies our lab reports disclose, helps us (and you!) to better identify the potential benefits to be realized when consuming different hemp flower cultivars.
Terpene Talks: Limonene Overview
Limonene is classified as a cyclic monoterpene (containing 10 carbon atoms derived from two isoprene units). Monoterpenes have simpler structures than their counterpart, sesquiterpenes.
Generally, monoterpenes display brighter colors while releasing gentler fragrances. Monoterpenes also have a lower boiling point and are more soluble and volatile than sesquiterpenes.
In comparison to sesquiterpenes, monoterpenes usually oxidize (or break down) faster, which means they have a short shelf life. (But as these compounds are plant-based, shelf life is still measured in months as compared to days for compounds found in animal and dairy products.)
Limonene in Foods and Herbs
It should not surprise one to learn that limonene is the primary essential oil found in citrus fruit peels. Considering its name, it is logical to assume that the terpene limonene can be found in most citrus fruits. And your logic would indeed serve you well, as the main fragrances emitted from limonene are:
- Grapefruit
- Lemon
- Orange
- Tangerine
That doesn’t mean, however, that citrus fruits are the only food where you will find limonene. Check out the variety of other foods and herbs containing limonene:
- Anise
- Cannabis
- Chamomile
- Fennel
- Ginger
- Hemp
- Hops
- Red Pepper
- Rosemary
- St. John’s Wort
- Turmeric
- Valerian
Potential Limonene Effects
While flavors and fragrances are important, limonene does more than please your taste buds and olfactory senses. It can actually affect moods and alter physical conditions but do keep in mind that, as is common with most natural remedies, individual results often vary greatly.
Over time, more studies will certainly reveal additional wellness benefits associated with limonene. Meanwhile, initial research has revealed a lot of promising benefits. This research, combined with anecdotal claims, indicates that limonene may aid in the following conditions and situations:
- Antioxidant – by battling free radicals, antioxidants are true heroes of our immune and wellness system; limonene is a reputable carrier of such properties
- Ease Inflammation – those experiencing swelling or inflammation, either from an injury or as a reaction, may find limonene helps ease discomfort and reduce swelling
- Energizing – sometimes during a busy or hectic day, a refreshing burst of energy from limonene is all that’s needed to get back on track
- Mood Stabilizer – both anxiety and sadness can be lifted or eased with limonene, making it a natural mood stabilizer
Keep in mind that limonene is just one of a variety of terpenes that appear in various Fern Valley Farms strains. In all likelihood, you will enjoy other beneficial effects from other terpenes included in any given cultivar or other hemp products.
Fern Valley Farms Products with Limonene
Interested in learning how limonene might personally benefit you?
Since we strive to list the terpenes included in any product with terpenes, your best method for identifying products with limonene is to use our search feature. Just click the magnifying glass icon (on the top right of any page) and type in “limonene” to get a fast and accurate list of pages that include the word “limonene” somewhere on its page. Included in the search results are scads of products, so click those most interesting to you and see how much limonene appears in those products.
For an example of our search engine results, click the search term below (search results open in a new tab):
Limonene
As you will see in the search results, terpenes show up in many products besides our hemp plants (where they naturally appear). You can also find those aromatic and influential compounds in other products: our concentrates, tinctures, capsules, and lotions are great places to start.
Interested in learning more about terpenes? Our collection of Terpene Talks is the perfect springboard for expanding your knowledge!
