Linalool Terpene: Strains, Effects, and Benefits

As you probably 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. 

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 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. 

Is Linalool Toxic? Is Linalool Safe to Use?

The study we had previously mentioned notes that allergic reactions have been next to none when using a 5 to 20% solution, but may cause irritations when it is over 32%.  

The issue that raises the most concerns is that linalool may become an allergen or sensitizer once oxidized (combined with oxygen). Thus, it is strongly recommended to keep your linalool containing products in a sealed container.

Strains High in Linalool

You can find considerable amounts of the terpene in the following strains, although compared to other terpenes it usually never gets higher than the 3rd or 4th spot. Linalool is responsible for calming and even sedative effects, and helps decrease anxiety.

Dark Matter OG. This stellar newest addition to our line of fine cannabis is a heavy hitting indica dominant hybrid.

Chem Dawg. A potent hybrid with a strong cerebral high. 

Zkittlez. This indica leaning strain is relaxing yet keeping you focused and alert. 

Lavender. An indica-dominant hybrid with a distinct floral and spicy aroma.

Do-Si-Dos. Another strain with indica effects that offers a blissful euphoria and complete relaxation.

Blackberry OG. Like its parent OG Kush, it has a rich terpene profile, boasting higher than usual linalool content.

In Conclusion

Cannabis is a rare source of natural linalool, a unique and exciting terpene that has shown to provide calm and decrease anxiety, as well as a number of other potential benefits. We hope you found the answers to all your questions in this article, and don’t forget to check out our latest feature in the Flower section that allows you to sort strains by prevailing terpenes.