There is an increasing interest in cannabinoids, and that might be hugely credited back to the CBD boom. There have been many types of research on cannabis compounds in the past. However, it is only recently that it has reached mass consciousness. The use of cannabis was once considered unacceptable, but now CBD products are becoming household names due to their therapeutic benefits. As more people are becoming aware of cannabis and cannabinoids, the interest has extended to other cannabis compounds— and even to aromatic oils called terpenes.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that exist in cannabis and many other plants. In cannabis plants, the same glands that produce cannabinoids secrete terpenes.  We often hear of essential oils and their therapeutic benefits. Well, essential oils are just a collection of terpenes from a plant. It’s what gives plants their distinct “flavors.”

The interest in cannabis-derived terpenes is gaining a lot of attention due to their therapeutic effects. Terpenes sometimes work on their own and sometimes work with other compounds (or most commonly known as the entourage effect).  One that deserves our attention is called linalool, a terpene with a floral aroma, and believed to help with relaxation (among its obvious perceived benefits).

What is linalool?

Linalool is quite common and is not specific to cannabis. Many other types of plants, such as lavender and birch, also contain this botanical terpene. Its distinct characteristic is the lavender aroma with a touch of spiciness.  The most common way to deliver linalool into the body is through inhalation of this terpene, usually via aromatic essential oils. There are no adverse effects in ingesting safe amounts of linalool as the body metabolizes this terpene quickly.

Potential Therapeutic Effects

Most of the therapeutic benefits might be due to the linalool’s effect on brain cells and receptors, which in turn control neurochemicals involved with muscle contraction and arousal.

• As a sedative or muscle relaxant — The main component of lavender essential oil is linalool. Often associated with relaxation and sleep, the use of lavender essential oil may improve the quality of sleep. A study shows that inhalation of lavender essential oil helps relax muscles and slows the heart rate to induce sleep. Recorded in classical Chinese literature depicting traditional medicine, the stems and leaves of peanuts (which contain a high concentration of linalool) may have sedative-hypnotic effects, as also seen in a recent study.

• For pain and inflammation — Linalool may have anti-inflammatory properties for dulling pain caused by injury or sickness. Research suggests that linalool may inhibit the excitability of cells in the peripheral nervous system, effectively blocking pain signals to the brain.

• As an anti-epileptic — As mention above, linalool may affect brain chemicals associated with muscle contraction. Often characterized by recurring spontaneous seizures, epilepsy can benefit from the anticonvulsant effects of linalool. It has shown to be highly potent in a study treating transcortical electroshock seizures.

• As an anti-microbial agent — A high concentration of essential oils is needed to maintain microbial purity in cosmetics and medicines. A study showed that linalool affects the antimicrobial properties of essential oils by increasing their effectivity against some types of harmful bacteria. Commonly known as the “entourage effect,” linalool, in combination with other compounds, may potentially be effective in controlling microbial growth.

• For anti-stress — Researchers found linalool as an effective anxiolytic or an anxiety-reducer. The inhalation of linalool stopped stress-induced effects on both blood cells and gene profiles.

• As a mosquito repellant —In a study with other botanical repellants, linalool showed 93% efficacy as a mosquito repellant in both indoor and outdoor settings.

• As a potential to help reduce symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease —Further studies are needed. A study showed linalool reversed most behavioral and cognitive impairments and reduced brain plaques and cellular tangles, typically associated with the disease.

Why we need more research on linalool

There are not enough studies regarding linalool, and especially those coming from cannabis. Like other terpenes, linalool can benefit from further analysis.  Whether acting as an isolated terpene or working in a full spectrum to create an entourage effect, linalool deserves our attention. Whether as a mosquito repellent or potential for reduction in Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, the therapeutic benefits of linalool merits further research.

At TruPotency.com, we continuously learn about the benefits of these cannabinoid and terpene ratios. We have an array of CBD-only and full-spectrum products that go through rigorous testing. Find the CBD products suited to your needs. If you are considering products containing linalool for their therapeutic benefits as mentioned above, please consult with a doctor or health professional. Although it is safe to consume linalool, even in significant quantities, please be aware of some side effects. Skin irritations may occur when applied directly.

Product Highlight: RE Botanicals CBD Hemp Relief Body Oil Roll On Lavender Extra Strength - 500mg The roll-on style makes this body oil easy to apply. Infused with lavender essential oils with linalool for relaxation, this extra strength full spectrum product packs many other cannabinoids and terpenes to complement the main effect from CBD. The entourage of compounds combine to be great for overall skin health and can help with muscle soreness and cramps.