Linalool Terpene - Effects, Benefits, & Uses

Linalool is an aromatic terpene found in common plants like lavender and basil, as well as some cannabis strains. More than 200 plants produce linalool. Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give plants—including the cannabis plant—their unique flavor, aroma, and color. The medical benefits of terpenes have been known for thousands of years, with essential oils used to treat various ailments from insomnia to chronic pain. 

The linalool terpene’s effects could offer a host of health benefits thanks to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Many MMJ patients choose linalool-rich cannabis strains primarily because of their medicinal properties. However, linalool’s unmistakable scent—a citrusy, spicy, and floral aroma—is another factor that drives recreational consumers and medicinal patients toward strains containing this aromatic terpene.

Linalool's Therapeutic Benefits

Linalool is associated with the following therapeutic effects:

Sedative Properties

There is extensive evidence of people using lavender—a principal source of linalool—to improve sleep and reduce anxiety or stress throughout history. Modern studies have confirmed this common knowledge. For example, one study noted linalool's sedative effects on the central nervous system. 

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Various studies indicate linalool's ability to inhibit inflammation and its therapeutic potential to treat inflammatory diseases. This includes:

• Alzheimer's Disease: Linalool's anti-inflammatory effects restore emotional and cognitive functions and reverse the histopathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's.

• Osteoarthritis: Linalool can potentially be used as a treatment for osteoarthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Lavender essential oil is also known to be antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. These effects may be partly due to the presence of linalool.

Qualifying Conditions Linalool Might Help With

Patients with the following AZ qualifying conditions may benefit from the medical benefits of linalool-rich strains:

Severe and Chronic Pain

Various studies have demonstrated linalool's potential for providing pain relief. For example, a 2010 study by the American Pain Society reported that linalool is able to cause "marked and long-lasting" relief of chronic pain in mice (page 1226 of the PDF). In this study, it was noted that linalool's analgesic properties could relieve both inflammatory and neuropathic pain.

When searching for the best weed strains for pain relief, strains high in linalool could be a good starting point.

Seizures

Several studies report linalool's potential for treating seizures caused by epilepsy or other conditions. Linalool was shown to prevent the onset of seizures while another study showed the terpene's role in reducing the number of convulsions during seizures in an animal model. Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario’s essential oil page lists lavender essential oil as an anticonvulsant.

Severe Nausea

Strains high in linalool have the potential to relieve complications linked with severe nausea caused by chemotherapy and other medical treatments and health conditions. While nausea itself is a distressing side effect of some treatments, rapid weight loss caused by nausea and appetite loss must also be addressed.

A 2023 study showed that linalool significantly increased food intake and body weight in rats. Choosing strains rich in linalool could therefore help with appetite stimulation. 

The best strains for appetite stimulation—including strains rich in linalool like Pineapple Kush and Haze Berry—could help counter weight loss as a result of cancer treatments and HIV/AIDS.

Linalool as a Mood-Enhancer

Suffering from a medical condition can create worry and stress. Linalool-rich strains might help with these feelings as linalool is often used in aromatherapy for depression, anxiety, and stress.

Linalool's Effects on the Body and Brain

Most linalool-rich strains impart effects associated with indica-dominant genetics, which include mental and physical relaxation, sleepiness, and a strong case of the munchies.   

Strains that Are High in Linalool

The following strains list linalool as their primary, secondary, or tertiary terpene:

Mazar I Sharif

Indica, 13-20% THC/0% CBD

Mazar Sharif—or Mazar—is a linalool-rich indica strain well-known for its deep relaxing, sedative effects. Expect blissful sleepiness, mind-warping cerebral effects, and the munchies. Mazar is renowned for its bold aroma reminiscent of tobacco, spice, and wood with a hint of incense. You might get notes of sage or pine too that give this wonderful strain a deep complexity.

The high level of linalool in this strain gives it its floral, pungent aroma that might remind you of lavender fields. This, mixed with the spicy punch of black pepper offered by its caryophyllene content makes this strain a must-try for anyone seeking deep physical relaxation and a beautifully rich taste and aroma profile.

Wedding Mints #13

Indica-Dominant Hybrid, 20% THC/ 0% CBD

Enjoy blissful relaxation as you feel the effects of this indica-dominant strain wash over you. Some people experience uplifting effects accompanied by a warm embrace of pure calm. This could be a great option for patients suffering from chronic fatigue, insomnia, stress, anxiety, or depression.

This bud is also a great option for patients who love fruity strains as they'll enjoy its sweet, minty flavor with vanilla undertones and a distinct flavor of citrus fruits. Its aroma is sour, citrusy, and fruity with a kick of mint—a match made in heaven.

The Original Z

Indica, 15-25%THC, 1% CBG

The Original Z (previously known as Zkittlez) is a calming, relaxing strain that could help you unwind and leave your stresses behind as you let the strain's euphoric effects take over. Patients may experience blissful bodily relaxation with mental stimulation that lends itself to creative endeavors.

The Original Z has a sweet, tropical, exotic fruity taste—just like the sweets. Expect the munchies, a deep sleep, and a fruity flavor and aroma reminiscent of a tropical beach.

Other Strains Containing Linalool

The following strains provide additional options for exploring the effects of linalool:

• Kosher Kush

• Casino Kush

• Do-Si-Dos

Choose Linalool Strains for Relaxation and Appetite

Finding the perfect strains as an MMJ patient may be a question of trial and error. However, knowing the terpene content of your cannabis and how each strain's unique qualities could help improve your condition is a great start.

Linalool-rich strains may be particularly effective in treating conditions that cause pain, inflammation, or appetite loss. They can also be a go-to option for when you need a mental boost or simply want a floral flavor and aroma.