One of the best things about trying a new strain is getting that first whiff of its unique aroma. For a while, many weed consumers chose their favourite strain based upon this scent or taste alone. But as experts gather more information on how the individual effects of cannabis strains are produced, there’s more that meets the nose than just a scent.
Terpenes are an essential part of the cannabis plant not only for the delicious flavours they provide but the effects they also deliver. Since an increasing number of consumers are using cannabis specifically for pain relief, knowing the terpenes that help the most are incredibly useful. So, here we’ve compiled our in-depth guide to the top terpenes for pain relief and the strains that contain the most.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes, by definition, are compounds that plants and insects produce as a way of protection. The strong scents that terpenes emit are said to fend off herbivores from plants and to attract predators and parasites of herbivores. Cannabis, like any other plant, contains a plethora of terpenes. In fact, up to 100 different types of terpenes have been discovered from cannabis plants, alone. They’re found in the crystal-like trichomes seen on buds, just like cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
Alone, terpenes have their own effects but when combined with cannabinoids they create what’s known as the ‘entourage effect’. Research shows that altogether, the unique compounds amplify one another’s effects. This is important to know when purchasing cannabis goods like concentrates, oils, or vape pens as some processes or products retain natural terpenes more than others. So, even though a distillate contains 99% THC, without any terpenes you might not feel as strong of effects. Live resin products are popular for the entourage as they contain the full-spectrum of plant matter for full-bodied effects.
Best Terpenes for Pain Relief
To narrow down your search for cannabis goods to relieve pain even further, we’ve put together a list of the best terpenes noted for relief. Here’s everything that you need to know about each. Including the temperatures they vaporize at, for when you’re vaping or dabbing concentrates containing natural terps.
Caryophyllene
- Smells of cloves, peppery and earthy
- Vaporizes at 266ºF (130ºC)
There’s direct evidence from a scientific study on mice, that caryophyllene can effectively reduce pain. Even more, the terpene has shown the ability to increase the strength of low doses of morphine, too. In addition to being able to reduce feelings of pain, caryophyllene is also highly anti-inflammatory. This helps reduce pain even further, especially in conditions that arise from inflammation like colitis, arthritis, etc.
Myrcene
- Smells of musk, cloves and herbal
- Vaporizes at 332ºF (167ºC)
Myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis plants, and is dominant in about 40% of strains available on the market today. The terpene has a plethora of benefits including being an antioxidant. For pain, it’s said to reduce inflammation and has shown success for this in early animal studies. Other rodent studies suggest that myrcene can be a successful muscle relaxant.
Limonene
- Smells of citrus, and lemon
- Vaporizes at 348ºF (176ºC)
Limonene is what makes so many of the citrus scented strains smell as refreshing as they do. Little research has been conducted on the specific terpene, but from self-exploration and self-medicating users can attest to Limonene’s relieving tendencies. The terpene is anti-inflammatory which adds to its success for relieving pain.
Linalool
- Smells of floral, and earthy
- Vaporizes at 388ºF (198ºC)
Linalool is also found in lavender, so you can guess that it helps in a sedating or relaxing nature. Which is helpful for pain, along with anxiety and depression. Early studies show that Linalool helps relieve pain by increasing adenosine levels. Another study showed that the terpene could be anesthetic like in effects due to reducing excitability of cells in the spinal cord.
Strains with Top Terpenes for Pain
Instead of searching by sniff, we’ve done the work for you. Here’s the top 10 strains for pain, that contain the top terpenes for relief.
Zkittlez
Zkittlez or any cross of the strain is high in linalool for relaxing and calming effects. To add to its relieving properties, the strain contains higher levels of CBD and CBG, than most.
Super Lemon Haze
Super Lemon Haze bursts with lemony citrus scents, and is equally as powerful in relieving effects. The strain is high in THC, making it extra potent for additional relief, too.
Strawberry Banana
Strawberry Banana is another strain high in limonene, although it smells more fruity than citrusy. The strain is well-known for a calming body buzz that provides its relief.
Bubba Kush
Bubba Kush and strains containing lineage of the genetics are high in caryophyllene for pain relieving effects. Its high levels of THC add to the comfort it can deliver.
Gorilla Glue
Known for ‘glueing’ you to your spot, Gorilla Glue #4 is a classic strain for relieving qualities. The genetics are high in the terpene caryophyllene, limonene and myrcene, too.
Master Kush
A Snoop Dogg favourite, Master Kush is an Indica dominant strain that can knock out pain with its body numbing effects. Caryophyllene is one of the strain’s primary terpenes.
OG Kush
OG Kush is not only potent in THC, but high in myrcene, limonene and caryophyllene. Three of the top terpenes for pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.
Pink Kush
Another ‘kush’ strain high in myrcene for pain relief, is Pink Kush. The strain also contains caryophyllene, linalool, and limonene, plus moderate levels of CBD, too.
Sniff Your Way to Relief
With the information you’ve gained today, you can now ‘sniff’ your way to relief. By finding cannabis products or strains prevalent in the terpenes caryophyllene, myrcene, limonene and linalool you can naturally heal better than ever before. If you’re seeking terpene rich products, or new genetics to experiment with, look no further than MMJDirect.co and our highest-quality collection of goods.