Herbistry420
OH

Linalool

Terpene
Terpene

Linalool

A floral terpene found in lavender and cannabis, associated with calming, anti-anxiety, and sleep-promoting effects.

Linalool is a floral terpene best known as the dominant aromatic compound in lavender. In cannabis, it contributes a sweet, floral, slightly spicy scent and is associated with calming, anti-anxiety, and sleep-promoting effects. Linalool is also found in birch bark, mint, and over 200 species of plants.

Effects and Research

Linalool has been used in traditional aromatherapy for centuries to promote relaxation. Modern research supports many of these traditional uses. Studies have shown that linalool inhalation can reduce anxiety-like behaviors in animal models, and it has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anticonvulsant properties in preclinical research. A study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found linalool to be one of the most potent anti-inflammatory terpenes tested from plant sources.

Strains and Applications

Cannabis strains high in linalool include Lavender, Amnesia Haze, LA Confidential, Granddaddy Purple, and Do-Si-Dos. Consumers seeking relaxation, stress relief, or help with sleep often gravitate toward linalool-rich strains. The terpene is particularly valued in evening strains and in products designed for anxiety management. When combined with myrcene and CBD, linalool can contribute to a deeply calming cannabis experience.

Related Terms

TerpeneEntourage EffectAlpha-TerpineneBeta-PineneBisabololBorneolCampheneCareneCaryophylleneEucalyptolFarneseneFencholGeraniolGuaiolHumuleneLimoneneMyrceneNerolidolOcimenePhellandrenePhytolPineneSabineneTerpineneTerpinoleneValencene

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Linalool smell and taste like?
Linalool has a floral, lavender-like aroma with subtle spicy notes. It is the same terpene that gives lavender its calming scent and is also found in mint, cinnamon, and birch.
What effects is Linalool associated with?
Linalool is associated with calming, relaxing effects. It has been studied for potential anxiolytic, sedative, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its presence in lavender has long been linked to stress relief in aromatherapy traditions.
Which cannabis strains are high in Linalool?
Strains high in linalool typically feature its signature aroma prominently. Lab-tested terpene profiles on product labels can help you identify strains with elevated linalool content. Ask your budtender or check strain databases for terpene-specific recommendations.
Is Linalool found in other plants besides cannabis?
Yes, linalool is found in lavender, mint, cinnamon, coriander, and birch. It is one of the most widely used aromatic compounds in perfumes, soaps, and aromatherapy products worldwide.
Does Linalool contribute to the entourage effect?
Yes, linalool is believed to contribute to the entourage effect, where terpenes and cannabinoids work together to shape the overall cannabis experience. Research suggests terpenes like linalool may modulate how cannabinoids interact with receptors, potentially influencing the intensity and character of effects.
Cannabis GlossaryNext: Myrcene