What is linalool? The calming terpene found in cannabis

While much of the conversation often focuses on cannabinoids such as CBD and THC, another group of compounds plays an equally important role in shaping the character of cannabis strains—terpenes. These aromatic molecules contribute significantly to the fragrance profiles that distinguish one variety from another.

Having spent over a decade in the cannabis industry, with a particular emphasis on CBD and hemp production, I’ve observed the growing attention these compounds receive for the unique qualities they bring to the plant. One terpene that frequently stands out in my work is linalool.

Recognised for its distinct floral aroma, often compared to lavender, linalool adds to the intricate scent composition of cannabis. It works alongside cannabinoids to influence the overall profile of different strains.

In this article, I share my observations on linalool, informed by both research and practical experience in the industry, to discuss its role in cannabis and its broader applications.

Prefer watching over reading? This video covers the key points from the article:

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Key takeaways

• Linalool gives certain cannabis strains a floral, lavender-like aroma.
• It is found in over 200 plant species, including lavender and rosewood.
• Linalool shapes the scent and flavour profiles of cannabis strains.
• It is widely used in perfumes, soaps, and other products.
• Terpene content, including linalool, is measured through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

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Brief overview of terpenes in cannabis

Before diving into linalool specifically, let's first understand terpenes and their role in cannabis. Terpenes are aromatic molecules found in many plants, including cannabis.

Terpenes play a significant role in the plant’s survival by attracting pollinators and repelling predators. In cannabis, specifically, terpenes interact with other compounds found in the plant, like cannabinoids (THC and CBD), to create a synergistic effect known as the entourage effect.

The entourage effect suggests that using whole-plant formulations rather than isolating individual components results in different outcomes. There are over 200 different terpenes found within various strains of cannabis, each with its own unique flavour profile and characteristics.

What are terpenes?

What is linalool?

Linalool is a terpene, a class of organic compounds that are commonly found in plants, including cannabis. It is responsible for the distinct aroma profile of certain strains of cannabis.

Linalool has a chemical structure that is composed of two six-carbon rings known as benzene rings connected by an oxygen atom. This gives it a characteristic floral scent that is often described as lavender-like.

In addition to its use in plants, linalool has various applications in industries like cosmetics and perfumes. It can also be synthesised artificially for use in products like soaps and detergents.

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The importance of linalool

Linalool is one such terpene present within many strains of cannabis; it’s known for its floral scent reminiscent of lavender flowers. The compound can be found not only within certain strains but also commonly used throughout various products like cosmetics or essential oils due to its scent profile. While recognised for its aroma, linalool has also attracted attention for its various properties.

Academic interest in linalool, like the research published in the Journal of Surgical Research, has grown in recent years, with studies exploring its interaction with various plant compounds and how it contributes to the aroma profiles of botanicals.

Additionally, linalool’s distinctive floral aroma contributes to the sensory appeal of products such as candles, soaps, and diffusers, which are often selected for their pleasant scents.

Given its prevalence in both cannabis strains and other products, understanding the uses of linalool remains a subject of interest. In the following sections, we will examine what makes this terpene unique and why it has become so widely used in recent years.

Chemical structure and properties of linalool

Linalool belongs to the family of monoterpenes, which are composed of two isoprene units (C10H16). The chemical formula for linalool is C10H18O.

Linalool has a chemical structure consisting of two benzene rings connected by a central oxygen atom, classifying it as an alcohol. This structure contributes to its usefulness in different applications.

Linalool’s boiling point is 198°C. Depending on its form—either dextrorotatory or levorotatory—it can appear as a liquid or solid at room temperature. Its refractive index, which measures how light passes through it, ranges from 1.460 to 1.505, depending on its level of purity.

Common sources of linalool outside of cannabis

Linalool is a naturally occurring terpene found in various plant species, with some sources containing higher concentrations than others outside of cannabis. Its floral scent makes it valuable across multiple industries. Key sources of linalool include:

• Flowers
  • Lavender and rosewood are well-known for their fragrance profiles, to which linalool contributes significantly.
• Citrus fruits
  • Lemon and orange peels contain high levels of limonene, a compound that can be enzymatically converted into linalool.
  • Limonene is also present in cannabis and can undergo similar conversions to boost linalool production in some strains.
• Tree essential oils
  • Ho wood and coriander essential oils hold significant amounts of linalool.
  • Eucalyptus is another source of terpenes, including linalool.

This distribution across various plants highlights linalool’s versatility and the wide range of sources from which it can be obtained.

Scientific research on linalool

Linalool has drawn growing interest from researchers thanks to its distinctive scent and its influence on the aromatic and chemical character of various plants, including cannabis. Studies increasingly highlight its contribution to fragrance and its ecological functions.

A review published in Frontiers in Pharmacology (2018) explored the role of linalool in plant interactions, including its part in natural defence systems. Much of the research focuses on individual compounds or on plants other than cannabis, but it supports the idea that linalool plays an important role in how plants interact with their environment.

In cannabis, a 2020 review in Molecules identified linalool as one of several key terpenes that contribute to the aroma and distinctive character of different varieties. Some researchers suggest that terpenes like linalool may work alongside cannabinoids in what’s often called the "entourage effect."

Additional insights from the Journal of Cannabis Research (2021) indicate that varieties with a higher presence of linalool tend to offer a soft, soothing aromatic profile.

Although further research is ongoing, existing studies underline linalool’s role in shaping the unique scent and overall sensory impression of different cannabis varieties.

What is the entourage effect?

The role of linalool in cannabis

Linalool is one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis, recognised for its floral, lavender-like aroma with subtle spicy undertones. This compound plays a significant role in shaping the aromatic profiles that distinguish various cannabis strains.

In addition to its scent, linalool interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a complex network within the body involved in regulating various physiological processes. While research continues to explore the broader role of terpenes like linalool, their contribution to the overall cannabis experience remains an area of interest.

Effects on aroma profiles

Linalool is known for contributing to the floral and subtly sweet aromas found in certain cannabis varieties. Depending on the specific profile, this can include notes reminiscent of lavender, rose, or hints of citrus.

Beyond its distinctive scent, linalool plays a role in shaping the overall aromatic impression of a variety, often adding depth and complexity to the experience.

When present alongside other botanical compounds, linalool can introduce gentle, nuanced layers to the aroma; some might describe it as herbal or soft, while others simply notice a more refined character in the scent profile.

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How to identify linalool in cannabis strains

Terpenes such as linalool contribute significantly to the distinct aroma and scent profiles of various cannabis strains. Identifying the presence of linalool in a particular strain can offer insights into its aromatic characteristics, helping to distinguish one variety from another.

Methods for testing terpene content provide valuable information about the composition of each strain, and certain varieties are known to contain higher levels of linalool, contributing to their recognisable fragrance profiles.

Methods for testing terpene content

The most common method for testing terpene content is through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). This technique separates and analyses individual chemical compounds within a sample, including terpenes such as linalool. However, GC-MS requires specialised equipment and is typically only available through licensed laboratories.

An alternative method is sensory analysis, which involves evaluating the aroma and flavour profile of a strain using trained testers. While this method may not provide precise measurements of terpene content, it can still be useful for identifying strains with distinct profiles.

Examples of strains with notable linalool levels

Linalool tends to appear more prominently in Indica-leaning varieties and hybrids with Indica heritage. Here are a few examples where linalool often features more strongly in the aromatic profile:

• Lavender: As the name suggests, this variety carries a distinct floral scent, largely attributed to its elevated linalool content.
• LA Confidential: Known for its earthy base layered with pine and citrus notes, this Indica-dominant variety is often noted for its linalool presence.
• G13: A hybrid with a musky, slightly fruity and spicy scent, G13 is frequently mentioned in discussions around linalool-rich profiles.
• Amnesia Haze: Though Sativa-leaning, this variety occasionally shows higher levels of linalool, contributing to its sweet, earthy aroma.

It’s worth noting that terpene levels can differ depending on factors like climate, soil, and harvest timing. For the most accurate insight into a strain’s aromatic profile, lab reports or guidance from informed specialists can be helpful.

Other uses for linalool

Linalool, though commonly associated with cannabis, is widely used beyond the plant itself. Its distinctive floral scent makes it a popular ingredient in a variety of household and personal care products, including perfumes, soaps, and cleaning agents, where it contributes to fragrance profiles.

Perfumes, soaps, and cleaning agents

Linalool is frequently used in soaps, perfumes and personal care items due to its pleasant scent and compatibility with a range of cosmetic formulations. Additionally, linalool can be found in many household cleaning agents because of its ability to help dissolve dirt and grime.

In addition to these more traditional uses, linalool has shown potential for use in pest control. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), linalool can act as an insecticide against certain pests such as mosquitoes.

Potential future applications

Linalool continues to spark interest in the research world—not just for its botanical relevance, but also for its broader industrial potential. Beyond current uses, some studies have looked into its suitability as a fuel additive, thanks to its energy-rich structure and clean-burning properties.

This level of versatility positions linalool as a valuable compound across multiple sectors. Its natural abundance and range of applications keep it firmly on the radar for future developments, especially in the context of plant-based innovation and sustainable solutions.

Personal perspective

Terpenes are an intricate part of the cannabis plant’s composition, and linalool stands out for its distinctive floral and slightly spicy aroma. This terpene contributes significantly to the scent and aromatic profiles that help distinguish various cannabis strains.

Linalool is also found in many other plants, such as lavender and basil, and is widely used in products like perfumes, soaps, and scented items due to its appealing fragrance.

Research continues to explore the characteristics of linalool across different applications, including industrial and aromatic uses. Understanding terpenes like linalool offers valuable insight into the composition of cannabis strains, complementing the roles of cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.

These elements together shape the overall aromatic and sensory profile of each strain, providing a fuller picture beyond cannabinoid content alone. As scientific studies further investigate the roles of terpenes, linalool remains a subject of interest due to its unique contributions to plant chemistry and aroma.

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Can linalool cause allergic reactions?

While generally considered safe, some people with sensitive skin or allergies may experience irritation or an allergic reaction when exposed to linalool.

Does linalool have any side effects?

While generally considered safe, excessive exposure to linalool can potentially cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.

Is linalool found in cannabis?

Yes, linalool is one of the many terpenes that can be found in cannabis. However, it does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with the plant.

Can linalool be used as an insect repellent?

Yes, linalool has been shown to repel certain types of insects, including mosquitoes and fleas.

What is limonene?