Higher Learning LV Staff
Jul 27, 20213 min
Updated: Jul 10, 2022
Rather than a single terpene, limonene encompasses two molecular isomers, d-limonene (a major terpene in the cannabis genome and the second most common in nature) and l-limonene (a minor terpene). This Higher Learning LV homework sample considers d-limonene.
These limonene isomers are characterized by the identical chemical formula, but different molecular structures. They are associated with "sativa" types of cannabis due to their uplifting and energizing efficacy.
D-limonene was discovered in 1894 and first synthesized in 1904. It produces an aroma that is, as its name suggests, citrus in nature.
D-limonene was discovered in 1894 and first synthesized in 1904. It produces an aroma that is, as its name suggests, citrus in nature. It is often described as a "fruity and fresh fragrance" with abundant undertones of lime and lemon. D-limonene is among the most simple types of terpenes, the monoterpenes.
This terpene is produced by a number of plant species other than cannabis and hemp, including grapefruit, lemon, lime, mandarin, and orange. It is especially concentrated in orange peels, composing more than 95 percent of the rind's essential oils.
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Most plant species (including cannabis and hemp) produce a variety of terpenes in what is called a terpene profile. These molecules combine to form compounds that emit distinctly unique fragrances. This scheme basically prevents one from sensing the aroma of an individual terpene.
D-limonene was discovered in 1894 and first synthesized in 1904. It produces an aroma that is, as its name suggests, citrus in nature. It is often described as a "fruity and fresh fragrance" with abundant undertones of lime and lemon.
To complicate this issue, many plant species produce a number of types of molecules that emit aroma (regardless of their function). These include esters, amines, aldehydes, aromatics, thiols, lactones, and ketones (often referred to as aroma compounds).
D-limonene has been shown to provide a number of wellness benefits, including the treatment of asthma, allergies, cancer, colitis, heartburn, acid reflux, gallstones, and as an antibacterial agent. Recent studies have even indicated that this terpene may be useful in the treatment of dental decay because of its activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It has also been shown to demonstrate antioxidant activities.
A 2019 study entitled "D-Limonene: A Promising Molecule with Bradycardic and Antiarrhythmic Potential" that was published in the journal Arquivos Brasileiros de Cardiologia explored how this terpene might benefit cardiovascular diseases.
The research found that d-limonene "d-limonene...reduced left ventricular pressure." It noted the antiarrhythmic activity of the terpene. The study's authors concluded that d-limonene delivers "antiarrhythmic activity." However, they also noted that the mechanism of action underlying this effect has not yet been identified.
D-limonene was found to be effective in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (similar to Crohn's or Inflammatory Bowel Disease) via a mechanism of decreased inflammation.
A 2017 study entitled "D-limonene Exhibits Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties in Ulcerative Colitis" that was published in the journal Molecular Medicine Reports explored the ability of limonene to treat a number of diseases, including asthma, allergies, cancer, and colitis.
D-limonene was found to be effective in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (similar to Crohn's or Inflammatory Bowel Disease) via a mechanism of decreased inflammation. The study's authors concluded that limonene possesses "potential antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory properties."
The d-limonene molecule
A 2015 study entitled "Limonene Inhibits Streptococcal Biofilm Formation by Targeting Surface-associated Virulence Factors" that was published in the Journal of Microbiology investigated the potential medicinal efficacy of limonene for a variety of conditions.
The study reported that this terpene may be effective in treatment of heartburn and acid reflux (gastro-oesophageal reflux disorder). Limonene also was found to provide "anticancer activity against chemically induced carcinomas" when fed orally to rodents. In addition, efficacy was cited for gallstones. It was also noted for acting as an antibacterial agent.
The study reported that this terpene may be effective in treatment of heartburn and acid reflux (gastro-oesophageal reflux disorder). Limonene also was found to provide "anticancer activity against chemically induced carcinomas"
The researchers concluded that limonene may be a "strong candidate for use as a therapeutic agent against dental decay" due to its ability to kill various "bacteria, fungi, and viruses" via antibiofilm activity.