Welcome to homework assignment CCC 1.30 of the Core Cannabis Course from Higher Learning LV. In this assignment, students learn about limonene, a terpene produced by cannabis, hemp, and many other plant species, including lemons, oranges, and grapefruit. Limonene is the second most common terpene in the world (next to alpha-pinene) and is one of the eight super class terpenes identified in the 2022 peer-reviewed research study as being the most common in North American cannabis cultivars.
In the assignments that follow, students are exposed to in-depth analysis of limonene, including its aroma profile and the potential medicinal benefits delivered by this terpene.
What is Limonene?
Limonene, also known as d-limonene, is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis/hemp/marijuana and the second most common terpene throughout nature. This popular phytomolecule delivers an aroma and flavor that is fruity and citrus, with heavy notes of lemon that are sometimes described as zesty.
"Limonene is produced by cannabis, juniper, mint, oranges, limes, lemons and grapefruit—among other botanical species."
This terpene is produced by many botanical species beyond cannabis, including caraway, dill, fennel, juniper, mint, oranges, pine, rosemary, lemons, lime, and grapefruit (it is most abundant in the peels of citrus fruits). Limonene can be found in the cannabis cultivars Do-Si-Dos, Lemon G, Liberty Haze, Tahoe OG, Purple Hindu Kush, Wedding Cake, and White Fire OG.
