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An October 2022 study entitled "Effects of Super-class Cannabis Terpenes Beta-caryophyllene and Alpha-pinene on Zebrafish Behavioral Biomarkers" that was published in the journal Scientific Reports suggested the existence of a special subclass of terpenes that it dubbed super class terpenes.
"There are more than fifty cannabis terpenes most commonly found in North American cannabis strains, eight of which predominate to form a 'Terpene Super Class,'" explained the study.
The eight super class terpenes identified by this pinnacle study include alpha-pinene, beta-caryophyllene (BCP), humulene, limonene, linalool, myrcene, ocimene, and terpinolene. Higher Learning LV investigates each of these important terpenes in our Super Class Terpenes series.
Read our exclusive summary of this peer-reviewed research study here.
Listen to the C3 Podcast episode regarding this study here.
"More than fifty cannabis terpenes are commonly found in North American cannabis strains, eight of which predominate to form a 'Terpene Super Class.'"
Linalool Overview
Linalool, one of the eight super class terpenes, is known for delivering a floral scent that is reminiscent of French lavender and that sometimes features heavy notes of bergamot orange and potential hints of spice. Like other cannabis terpenes, linalool is never encountered in isolation in the wild. Instead, it combines with many other terpenes (and other chemicals, including esters and ketones) to produce unique and multi-layered fragrances that are characteristics of particular cultivars and individual plants.
This terpene is a popular commercial ingredient used by a variety of product types, including cosmetics and skin care. Like others in the super class category, it is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis/hemp/marijuana.
Mints are a top source of linalool
This terpene is produced by many botanical species beyond cannabis, including bay laurel, birch trees, lavender, mint, rosewood, and sweet basil. In fact, more than 200 types of plants produce linalool.
Linalool can be found in the cannabis cultivars (strains) Amnesia Haze, Do-Si-Dos, LA Confidential, Lavender, Master Kush, OG Shark, Pink Kush, Scooby Snacks, Special Kush, and Zkittles.
"Linalool may also deliver potential benefits for those who suffer from anxiety and depression due to its ability to help alleviate stress."
Like other terpenes and cannabinoids, research has revealed that linalool features multiple avenues of efficacy and may act as a positive therapeutic agent for a number of diseases and conditions. Linalool's potential medicinal benefits include efficacy against neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease (all of which are types of dementia).
Linalool may also deliver potential benefits for those who suffer from anxiety and depression due to its ability to help alleviate stress. In sufficient doses, it may serve as a sedative. In addition, this terpene may also offer potential antimicrobial characteristics.
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