Everything You Need to Know About Linalool in Cannabis

You wouldn’t be wrong to think of linalool as the essence of lavender. It’s what makes the flower so relaxing, but that’s not all that it is. It is also found in cannabis, bringing a unique aromatic charm and potential health benefits to you. 

So, what is it and what makes it so valuable in cannabis strains? Let’s find out in this article, where we go over everything you need to know about the linalool present in cannabis. 

What Are Terpenes?

So before we get into what linalool is, let’s refresh our memories on terpenes. They are the aromatic compounds behind countless plants' distinctive scents and flavors, from flowers and herbs to trees, and, of course, cannabis. 

These compounds come in various forms, with simpler structures acting as the foundation for more complex ones. What’s fascinating is that research has been increasingly focused on cannabis terpenes, not just for their aromas but also for their potential health benefits.

What Is Linalool?

Linalool is the soothing scent that immediately brings lavender to mind. This terpene, known for its role in aromatherapy, has been treasured for its calming properties across different cultures. 

Think of it as the natural relaxant found in not only lavender but also in rosewood, jasmine, and — yes — cannabis. It's often referred to as a "natural tranquilizer" in the scientific community, giving it a pretty impressive reputation.

Linalool has been around for ages, with its use spanning centuries, from ancient Persia to today. You’ve probably encountered it in lavender-scented candles or oils, but did you know the Egyptians used lavender oil (rich in linalool) during mummification? 

It’s been a key player in both cultural rituals and natural healing practices. But the magic of linalool doesn’t stop at its historical uses. Modern research is exploring its potential benefits in treating conditions like cardiovascular disease, anxiety, and depression. 

This shift in focus emphasizes linalool's diverse role in promoting wellness, showing that it’s more than just a pleasant scent — it's a powerful part of the natural health world. More on its benefits later. 

The Chemistry of Linalool

Terpenes are made up of small units called isoprene, which consist of five carbon atoms, eight hydrogen atoms, and two double bonds. Linalool is a monoterpene, meaning it contains just two of these isoprene units, giving it a molecular formula of C10H18O. 

This puts linalool in the category of smaller terpenes, making it highly volatile, which is why its aroma is so noticeable. What sets linalool apart chemically is the oxygen atom in its structure, classifying it as a terpenoid — a terpene with a slightly modified chemical makeup.

One interesting thing is that research suggests linalool might act similarly to cannabinoids in the body. According to a study, linalool has been shown to bind to the CB1 receptor in the endocannabinoid system — the same receptor THC and other cannabinoids interact with. 

This connection hints that linalool could work in tandem with cannabinoids, supporting the entourage effect, where various cannabis compounds enhance each other’s effects.

What Flavors and Aromas Does Linalool Add?

As mentioned, linalool is the reason behind the delightful smell of lavender, delivering a calming effect of floral notes with a touch of citrus and spice. It brings together the soft sweetness of a flower garden, with a hint of roses, and tops it off with a subtle spicy kick that lingers on a bit. Its special scent is among the reasons it is so highly sought after in the cannabis, aromatherapy, and cosmetic industries.

Picture this: you’re sitting at dusk with a warm cup of lavender tea in hand, enjoying the moment as the day winds down. That tranquil, aromatic experience? That’s linalool doing its thing, even if you didn’t realize it was behind the scenes.

Aroma

Linalool lends a gentle, calming fragrance that is a signature of any strain it dominates. Have you ever strolled in a field of lavenders? Or grown some? Those who have won't forget the fragrance ever. 

Likewise, cannabis strains have a unique soothing aroma when they have a large percentage of linalool. Some people describe this scent as floral but it also smells like a bunch of herbs with sweetness and just the right amount of spice. 

The scent of this terpene adds a nice touch to the overall aroma in cannabis strains, so your strain could smell like sweet lavender and pepper too, especially when it contains other terpenes like caryophyllene. Linalool also balances stronger terpenes such as myrcene and limonene, and you'll probably spend more time sniffing your weed than smoking it. 

Taste

The flavor, not one to be left out, is as calming as the fragrance. So, when you consume strains with lots of linalool, you're welcomed with a light floral taste along with some woody and citrus flavors somewhere along the way. The taste of linalool is mild but detectable, and you'll probably make up your mind to grow more buds or head to the dispensary to buy more. Ultimately, it's safe to say that this terpene complements the sweet and earthy flavors of cannabis without being overwhelming. 

Which Plants Contain Linalool?

While linalool usually shows up in small amounts in most cannabis strains, some specific varieties have higher concentrations. But cannabis isn’t the only plant where you’ll find this terpene. It is found in some of the most fragrant and flavorful plants around. 

1. Lavender

Lavender is the most well-known source of linalool. The stress-relieving smell of lavender essential oil is sought after in aromatherapy, bath products, and sleep aids because of its calming effects. 

1. Citrus fruits

Citrus fruit peels, especially lemon and oranges, have linalool as the main component. The terpene is responsible for the fresh, slightly floral aroma of citrus zest. It is heavily used in perfumes and the food industry. 

2. Rosewood

Linalool is found in large quantities in the wood of the rosewood tree, offering a sweet smell. It's also used in perfumes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy products due to its calming and refreshing effects.

3. Coriander

Coriander, better known as cilantro, offers a lot of linalool. The seeds of the plant, as well as the leaves, contain this unique terpene. One of the reasons coriander is used extensively in culinary and medicinal practices is the presence of linalool.

4. Basil 

A must-have for many dishes across the world, basil has moderate levels of linalool, offering a sweet, fresh, and slightly spicy scent. And, since basil has a wide range of medicinal properties, it's used in natural remedies and aromatherapy too. 

5. Birch Trees

Linalool is also found in the bark and leaves of birch trees. Although it's not present in large amounts like other sources mentioned above, it gives off a beautiful light fragrance you just can't miss. 

Other plants like laurel or bay leaves, roses, jasmine, thyme, and mint also contain linalool. Each of these plants brings its own unique flair to the linalool profile, showing just how versatile this terpene can be!

Does Linalool Have Any Health Benefits?

Linalool is like the Swiss Army knife of organic compounds. You’ll find it everywhere — from the calming scent in your go-to lavender candle to fancy perfumes and even insect repellents. 

But where linalool truly shines is in the world of health and wellness, thanks to its impressive range of medicinal benefits. But, before we get into it, remember that it’s important to consult your physician, especially if you’re trying to use cannabis to solve any medical issue. Sure, there are way too many anecdotes and studies that show potential to help with a wide range of illnesses; however, you never know whether it’s good until you get a professional opinion. 

That said, here’s a breakdown of what it can do for your health:

1. Skin Conditions

Linalool is no stranger to skincare. A 2020 study highlighted its ability to help with various skin issues, such as psoriasis, eczema, rashes, and dermatitis. So, if you’ve got sensitive skin, linalool might just be your new best friend.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by red scaly patches on the skin. It occurs when skin cells multiply faster than normal, leading to thickened skin. Linalool can soothe and reduce swelling as it has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm down psoriasis. It may also reduce inflammation in the skin and slow excessive skin cell production that leads to flare-ups of psoriasis. Using linalool-rich products in your skincare routine can help if you’re suffering from this chronic condition. 

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition. It causes the skin to become red, inflamed, and itchy. Linalool can have a calming effect on the irritation and itching that occurs during eczema. Because it fights inflammation and helps the skin barrier trap moisture, linalool can help when you experience flare-ups and feelings of discomfort. Sensitive skin with eczema can benefit from linalool-containing topicals or oils for relief.

Linalool’s calming properties can also be helpful in case of general skin irritation like rash and contact dermatitis. Rashes and dermatitis can be caused by allergies, environmental factors, or exposure to irritants, leading to discomfort, itching, and inflammation. Linalool can help with these symptoms because it reduces swelling.  

2. Anxiety 

Linalool doesn’t stop at the skin — it goes deeper, helping to ease anxiety. Studies on both animals and humans show that it can calm nerves. That’s the reason why lavender essential oil, which is packed with linalool, is often calming for many users. It interacts with GABA receptors that help in calming neural activities. It also helps in enhancing GABA signaling which reduces nervousness and restlessness.

3. Sleep Aid

Linalool can be used as a natural sleep aid due to its sedative effects. With its ability to promote relaxation and ease sleep transition, linalool has been used in aromatherapy for hundreds of years. Cannabis strains that have linalool can often help people who are struggling with insomnia or sleep-related issues. The calming effects of this terpene have a positive effect on the central nervous system, making the user sleep faster and longer.

4. Immunity

Research also points to linalool's potential to tackle a range of other issues. It may help with ischemia, neuropathic pain, insomnia, cognitive impairment, and depression. Linalool, much like its terpene cousin pinene, interacts with the nervous system, offering pain relief and easing tension.

5. Pain and Inflammation

Linalool has therapeutic properties that could help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Long-term inflammation is connected to many conditions such as arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and other pain-related diseases and linalool might help with inflammation, it can be a natural way to treat these conditions.

Linalool can decrease inflammation in the body by changing how our immune cells work. According to research, linalool decreases the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines. Cytokines cause inflammation in various tissues so linalool may have the potential to deal with inflamed conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases. 

The ability of linalool to alleviate pain is documented in some studies. It interacts with neurotransmitters like serotonin to modify the pain perception, allowing the body to experience less pain.  Also, linalool might help to reduce pain in conditions like fibromyalgia and neuropathy. As a result, you can go for strains particularly high in linalool if you want it as a supplement to reduce pain. 

So, when it comes to what linalool can do, think of it as a multi-tool for wellness. It helps with muscle relaxation, pain management, and anxiety, and even has natural anesthetic properties. 

Cannabis strains rich in linalool tend to carry these same benefits, giving you a well-rounded approach to both physical and mental well-being. However, more research is still required to understand these benefits properly. 

How to Identify Cannabis Products Rich in Linalool

Although linalool is a dominant terpene in many cannabis strains, it can be slightly tricky to identify products that contain the terpene. Let's go over how you can narrow the process down:

1. Read labels and lab reports

The best way to find out if linalool is present in a cannabis product is through lab reports. Cannabis products, if they are legal, are tested rigorously by third-party labs and published on the package or are available if you request them. 

Lab reports usually analyze the cannabinoid and terpene profiles of a cannabis strain. Search for "Linalool" under the Terpene content section. Typically, there should be at least 0.3 to 1% of linalool although the content varies according to the strain and growing conditions. 

Some companies highlight a few key terpenes on their labels. If the product claims to relax, calm, or smell like essential oils or has a floral fragrance, the strain likely has linalool. 

Some of the products have QR Codes and batch numbers that lead to detailed lab reports. You can scan the code to see the product’s terpene profile in order to confirm if linalool is in the product and find out the concentration too. 

2. Scents and flavors

Linalool is well known for its lavender-like aroma, as you know already, so you may as well put your nose to the test. Of course, you can use your sense of taste too but the budtender probably won't take kindly to you tasting the buds, haha! 

Your sensory perceptions may not be as precise as lab tests, but they provide a reasonable estimate of the strain's terpenes. After all, you should trust your nose, especially when you’re fiddling with cannabis. 

One of linalool’s signature characteristics is its intense floral smell reminiscent of lavender. When you pop open a jar of weed or take a whiff, do you smell any fresh flowers, maybe lavender, or even a hint of sweetness? If you smell these scents, the strain certainly has some linalool.   

Linalool can also have citrusy or spicy notes, depending on the terpenes with which it is combined, such as limonene and myrcene. The hint of floral aroma mixed with citrus or herbal notes can mean your cannabis is high in linalool.

Inhaling or taking on a strain that has a lot of linalool may produce a smooth, floral flavor that’s reminiscent of lavender or spice. This terpene creates a relaxing effect on the body. The flavor is often sweet and can be floral as well, similar to the aroma.

Which Cannabis Strains are Rich in Linalool?

Now, let’s get to the meat of the matter — which strains contain this terpene? So, let’s dive into some of the top strains that pack a punch of linalool. Here are some popular strains:

• Mazar 

Mazar is an Indica-dominant hybrid that draws from landrace genetics, rooted in Afghanistan. Consider growing this strain indoors to speed up germination, especially if you plan to keep the temperature around 25°C. 

Mazar’s bushy, stocky structure will also benefit from defoliation during the vegetative stage to promote airflow. When/if you move it outdoors, it thrives in sunny spots, reaching up to 120 cm and delivering around 500-600 grams per plant by harvest.

With dense, trichome-covered buds and a floral, fresh flavor thanks to linalool, Mazar offers both beauty and potency. After proper drying and curing, this strain provides a THC content of up to 20%, making it a top pick if you are seeking a relaxing, floral-induced experience.

• Do-Si-Dos Auto

When growing this strain, you should seed it directly into 11-liter fabric pots to avoid disturbing the roots later. By the end of week one, your seedlings will stand at around 3 cm tall. 

Now, it’s time to train it with Low-Stress Training (LST) during week three to keep the plants compact and discreet, ideal for stealth growing. If you move them outdoors, they’ll peak at around 60 cm by the end of the vegetative stage.

With proper training, your Do-Si-Dos Auto can reach 80 cm during bloom, or up to 140 cm without training. After 9–10 weeks, you’ll harvest up to 150 grams of purple-green buds. The citrusy linalool aroma adds to its relaxing and soothing high.

• Zkittlez

Zkittlez, an award-winning strain, traces its lineage back to Grape Ape, Grapefruit, and an unknown cultivar. This Indica-dominant variety grows compact and bushy, so early defoliation and training are key to preventing mold during bloom. 

Once the threat of frost passes, you can proceed to plant Zkittlez directly into rich, organic soil. Expect your plants to peak at around 100–120 cm as they enter the flowering stage.

As they mature, you’ll notice the air filled with the citrusy scent characteristic of linalool-rich strains. Expect compact, resinous buds and big yields by October. This is a perfect strain if you appreciate the relaxing, flavorful experience it has to offer.

• Royal Skywalker

To get started with Royal Skywalker seeds, use the paper towel method for faster germination. Transfer the sprouted seeds into 15–20-liter pots, and by the end of the second week, the seedlings will grow to 7–10 cm. 

Once they start growing tall, give them plenty of nitrogen for vigorous vegetative growth, and by the end of this stage, they’ll stand 80–150 cm tall. During early bloom, Royal Skywalker can reach heights of up to 200 cm. 

Expect the harvest time in October with a yield between 500–600 grams per plant. These buds are a treat with their blueberry, citrus, and pepper notes, complemented by a potent 25% THC that delivers a strong mind-body high.

• OG Shark

OG Shark is a rare hybrid strain that gained popularity for its strong effects and complex collection of terpenes. OG Shark’s exact genetics are somewhat of a mystery, but it’s thought to be a balanced hybrid or slightly Indica-leaning strain that manages to provide the best of both worlds. You can expect a little mental stimulation with physical relaxation when smoking it at the right dose. Linalool is one of the most important terpenes in this strain and it accounts for the strain’s aroma and benefits.

The distinctive smell of OG Shark is pungent, earthy, and floral sweet. Overall, the fragrance hits you in the face with a bit of skunkiness too  It is strong, earthy, and has a skunky smell. Thankfully, high levels of linalool add light floral and herbal aromas to the strain to balance its heavier musk-like scents. 

OG Shark has a complex flavor as well. Once you inhale it, you'll often detect the earthy taste of this strain, which has woody undertones. The exhale has a sweeter taste with some floral elements from linalool. It has a bold yet smooth flavor that makes this a great option for someone who prefers strains with more complex flavors.

Coming to the effects, OG Shark is an excellent strain that produces powerful full-body effects. If you're looking for a strain after a long week of work during the weekend, look no further than this girl. The effects are quick and powerful like a train speeding right at you. At first, there's a wave of euphoria and clarity that's enough to take the edge off. Your anxiety wears down as you get comfortable and chat happily, whether it’s with someone else or just your inner monologue. 

Then, the indica takes over. Your muscles feel like they are melting away, and the tension slowly dissipates as you sink deeper into your couch. 

As you know already, the terpenes work with cannabinoids, and since OG Shark has high amounts of linalool, you'll feel a calming high that runs through the body. No, you won't be heavily sedated or drowsy; instead, there's a mellow high that seems to go on forever. 

OG Shark’s blend of cannabinoids and terpenes is popular with medical marijuana patients. The ability to relieve stress probably has something to do with high levels of linalool. Combined with myrcene, it might also help to reduce pain owing to the entourage effect, which simply means that the terpenes work together to enhance the effects of the strain. 

Many users say OG Shark makes them feel less nauseous and more hungry. So, be careful with the munchies unless you're using the strain to improve your appetite. 

Coming to the aspects of cultivation, OG Shark is moderately difficult to grow. Thus, make sure you develop some experience growing a few strains before you try growing this gem. You can grow the plants both indoors and outdoors but keep in mind that the buds can get very heavy so you need to support the plants with some stakes. 

• Kosher Kush

Also known as “Kosher”, Kosher Kush is an indica strain with a reputation for having some sort of magical powers. Kosher Kush claims to descend from OG Kush and it hails from Los Angeles. However, the exact lineage may be untraceable. This one has tank loads of THC, often exceeding 20%. It also contains linalool that adds a beautiful floral touch to an already unbeatable fragrance.

To put it simply, Kosher Kush has a harmonious scent. Some users describe it as skunky, but most experience it as aromatic and berry-rich, with floral hints as well. The aroma of this strain is often characterized as potent and pungent, nostalgic of damp earth, pine, and herbal spice. The underlying floral and lavender notes from linalool balance out the earthiness and create a calming and inviting fragrance — one that cannabis users appreciate.

Kosher Kush offers a similarly multi-layered taste experience. When you inhale, you’ll notice a typical robust earthy flavor alongside hints of pine and herbs. You’ll also taste floral and citrus with the exhale. The smoke is smooth, enjoyable, rich, and refreshing. Kosher kush is not just your typical earthy strain as the floral elements give this particular strain a remarkable flavor complexity that's tough to find in many strains. 

Coming to the effects, Kosher Kush hits pretty hard. It doesn’t knock you out, but it does offer that cough-lock high, so you can’t use it before driving or working on something that requires you to be focused. 

The physical impact of Kosher Kush is potent, and so is its ability to make one mentally calm without excessive highs. Many users report feeling mentally clearer and at peace; they feel totally relaxed without feeling mentally hindered by this strain. 

Most cultivators love growing Kosher Kush as it is not that hard. It grows both indoors and outdoors but grows incredibly well when you control the temperature and humidity indoors; the plants yield dense, resin-heavy buds with heavy yields. It’s a great-yielding strain for anyone wanting to grow weed high in THC.

Summary: Everything You Need to Know About Linalool in Cannabis

In short, linalool is more than just a pleasant scent; it's a versatile compound that promotes relaxation and well-being. Present in many plants, from lavender tea to some cannabis strains, it’s time you start enjoying the lush flavor and relaxing benefits of linalool in your daily life!