Can Cannabis Terpenes Really Help with Pain? 🤔 Breaking Down the Science
If you've ever enjoyed the soothing scent of lavender or the zesty kick of a lemon peel, you’ve experienced terpenes—the aromatic compounds that give plants their unique smells and flavors. But beyond their pleasant fragrances, new research suggests these same terpenes found in cannabis could play a key role in natural pain relief.
A groundbreaking study from the University of Arizona, published in Springer Nature (December 2023), reveals that certain cannabis terpenes may help reduce pain—without the psychoactive effects of THC. Let’s dive into the findings, what they mean, and how they could shape the future of pain management.
What Are Terpenes, and Why Do They Matter?
Terpenes are organic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis, where they contribute to the distinct aroma and flavor of different strains. But they do more than just smell good—research suggests they may also influence how cannabis affects the body.
Some of the most well-studied terpenes include:
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Linalool (found in lavender) – Known for its calming, anti-anxiety effects.
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Limonene (found in citrus fruits) – May boost mood and reduce stress.
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Beta-caryophyllene (found in black pepper & cloves) – Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.
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Geraniol (found in roses & lemongrass) – Shows potential pain-relieving properties.
Dr. John Streicher, a pharmacology professor at the University of Arizona and senior author of the study, explains:
“Over the last few years, we’ve been publishing our work on chronic pain, finding that the terpenes are actually highly effective at relieving chronic pain.”
This latest research adds to growing evidence that terpenes could be a powerful, non-intoxicating alternative for pain management.
Key Findings: How Terpenes Reduced Pain in the Study
The study tested four terpenes—linalool, beta-caryophyllene, geraniol, and alpha-humulene (found in hops)—on mice with two types of pain:
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Post-surgical pain (simulated through a minor procedure)
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Fibromyalgia-like pain (induced with a blood pressure medication called reserpine)
The Results?
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Geraniol & alpha-humulene significantly reduced post-surgical pain.
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Geraniol & linalool eased fibromyalgia-related pain.
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Effects lasted about two hours, similar to some over-the-counter pain relievers.
Ryan Vandrey, a cannabis researcher at Johns Hopkins, noted:
“There’s decent evidence for terpenes’ analgesic effects… but we do have to distinguish between this experiment and the typical human experience.”
The Catch? Dosage Matters.
The mice were given high doses (200 mg/kg) via injection—far more than what you’d get from smoking or consuming cannabis. As Dr. Josh Kaplan (Western Washington University) pointed out:
“People would have to be taking supplements to achieve these benefits.”
Still, the study provides a strong starting point for future research on terpene-based pain treatments.
How Could This Impact Future Pain Relief?
While we can’t yet say, “Just sniff some lavender and your back pain will vanish!”, this study opens doors for:
🔬 New non-opioid pain therapies – Terpenes could offer relief without addiction risks.
🌿 Enhanced cannabis products – Strains or extracts optimized for specific terpenes.
💊 Targeted terpene supplements – Isolated terpenes in precise doses for medical use.
Dr. Streicher acknowledges more work is needed:
“We’re still working on figuring out what the effective dose in humans is going to be, how best to deliver it, and so on.”
How Can You Use Terpenes Now?
While we wait for more human studies, here are some science-backed ways to incorporate terpenes into your wellness routine:
1. Aromatherapy & Essential Oils
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Lavender (linalool) for relaxation.
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Citrus (limonene) for an uplifting boost.
2. Topical Creams & Balms - See Here
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Look for beta-caryophyllene in muscle rubs for soreness.
3. Terpene-Rich Cannabis Strains
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Myrcene-heavy strains (like Blue Dream) for relaxation.
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Pinene-dominant strains (like Jack Herer) for focus.
4. Terpene Isolates & Supplements
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Some companies sell terpene blends designed for specific effects.
The Bottom Line
This study is a big step forward in understanding how cannabis terpenes might help with pain—but there’s still more to learn. For now, it’s another reason to appreciate the complex chemistry of cannabis and the potential of plant-based medicine.
Smoke This Way, we’re committed to cannabis education. Follow us for more updates on terpenes, CBD, and the latest research—because knowledge is the best kind of high. 🌿✨