Linalool Terpene & Its Sedative Effects Explained

The linalool terpene is a fascinating aromatic compound found in cannabis and many other plants. Linalool is most recognizable in lavender. It is also found in some citrus plants, birch, rosewood, laurels, and coriander.

Linalool offers a floral and calming presence, and research suggests it might play a role in the sedative effects associated with some cannabis strains. Linalool and other terpenes may also work to strengthen certain effects of cannabinoids in a phenomenon called "the entourage effect."

What Is Linalool?

Linalool is a fascinating terpene found not only in some cannabis plants but in many plants and flowers. Terpenes, the aromatic compounds in plants, significantly influence the aroma, flavor, and therapeutic benefits of different cannabis strains.

Linalool is a key component of lavender and other essential oils valued for their relaxing and sedative effects. Lavender essential oil is frequently used for massage, relaxation, and sleep. Linalool is also a key component of some of the best strains for relaxation. 

Where Is Linalool Found in Nature?

Linalool can be found in over 200 plants. These include lavender, mint, and basil as well as some cannabis strains. Linalool may be present in different concentrations depending on which cultivar you choose.

What Is Linalool's Aroma and Flavor?

Linalool's unique aroma may seem familiar even if you’ve never heard of it! This is because linalool gives lavender its unmistakable sweet and floral smell.

What Does Linalool Smell Like?

Linalool is known for its pleasant and calming aroma, often described as a blend of the following:

• Floral: The most prominent aspect of linalool's scent is its floral character. 

• Spicy: A subtle spiciness can sometimes accompany the floral notes.

• Herbal: Linalool can have a herbal undertone. This isn't a dominant characteristic, but a subtle touch that can remind you of fresh herbs like basil or spearmint.

What Does Linalool Taste Like?

Linalool-rich strains taste much the same as its scent: floral with spicy or herbal undertones.

Linalool's Sedative Effects

Lavender, a key source of linalool, has been known for its calming effects for millennia. The earliest records of lavender are over 2500 years old. Modern research gives scientific credence to linalool's traditional uses.

For example, studies on mice found linalool to be effective in producing sedative effects on the central nervous system. It has also been associated with protection against convulsions and is believed to have hypnotic and hypothermic properties.

Linalool and Sleep Disorders

Many cannabis strains containing linalool are associated with inducing a sense of deep relaxation when inhaled. Apart from a wealth of anecdotal evidence to back this up, a 2020 study explored the sedative and hypnotic effects of linalool. Mice and rats treated with linalool were found to have a higher sleep rate, shorter sleep latency, and the longest duration of sleep than the control groups.

Linalool's Other Effects and Benefits

Linalool is best known for its sedative effects. Other linalool effects include:

Calming and Stress-Relieving

Individuals suffering from stress or anxiety after a hard day may benefit from linalool-rich cannabis strains. Interestingly, researchers found that linalool impacts the brain through its aroma, not by entering the bloodstream through inhalation. This means that strains with the distinctive linalool smell could have stress-relieving properties.

The same study showed that linalool—unlike prescription drugs like benzodiazepines—works as an anti-anxiety drug without impairing movement. Linalool could therefore provide a safer and more natural alternative to pharmaceuticals prescribed to reduce stress or anxiety.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain caused by arthritis, neuropathic pain, or migraines could be alleviated with strains high in linalool. This is because linalool has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

It’s thought that terpenes like linalool work in tandem with cannabinoids in cannabis plants to produce each strain’s unique effects. Full-spectrum products are therefore recommended for individuals searching for greater well-being rather than consuming isolated cannabinoids or terpenes. 

High-Linalool Strains to Try

One crucial thing to know when searching for linalool-rich strains is that few strains contain high levels of linalool. In fact, linalool often doesn't even make it into the top three.

Try one of these linalool-rich strains or ask an expert budtender in one of our Seattle dispensaries for their favorite linalool strain:

Mazar I Sharif

Indica, 13% THC/0% CBD

Linalool is the dominant terpene in Mazar I Sharif, an indica strain known for its mind-bending effects. Expect an intense sense of relaxation and even couch lock as its blissful wave of calm takes over your whole body.

Mazar I Sharif has a spicy, herbal taste and aroma reminiscent of sage. Consume in the evening for a deep sense of relaxation as you drift off into an uninterrupted night of sleep.

Wedding Mints #13

Hybrid, 20% THC/0% CBD

Wedding Mints #13 boasts a gorgeous sweet, minty, citrusy flavor with hints of vanilla and a similar fruity/minty aroma on the exhale. This is the perfect strain to kick back and relax as you let the effects wash over you. Enjoy uplifting feelings as you sink into the couch and let a pure sense of calm take over. Consume in the evening for the ultimate night of relaxation.

Do-Si-Dos

Indica-Dominant Hybrid, 25-30% THC/1% CBG

Do-Si-Dos is a highly potent strain known for its colorful buds and leaves and pungent yet sweet, minty aroma and flavor. Consumers report a rush of uplifting, euphoric energy before a blissful sense of calm and contentment takes over. Enjoy a warm body buzz while your mind enters a meditative, contemplative state. Try Raspberry Do-Si-Dos for an extra hint of fruity, berry goodness.

Scooby Snacks

Hybrid, 22% THC/0%CBD

Scooby Snacks is a great strain for people who prefer more piney or earthy notes. Expect an uplifting and euphoric boost before being encompassed by a serene sense of calm in mind and body. Feel the tingly effects creep through your body as you succumb to its sedative, deeply relaxing effects. Keep some (Scooby) snacks on hand as some consumers report a major case of the munchies!

Choose Linalool-Rich Strains for Blissful Relaxation

Strains high in linalool are few and far between. However, they should become a mainstay for consumers wishing to beat insomnia and anxiety. Ask a budtender in your local dispensary about which linalool-rich strains they recommend for a blissfully relaxing evening.

Strains containing linalool are also associated with several therapeutic effects that make them appealing both to recreational and medical consumers. Remember that linalool strains are best taken in the evening when your tasks are done and you can feel free to let linalool's sedative effects take over.