Terpenes are known for giving many plants their characteristic scent. However, they also have some amazing health benefits.
Cannabinoids like CBD act on receptors in our endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce various effects.
Here’s where it gets interesting: Some terpenes also act on our ECS similar to those cannabinoids, creating unique effects or enhancing others.
But can you effectively manage anxiety by using the right terpenes?
What Are Terpenes? Can They Help Manage Anxiety?
Before we get into which terpenes are best for calming anxiety and depression symptoms, let’s quickly discuss what terpenes are and how they can help.
Terpenes are organic compounds found in flowers, fruits, insects, and, you guessed it, hemp plants.
You know how lavender products can help promote relaxation and a sense of calm? You can thank terpenes for that.
Cannabinoids work with terpenes to boost the effect of each other in our ECS.
Are cannabinoids the solution to your anxiety? Find out here.
Which Terpenes Are Best for Anxiety?
The effectiveness of different cannabinoids (CBD, CBG, CBN, THC, etc.) for treating anxiety symptoms has to do with various factors. And now you know about one of the most important ones: Terpenes.
Various terpenes can help induce and enhance feelings of natural calmness and relaxation. There are a ton of terpenes out there, so how do you tell which ones are best for managing anxiety?
With our help, of course.
Is Alpha-Pinene Good for Anxiety?
Alpha-pinene, as the name suggests, naturally comes from pine trees. It’s an earthy terpene that can help increase cognitive function, reduce depression symptoms, calm anxiety, reduce inflammation, and acts as a mood stabilizer.
That said, there’s not a whole lot of research regarding alpha-pinene and anxiety. However, some studies show promising results, like the one linked above, and additional research shows the anti-anxiety potential of this wonderful terpene.
Does Caryophyllene Help With Anxiety?
Caryophyllene, specifically beta-caryophyllene, is an amazing terpene. It’s a powerhouse for fighting pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation.
Another study shows its potential to help with anxiety and depression.
It does this by interacting with the ECS’s CB2 receptors, which provide an alternative therapeutic target for treating anxiety, depression, and other similar conditions.
Interestingly, lemon balm and black pepper contain this terpene, too.
Is Limonene Good for Anxiety?
Limonene is a popular terpene known for its ability to produce a feeling of overall well-being. Some experiments show that limonene is strongly anxiolytic (meaning it reduces anxiety) and gives our serotonin levels a boost — similar to how many antidepressants work.
Limonene also helps other substances pass into and out of our cell walls more easily, contributing to its anti-anxiety properties. Plus, it’s a popular terpene among cannabis users who experience anxiety when consuming THC.
In addition, limonene can improve behavioral function and slow cognitive decline. Bonus.
Does Linalool Help With Anxiety?
Remember when we said terpenes were to thank for lavender’s relaxing effects? Well, that terpene is linalool, well known for its anti-anxiety properties.
And it’s even more potent when combined with alpha-pinene, showing antidepressant activities in high doses.
As a bonus for those who use SSRIs to manage their anxiety or depression symptoms, research shows linalool’s anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties make those medications more effective.
Linalool is fantastic for relaxing your mind and body to discover your natural calm space.
Is Myrcene Good for Anxiety?
Myrcene is found in various herbs — the cannabis plant typically has a high percentage of this terpene. Its sedative properties are only one reason why it can help manage anxiety.
This terpene synergizes well with other cannabinoids and has various beneficial properties.
Myrcene has many uses, from its antioxidant and anti-aging activities to acting as an inflammatory and alternative pain treatment.
But let’s focus on how it can help you achieve natural calm.
One of myrcene’s most significant effects is on the central nervous system and brain; it’s well-known for having anxiolytic properties. When inhaled, it can improve nerve activity and relieve stress, leaving you feeling more calm, relaxed, and in a better mood.
Interestingly, people’s brain activity after inhaling myrcene essential oil showed similar waves to those of people meditating.
Related: How Does CBD Oil Make You Feel?
Can CBD Help Manage Your Anxiety? What Science Says
As CBD popularity grows, so does the number of scientists researching its therapeutic uses, including treating and managing anxiety disorders.As one of the most common conditions, with close to 20% of people dealing with it, it’s no surprise that many are on the lookout for better anxiety management.
CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors, serotonin receptors, and others that regulate anxiety-induced behaviors and fears. This review found evidence that CBD is an effective treatment for various anxiety disorders, including:
- PTSD
- Social anxiety disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Panic disorder
Even more recently, researchers in New Zealand followed almost 400 people using CBD to treat pain, neurological, and mental health symptoms. Each group reported an overall improvement in their life after taking CBD regularly for three weeks.
In addition, those using CBD to treat depression or anxiety reported fewer symptoms and an improved ability to perform daily tasks.
A retrospective study evaluated CBD treatment in adults with anxiety and sleep problems — the result? Almost 80% of participants saw improvement in their anxiety after two months. Not to mention that one review of eight studies investigating CBD’s effectiveness for treating anxiety determined CBD to be as effective as therapy for treating various anxiety disorders.
Ready to experience CBD’s effects on anxiety for yourself? Shop Popped here.
Find Your Natural Calm With CBD and Terpenes
If you continue to struggle with anxiety and want to find a more natural way to treat your symptoms, it might benefit you to try CBD or CBD mixtures with various terpenes.
While CBD isn’t a “miracle drug” that you’ll see some brands claim, it’s pretty damn close. If anxiety’s got you down, we say trying something new is worth a shot.
Related: CBD for Concentration