Best Terpenes for Anxiety

Hundreds of strains are available to medical cannabis patients now, which means the cannabinoid and terpene combinations are virtually limitless. With so many options available, it can be confusing to get started – especially for new patients. For example, the best terpenes for anxiety might be a combination that’s not ideal for other symptoms or desired effects.

So, aromatic molecules help the most in alleviating symptoms of anxiety?

Which Terpenes Help Most With Anxiety?

With thousands of aromatic molecules within plants, there are quite a number of potentially effective terpenes against a wide range of symptoms, including anxiety.

Limonene, linalool, pinene, and caryophyllene are some of the most researched terpenes for anxiety and stress to date. Each may offer a unique flair for anxiety relief.

Limonene

Found in citrus fruits, limonene is known for its potential to boost serotonin and dopamine levels. These boosts may lead to anxiolytic, anti-stress, and sedative effects.¹ It has a low affinity for cannabinoid receptors. However, its ability to elevate the mood still makes it a strong candidate for managing anxiety.

Linalool

Linalool gives lavender its floral scent. It's widely used in aromatherapy for its calming effects. Research suggests linalool might assist with symptoms of anxiety, especially social anxiety, by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.²

Caryophyllene

Unlike limonene, caryophyllene can interact directly with cannabinoid receptors. Also found in black pepper and cloves, caryophyllene is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving effects.¹ It might be effective for anxiety relief without the intoxicating effects of cannabis.

Pinene

Pinene (both α-pinene and β-pinene) might be one of the best terpenes for anxiety. In animal studies, it is found in pine trees and other plants, reducing anxiety and depressive behaviors. Its benefits for brain health, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, support its use in anxiety management.

When combined with linalool, pinene's effects may be enhanced. Linalool's well-documented ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress may complement pinene's effects, making this combination quite effective for anxiety relief.²

Myrcene

Myrcene, a dominant terpene in most cannabis strains, has been demonstrated to exert anti-anxiety effects and relieve stress.  Participants reported feeling more energetic, calm, relaxed, and an uplifted mood after inhaling cannabis essential oil with 22.9% myrcene.³

Bisabolol and Terpinolene

Animal studies have shown that the terpenes bisabolol, terpinolene, and beta-caryophyllene have potential anxiety-reducing properties. Bisabolol, found in chamomile, has also demonstrated the ability to reduce pain sensation and induce sedation.⁴

Cadinene, Guaiol and Eudesmol (and Caryophyllene)

Cadinene, guaiol, eudesmol, and caryophyllene might be some of the best terpenes to help with anxiety. Research demonstrates that propolis essential oil containing these terpenes significantly improved anxiety-like behavior.⁵

Caryophyllene is highlighted for its broad therapeutic properties. Its ability to interact with CB2 receptors and provide anxiolytic effects may make it a valuable addition to the combination of cadinene, guaiol, and eudesmol.¹

Which Terpene Combinations Help Most With Anxiety?

Combining different terpenes may create an entourage effect, enhancing their therapeutic potential. Combinations may also provide more robust relief, including for anxiety. Below are terpene blends that might be effective against anxiety symptoms.

Limonene, Linalool, and Caryophyllene

According to research, this combination of terpenes (available in a wide number of strains) may create a powerful anxiety-relieving effect. It may leverage the unique properties of each terpene for optimal results.

Limonene is a well-known anti-stress and anti-anxiety terpene. Limonene in weed is already recognized as a potentially effective agent against various symptoms, including its calming properties. Caryophyllene has a wide range of therapeutic opportunities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving effects.¹

Combined with linalool’s calming effect, these three terpenes for anxiety may create a balanced approach. They may combine uplifting, calming, and anti-inflammatory effects for targeted results.²

Pinene and Linalool

When combined with linalool, pinene's anxiety-relieving properties come out in full force. Pinene's anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective potential complement the calming effects of linalool, enhancing the overall anxiety-relieving possibilities and creating comprehensive anxiety relief.²

Cadinene, Guaiol, Eudesmol, and Caryophyllene

Lastly, this combination utilizes the anti-inflammatory and sedative effects of cadinene, guaiol, and eudesmol. It pairs that with the unique CB2 receptor interaction of caryophyllene. Research has already seen positive outcomes for this terpene combination through animal studies. By using synergy, the four terpenes work together to reduce anxiety symptoms further.⁵

How to Choose Strains for Anxiety Based on Terpenes

Trying to narrow in on the right strain to help reduce anxiety might feel overwhelming. There are several factors to consider when trying to find the most effective options for anxiety based on terpene content. Consider the following:

• Terpene Profiles - Look for strains with high levels of terpenes known for their anxiety-relieving effects. Limonene, linalool, and caryophyllene are just some of several examples. These terpenes may reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Certificate of Analysis (COA) - Lab results are an easy way to verify the accuracy and safety of a cannabis strain. Always ask to view the COA before making a purchase. A certificate of analysis provides details about the cannabinoid and terpene content. Patients can feel more confident knowing exactly what they’re getting and that it's safe for consumption.
• Personal Sensitivity - Each individual reacts differently to various terpenes and cannabinoids. It’s important to try different strains to see which ones work best for your specific needs.

Does the Type of Strain Change the Effects?

What works for some patients may not work for everyone. Using the above research and available patient reviews, take the time to experiment with various strains containing a combination of different terpenes, such as linalool, limonene, caryophyllene, and more, before finding one that works best for you.

Secondary Terpenes to Prioritize

The primary terpenes are crucial, but secondary terpenes can be just as important. These sidekick molecules may play a significant role in managing anxiety and enhance the entourage effect one feels from the synergy of compounds.

For example, terpenes like terpinolene, bisabolol, cadinene, guaiol, and eudesmol have been demonstrated in animal studies to have potential anti-anxiety effects.

Strain Families that Work Best for Anxiety Relief

According to patient feedback, certain types or families of strains are often reported to be effective for anxiety relief. Below are several cultivars suggested by consumers, among other varieties.

• Kush Strains - Known for their potent relaxing effects, Kush strains like OG Kush and Bubba Kush are popular among users for anxiety relief. They capture the relaxation while still allowing consumers to tackle the day.
• Haze Strains - Haze strains like Super Silver Haze are known for their balanced effects. They're known to provide both mental clarity and relaxation. A boon for anxiety relief, Haze strains are a go-to for various patients.
• Diesel Strains - Diesel strains, including Sour Diesel, are praised for their mood-enhancing and stress-relieving properties. They may help tackle certain symptoms of anxiety with ease.

It’s important to note that a variety of cultivars may be helpful for anxiety, as each individual’s response to terpenes and cannabinoids can vary.

The 5 Best Strains for Anxiety Based on Terpenes

Selecting strains with the right terpene profiles can significantly help manage anxiety. Here are the top five strains known for their beneficial terpene combinations.

1. Member Berry - Member Berry is renowned for its relaxing effects, making it an excellent choice for anxiety relief. This strain has a prominent terpene profile that includes caryophyllene, humulene, and linalool. The combo is reported to create a balanced effect that promotes relaxation. According to some patients, it's a go-to to reduce anxiety levels. 
2. Fire OG - Fire OG is a potent strain that is reported to be highly effective in managing anxiety. Its rich terpene profile includes limonene, caryophyllene, and linalool. Fire OG is known to deliver euphoria but may also stimulate a hungry or sleepy situation. Either way, the synergy of these terpenes may make it a powerful strain for anxiety relief. 
3. Granddaddy Purple (GDP) - A legendary name, Granddaddy Purple is famous for its potent relaxing effects. Its terpene profile of caryophyllene, pinene, limonene, linalool, and more makes it a powerhouse for anxiety. The compounds in GDP may work together to offer significant relief from symptoms of anxiety and relaxation. 
4. Platinum OG - Patients celebrate Platinum OG for its strong calming effects. These may be attributed to Platinum's high levels of caryophyllene, limonene, and linalool. The combination makes the strain a frequent choice for those seeking anxiety relief, especially in the evening. Considered a "heavy" strain, it's also commonly used for pain and stress.
5. Lemon Cherry Gelato - Lemon Cherry Gelato is a flavorful strain known for its anxiety-reducing effects. The strain's terpene profile of caryophyllene, limonene, and linalool supports positive patient reports. The combination makes Lemon Cherry Gelato a compelling choice for managing anxiety throughout the day.

References

1. Sommano SR, Chittasupho C, Ruksiriwanich W, Jantrawut P. The Cannabis Terpenes. Molecules. 2020;25(24):5792. Published 2020 Dec 8. doi:10.3390/molecules25245792 ↩︎
2. Weston-Green K, Clunas H, Jimenez Naranjo C. A Review of the Potential Use of Pinene and Linalool as Terpene-Based Medicines for Brain Health: Discovering Novel Therapeutics in the Flavours and Fragrances of Cannabis. Frontiers in Psychiatry. 2021;12. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2021.583211 ↩︎
3. Surendran S, Qassadi F, Surendran G, Lilley D, Heinrich M. Myrcene—What Are the Potential Health Benefits of This Flavouring and Aroma Agent? Frontiers in Nutrition. 2021;8. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2021.699666 ↩︎
4. Johnson AL, Verbitsky R, Hudson J, Dean R, Hamilton TJ. Cannabinoid type-2 receptors modulate terpene induced anxiety-reduction in zebrafish. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. 2023;168:115760. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115760 ↩︎
5. Ferber SG, Namdar D, Hen-Shoval D, et al. The "Entourage Effect": Terpenes Coupled with Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2020;18(2):87-96. doi:10.2174/1570159X17666190903103923 ↩︎

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.