Best Terpenes for Arthritis

When exploring cannabis-based treatments for arthritis symptoms, most people primarily focus on cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD. However, the plant’s aromatic compounds, known as terpenes, also play a notable role in enhancing the overall therapeutic effects.

Understanding the wide range of strains and terpene combinations available for new patients can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the most recent studies to help you better find the right balance of terpenes for arthritis.

Which Terpenes Help Most With Arthritis?

Cannabis consumers increasingly recognize the benefits terpenes, some of the plant’s aromatic compounds, may have on various conditions, including inflammation and pain from arthritis.

While research into the benefits of terpenes for arthritis and pain is far from conclusive, the available data from a limited number of human and animal studies is encouraging. Terpenes may also offer a potential alternative to opioids, which have significant side effects.

In research studies, several terpenes have proven to be good for pain and inflammation, including these:

• Limonene: Limonene has a bright, citrus scent in many fruits. It provides uplifting effects and may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.¹
• Pinene: Renowned for its fresh pine aroma, pinene is one of the most common terpenes in nature. It’s noted for having anti-inflammatory effects, fighting off oxidative stress, and relieving anxiety.¹
• Myrcene: This terpene is among the most commonly found across strains known for its sedative effects. It’s also prized for its pain-relieving properties and ability to reduce oxidative stress, which can help manage arthritis symptoms.^1,2
• Terpinolene: Although less common, terpinolene may be able to reduce oxidative stress, which may help arthritis symptoms.¹ It’s found in cardamom, nutmeg, and sage.
• Linalool: Commonly found in lavender, it has a sweet and floral aroma. Recognized for its stress-relieving effects, linalool may also help reduce inflammation and pain.¹
• Humulene: This anti-inflammatory terpene has an earthy aroma and is found in cannabis, hops, and basil. It also suppresses appetite.¹
• Caryophyllene: This terpene interacts with CB2 receptors, which can help reduce pain and inflammation. Its peppery aroma is recognized in spices like black pepper and cloves.²
• Camphene: Camphene helps with pain relief and reduces inflammation, and it also has an earthy and slightly minty aroma.³
• Bisabolol: In animal models, bisabolol displayed anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits.³
• Borneol: Studies have shown borneol to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation through topical application.⁴

These terpenes can be found in various concentrations within different cannabis strains. As research continues to evolve, improved guidance on terpene for arthritis and pain will help patients strategically use certain strains and terpenes for pain and inflammation management.

Which Terpene Combinations Help Most With Arthritis?

Choosing strains based on indica or sativa categories for effects, whether relaxing or uplifting, used to be the norm. But this perspective is shifting. Now, the focus is turning toward the roles of terpenes.

While there are hundreds of terpenes found on the cannabis plant, a select few are found in higher concentrations than others and can significantly impact conditions like arthritis. 

Generally, terpenes make up between one to three percent of the cannabis flower by weight.⁵ Some strains may have higher levels, but terpenes generally comprise a small but significant part of the plant’s composition.

When searching for terpenes for arthritis, consider individual terpenes and their potential interactions. Various combinations of terpenes have been identified as particularly effective in reducing inflammation and pain associated with this condition.

A trio of terpenes, limonene, pinene, and myrcene feature anti-inflammatory properties. These terpenes have been shown to work together to reduce the swelling and discomfort associated with arthritis.¹

These terpenes, along with terpinolene, linalool, humulene, and caryophyllene, are also effective in managing oxidative stress, which contributes to arthritis.¹ Their antioxidative properties help protect joint tissues from damage and slow the condition's progression.

Regarding terpenes for pain management, camphene and bisabolol have been shown to work well together in animal studies when injected directly into the space around the spinal cord. These terpenes were able to relieve both inflammatory and neuropathic pain.³

The combination of beta-caryophyllene, myrcene, and ginger extract has been shown to alleviate pain and improve joint function, enhancing overall mobility and quality of life for those with knee arthritis.²

When used topically on mouse models, Borneol was shown to offer profound pain relief, which could make it a great addition to other terpene combinations for arthritis.⁴

Together, these terpene combinations may offer a holistic approach to managing arthritis by targeting different aspects of the condition, from inflammation to pain and oxidative stress.

How to Choose Strains for Arthritis Based on Terpenes

Choosing strains for arthritis by indica or sativa labels isn’t always the best way to find effective relief. The focus should be on finding the best terpenes for arthritis and then looking for strains that are rich in these terpenes.

The first step is to look at the terpene profile of a strain. This means researching which terpenes are present and in what concentrations. Terpenes that may help fight inflammation and pain include myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene, linalool, and limonene.¹

Additionally, always request a certificate of analysis (COA) when choosing a strain. Although not all COAs detail terpene levels, they do provide percentages of the plant’s key compounds, including cannabinoids.

While terpenes such as myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene are most commonly found and can provide substantial relief, don’t overlook terpenes like humulene, bisabolol, and terpinolene. These may also play an important role in enhancing therapeutic effects through the entourage effect.

Consumers have recognized certain strains as being more effective for managing arthritis than others, depending on their terpene profiles. For example, Kush strains, rich in caryophyllene and myrcene, are said to be excellent for pain and inflammation.

Haze strains, known for their uplifting effects due to their high limonene content, may help manage mood and pain during the day. Diesel strains, typically high in caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene, are well-known for their potential anti-inflammatory properties.

If you’re having trouble finding the right strain and terpenes, consult a knowledgeable budtender who can guide you on the best strains available. Since individual responses can vary, experimenting with different strains can help you find which ones provide the most relief for your symptoms.

Before starting any new treatment regimen involving cannabis, consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it works with your overall health strategy.

The 5 Best Strains for Arthritis Based on Terpenes

The following popular and widely available strains contain terpenes that may help alleviate pain from arthritis.

1. Granddaddy Purple

Granddaddy Purple, also known as GDP, is rich in terpenes, including caryophyllene, limonene, myrcene, and linalool, all with anti-inflammatory benefits.

2. Chemdawg

Chemdawg, also known as Chem D, has musky, diesel, and earthy aromas due to a rich and woody blend of limonene, myrcene, and caryophyllene. Chemdawg may provide feel-good feelings and relaxation.

3. White Runtz

White Runtz has sweet and sour flavors of peach followed by subtle, earthy undertones. Terpenes like limonene, pinene, and myrcene balance bright with deep aromas and flavors.

4. Island Sweet Skunk

Citrusy, earthy, and skunky, Island Sweet Skunk typically has high levels of pinene, terpinolene, and myrcene terpenes that may provide anti-inflammatory benefits. 

5. Skywalker OG

Skywalker OG has myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene terpenes and rich, earthy, and fuel-like aromas. This mix may provide relief for inflammation, pain, and sleep issues.

References

1. Del L, Cortés H, Caballero-Florán IH, et al. Therapeutic Applications of Terpenes on Inflammatory Diseases. Frontiers in pharmacology. 2021;12. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.704197 ↩︎
2. Farì G, Megna M, Scacco S, Ranieri M, Raele MV, Chiaia Noya E, Macchiarola D, Bianchi FP, Carati D, Panico S, et al. Hemp Seed Oil in Association with β-Caryophyllene, Myrcene and Ginger Extract as a Nutraceutical Integration in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Double-Blind Prospective Case-Control Study. Medicina. 2023; 59(2):191. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59020191 ↩︎
3. Gadotti VM, Huang S, Zamponi GW. The terpenes camphene and alpha-bisabolol inhibit inflammatory and neuropathic pain via Cav3.2 T-type calcium channels. Molecular Brain. 2021;14(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s13041-021-00876-6 ↩︎
4. Wang S, Zhang D, Jinsheng H, et al. A clinical and mechanistic study of topical borneol‐induced analgesia. Embo Molecular Medicine. 2017;9(6):802-815. doi:https://doi.org/10.15252/emmm.201607300 ↩︎
5. Raz N, Eyal AM, Zeitouni DB, et al. Selected cannabis terpenes synergize with THC to produce increased CB1 receptor activation. Biochemical Pharmacology. 2023;212:115548. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115548 ↩︎

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.