Key Takeaways
- Limonene and caryophyllene have both shown promise in helping alleviate nausea.
- Combos of limonene and caryophyllene, limonene and pinene, and myrcene and caryophyllene all may offer relief.
- Check out Green Crack, Wedding Crasher, or Purple Punch for nausea relief.
Don't overlook the terpene profile when researching the best strains for nausea. Terpenes add the aroma to cannabis, and some may assist in combating nausea. Finding suitable terpenes for nausea could help you find relief and make your cannabis experience more enjoyable.
But with so many terpenes and combinations, finding the right options can feel confusing. This guide explores what patients need to know to find the best strains for nausea for their specific needs.
Which Terpenes Help Most With Nausea?
You don’t need to memorize all the terpenes (over 200 have been identified so far!), but it’s helpful to understand which terpenes in marijuana help with nausea.
Two common terpenes stand out for their reported benefits in treating nausea: limonene and caryophyllene.
One of the most recognizable terpenes is limonene, which gives lemons and other citrus fruits their distinct citrus scent. Companies know we like this scent, so you’ll find it in clean, refreshing products like soaps, detergents, and beverages. Women have used the smell of freshly cut lemons or lemon essential oil to help with morning sickness for generations, and researchers have confirmed the science.
Limonene may be very effective in reducing nausea. A study on lemon inhalation aromatherapy among pregnant women found that 40% used lemon scent to relieve nausea and vomiting.1
Limonene is one of the most abundant and common terpenes in many strains of cannabis. Its availability makes it easy to find in dispensaries and various cannabis products.
Caryophyllene (or beta-caryophyllene) is another terpene known for its anti-nausea properties. It’s the spicy, woody scent of black pepper, cloves, and certain cannabis strains. Caryophyllene is unique among discovered terpenes because it interacts directly with the body's endocannabinoid system. Specifically, it may interact with the CB2 receptors, which play a role in inflammation and pain.2
Half of the participants were given caryophyllene in a highly controlled study of gastrointestinal symptoms, and the other half were given a placebo. Researchers found that the caryophyllene group significantly improved nausea compared to the placebo group.3
While various terpenes in cannabis can help with nausea, limonene and caryophyllene stand out based on both scientific research and patient feedback. Exploring strains high in these terpenes can be a great starting point for patients looking to manage nausea effectively.
Which Terpene Combinations Help Most With Nausea?
Each cannabis plant offers a range of terpenes in different combinations. Limonene and caryophyllene emerge as some of the best potential terpenes for nausea management.
Other terpenes may help with other nausea-related factors, like inflammation or stress.
Finding the right combination of terpenes may be particularly effective in managing nausea. While individual terpenes like limonene and beta-caryophyllene are known to help with nausea, their effects may be enhanced when combined with other terpenes. Here’s a look at some potential terpene pairings for nausea relief.
Limonene and Beta-Caryophyllene
A combination of limonene and beta-caryophyllene can be highly effective for nausea. Limonene's uplifting properties and beta-caryophyllene's anti-inflammatory power may provide comprehensive relief. This combination leverages the benefits of both terpenes, targeting multiple pathways that contribute to nausea.1,3 Patients have reported that strains containing both terpenes, such as Sour Diesel and OG Kush, offer significant relief from nausea.
Limonene and Pinene
Another beneficial combination is limonene and pinene. Pinene, known for its anti-inflammatory effects, may work well with limonene's anti-nausea properties.4 Together, these terpenes may help reduce nausea while promoting alertness and focus.5 Strains like Jack Herer and Lemon Haze, which are high in both limonene and pinene, are often recommended for their combined effects in managing nausea.
Myrcene and Beta-Caryophyllene
For patients with nausea accompanied by pain or anxiety, the combination of myrcene and beta-caryophyllene may be particularly effective. Myrcene is known for its sedative and muscle-relaxant properties, while beta-caryophyllene offers anti-inflammatory benefits.3 This combination might help relax the body and mind, reducing nausea caused by stress or pain. Strains like Blue Dream and OG Kush, which contain both myrcene and beta-caryophyllene, are popular for nausea symptoms.
Linalool and Beta-Caryophyllene
Linalool, known for its calming and anti-anxiety effects, can potentially be combined with beta-caryophyllene to enhance its anti-nausea properties.4 This combination may be particularly beneficial for patients whose nausea is linked to anxiety or stress. The calming effects of linalool and the anti-inflammatory benefits of beta-caryophyllene might provide a balanced and effective approach to nausea relief. Strains like Lavender and Granddaddy Purple, rich in linalool and beta-caryophyllene, are often recommended.
While specific scientific studies on these exact terpene combinations are still emerging, patient reports and anecdotal evidence strongly support their effectiveness.
Research on each terpene separately supports its value in combating nausea. For example, in clinical trials, beta-caryophyllene has significantly improved nausea, and limonene has effectively reduced nausea in aromatherapy studies.1,3
Chronic nausea and loss of appetite can lead to additional health problems. Some terpenes, like linalool, may stimulate the appetite.6
When managing nausea with terpene-rich cannabis, use care with your dosing. You’ll reach your optimal dose when symptoms subside. Using too much cannabis can lead to unpleasant side effects or greening out.
How to Choose Strains for Nausea Based on Terpenes
Choosing the right cannabis strain for nausea may significantly improve symptom relief. The most crucial factor to consider is the terpene profile of the strain. Start with the terpenes that have been researched for nausea, like limonene and beta-caryophyllene. Other terpenes may enhance nausea relief. Pinene, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, may complement the effects of limonene and beta-caryophyllene. Linalool, a calming terpene, may be beneficial for nausea that may be brought on by anxiety or stress.4 Humulene, found in hops, has potential anti-inflammatory properties that may aid in reducing inflammation in the stomach that may be contributing to nausea.7
Ask Your Budtender
Your budtender is likely the best source of specific product and strain information. Budtenders can direct you to strains with specific single and combined terpenes ideal for treating nausea.
Ask about strains that are high in nausea-relieving terpenes. Kush strains, like OG Kush (high in beta-caryophyllene), are known by patients for their relaxing and pain-relieving properties. Haze strains, such as Lemon Haze, are said to be uplifting and energizing but may also be high in limonene, which may help with nausea. Diesel strains, like Purple Sour Diesel, are said to combat nausea and stimulate appetite.
Look at the Packaging
Cannabis product packaging in most states includes the percentages of terpenes. Although not legally required everywhere, most savvy cannabis companies know that consumers look for detailed information about the cannabinoids and terpenes in their products.
Verify Third-Party Testing
Every state-regulated cannabis program requires third-party laboratory analysis of products sold. This documentation, the certificate of analysis (COA), should be available from the dispensary. A COA provides detailed information about the strain's cannabinoid and potentially the terpene content depending on the state or brand, ensuring you get the right combination for your needs. You can use this document to verify the presence and concentrations of beneficial terpenes.
Past Patient Experiences
Strains that other patients have found effective can also be useful. You can ask your budtender or refer to patient testimonials and online forums for insights into which strains have worked to combat nausea.
Finding the right combination of THC, CBD, and terpenes that work together taps into the entourage effect of each component of cannabis. Identifying the best terpene combination for nausea may take trial and error. Take your time considering the primary and secondary terpenes and researching strain profiles. Leverage advice and tools like the COA and past patient reviews to narrow in on your ideal strain.
The 5 Best Strains for Nausea Based on Terpenes
Not sure where to start? We’ve compiled a list of five strains with the best terpenes for nausea.
Green Crack
Green Crack is a strain renowned for its energizing effects, which may make it effective for combating fatigue-related nausea. The blend of terpenes might create a balanced treatment for nausea. Limonene, caryophyllene, humulene, and pinene may all help fight inflammation. As a result, Green Crack is a comprehensive option for nausea relief for some patients.
Wedding Crasher
Wedding Crasher is a strain that combines the best of its parent strains and is said to deliver significant relief from nausea. It features caryophyllene, limonene, myrcene, and humulene. Peppery caryophyllene may interact with the CB2 receptors to provide potent anti-inflammatory effects.2 Wedding Crasher is often best suited for nausea accompanied by anxiety.
Purple Punch
Purple Punch is a strain that is particularly effective for nausea due to its terpene profile, which includes caryophyllene, limonene, and pinene. Caryophyllene's potentially potent anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties, paired with limonene's mood-enhancing and anti-nausea effects and pinene's anti-inflammatory benefits, may make Purple Punch a well-rounded option for managing nausea. Many patients might save this strain for evening use or when they can relax.
GMO Cookies is a strain known for its relaxing effects, which can be particularly beneficial for nausea. This strain contains caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene, making GMO Cookies an excellent choice for some patients seeking comprehensive nausea relief, particularly in the evening.
Do-Si-Dos
Do-Si-Dos is said to be another powerful strain for nausea relief, featuring limonene, caryophyllene, and linalool. Linalool may add a calming effect, making Do-Si-Dos particularly helpful for nausea linked to anxiety or stress. This combination of terpenes makes Do-Si-Dos a versatile strain for managing nausea day or night.
Start with any of these strains or research other strains with terpenes for nausea in NuggMD’s strain guide. Understanding the specific terpenes in each strain and how they work together can help tailor your cannabis use for optimal nausea relief. Always consult with your healthcare provider to make informed decisions about your treatment.
References
- Yavari Kia P, Safajou F, Shahnazi M, Nazemiyeh H. The effect of lemon inhalation aromatherapy on nausea and vomiting of pregnancy: a double-blinded, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Iran Red Crescent Med J. 2014;16(3):e14360. doi:10.5812/ircmj.14360 ↩︎
- Sommano SR, Chittasupho C, Ruksiriwanich W, Jantrawut P. The Cannabis Terpenes. Molecules. 2020;25(24):5792. Published 2020 Dec 8. doi:10.3390/molecules25245792 ↩︎
- Shim HI, Song DJ, Shin CM, et al. Inhibitory Effects of β-caryophyllene on Helicobacter pylori Infection: A Randomized Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Study. Korean J Gastroenterol. 2019;74(4):199-204. doi:10.4166/kjg.2019.74.4.199 ↩︎
- Walsh KB, McKinney AE, Holmes AE. Minor Cannabinoids: Biosynthesis, Molecular Pharmacology and Potential Therapeutic Uses. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2021;12. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.777804 ↩︎
- Lewis MA, Russo EB, Smith KM. Pharmacological Foundations of Cannabis Chemovars. Planta Medica. 2017;84(04):225-233. doi:10.1055/s-0043-122240 ↩︎
- Nguyen NPK, Tran KN, Nguyen LTH, Shin HM, Yang IJ. Effects of Essential Oils and Fragrant Compounds on Appetite: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(9):7962. Published 2023 Apr 27. doi:10.3390/ijms24097962 ↩︎
- Liktor-Busa E, Keresztes A, LaVigne J, Streicher JM, Largent-Milnes TM. Analgesic Potential of Terpenes Derived from Cannabis sativa. Pharmacological Reviews. 2021;73(4):98-126. doi:https://doi.org/10.1124/pharmrev.120.000046 ↩︎
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.
