Cannabis terpenes have potent anti-inflammatory properties. These fragrant plant compounds block inflammatory signals at their source, prevent immune cells from triggering inflammation, and strengthen your body's natural anti-inflammatory responses.
Terpenes work even better through the entourage effect; they create stronger anti-inflammatory effects than any single compound could achieve alone.
Our THC gummies deliver precise THC microdoses, CBD, and therapeutic terpenes that work together to amplify relief and elevate your mood. Experience a perfect blend of anti-inflammatory and mood-boosting benefits in every bite.
What do terpenes do?
Terpenes are aromatic organic compounds found throughout nature. They are the building blocks of essential oils and plant resins. In cannabis, they create the plant's distinct aromatic signatures. Terpenes are volatile aromatic molecules. That means they evaporate at room temperature and release their characteristic scents, making them highly bioavailable when consumed.
Cannabis contains a rich terpene profile. Their unique molecular structures enable terpenes to interact with multiple biological pathways and create targeted therapeutic effects. Cannabis terpenes:
- Relax muscles and stop spasms.
- Regulate pain and mood.
- Boost natural balance.
- Control appetite and regulate metabolism.
- Support brain function.
- Improve sleep.
- Fight inflammation.
Terpenes exist throughout the plant kingdom, but hybrid cannabis strains contain particularly diverse terpene profiles that work together to combat inflammation throughout the body.
What are the most anti-inflammatory terpenes?
When inflammation occurs, the body releases specialized compounds that trigger swelling, redness, and pain. Terpenes intercept these inflammatory signals to prevent inflammation from spreading and intensifying. They work with our endocannabinoid system (ECS) to activate specific receptors, regulate immune responses, and reduce inflammatory markers.
Terpenes work through multiple pathways simultaneously. Some terpenes block pro-inflammatory compounds, but others boost our body's natural anti-inflammatory responses. This dual action comprehensively fights inflammation.
Here are the top five cannabis terpenes that fight inflammation:
- Caryophyllene
- Myrcene
- Pinene
- Limonene
- Humulene
Caryophyllene blocks inflammation pathways
Your body has a complex network of receptors that control inflammation and pain. Among the most important in the endocannabinoid system are CB2 receptors, which act like control centers for your immune system. Inflammation sets off a chain reaction of signals that cause pain and swelling throughout your body.
Caryophyllene is the only terpene that can directly activate CB2 receptors. It connects with them and triggers a response that stops inflammation signals in their tracks. Because these receptors are found throughout your body, caryophyllene reduces inflammation wherever it occurs.
Brazilian researchers reveal that caryophyllene activates antioxidant pathways through increased GPx activity, creating a two-pronged approach that directly fights inflammation and protects cells from inflammatory damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Myrcene intercepts inflammation signals at their source
Myrcene is a rapid inflammation interceptor. It blocks inflammatory compounds before they trigger pain and swelling responses. A 2021 study explains that myrcene targets pro-inflammatory molecules at their source and stops them from sending out signals that would normally alert your immune system to create an inflammatory response—it stops inflammation before it can spread through your body's tissues.
The study also found that myrcene suppresses inflammatory proteins in your body, particularly gamma-interferon and interleukin-4, which act as messengers that trigger swelling and pain.
Myrcene contributes to the soothing, earthy aroma associated with cannabis. Our low-dose Energy gummies (2.5 mg Delta 9 THC, 5 mg CBD) combine the calming, pain-relieving properties of cannabinoids with the anti-inflammatory effects of myrcene for a holistic approach to relaxation and wellness.
“I love these. My favorite by far. Just one and I'm able to shut my brain up long enough to get things done. And the flavor is wonderful…”
Pinene stops immune cells from triggering inflammation
Pinene is a powerful anti-inflammatory compound found abundantly in pine needles, rosemary, and many cannabis strains. Known for its fresh, crisp forest scent, pinene controls inflammation by blocking multiple inflammatory pathways simultaneously.
During inflammation, pinene stops specific immune cells from dumping out their inflammatory signals, while also acting as an antioxidant to protect your cells from inflammatory damage. The compound targets specific proteins that trigger inflammation, reduces oxidative stress that can lead to chronic inflammation, and helps maintain your immune system's response.
A 2023 study indicates that pinene also blocks the activity of COX-1, an enzyme that triggers inflammatory responses in the spinal cord. Park, et. al. found that pinene reduces inflammation in the nervous system by activating GABA receptors to calm overactive pain signals while protecting cells from inflammatory damage by preventing the breakdown of cell membranes.
Limonene exhibits a preemptive anti-inflammatory action
Limonene is an energizing citrus terpene that gives oranges, lemons, and tangerines their bright, uplifting scent. Beyond its refreshing mood-enhancing aroma, this compound is a potent anti-inflammatory agent.
Limonene fights inflammation at the protein level. It disrupts specific inflammatory proteins before they can trigger an inflammatory cascade. It also blocks key signaling proteins that usually activate inflammatory cells, stopping inflammation at its source.
A 2020 Brazilian study demonstrates that limonene defends the respiratory system because it fights inflammation and oxidative stress that can damage lung tissue. According to the study, this terpene prevents inflammatory damage before it starts and helps control existing inflammation in the airways.
Humulene disrupts the signals that create swelling
Humulene is a woody, earthy terpene found in sage, hops, and cannabis. It intercepts inflammatory signals by disrupting chemical pathways that trigger swelling in your tissues. When inflammation starts, your body releases chemical messengers that tell cells to create swelling. Research shows it blocks the initial inflammatory response and the secondary cascade of signals that normally amplify swelling.
Humulene’s anti-inflammatory mechanisms are similar to steroid medications but without the typical side effects. Rogerio, et. al. hypothesize that humulene reduces the activation of AP-1 by 80% in lung tissue to prevent the inflammatory response. Humulene also restores interferon-gamma levels while lowering inflammatory cytokines.
Our Bliss edibles are your go-to for inflammation relief and relaxation, blending 5 mg THC, 5 mg cannabidiol (CBD), humulene, limonene, and other beneficial compounds into a delicious low-dose gummy. Whether you’re easing pain or looking to de-stress, these expertly crafted edibles deliver calm and comfort in every dose.
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Anti-inflammatory cannabinoids and the entourage effect
The cannabis plant contains a remarkable array of compounds that cooperate to fight inflammation. This activity is called the entourage effect. Israeli research shows that while individual cannabinoids and terpenes reduce inflammation alone, they become significantly more powerful together, targeting multiple inflammatory pathways at once.
Full-spectrum cannabis extracts with a complete range of plant compounds deliver superior therapeutic benefits than single-molecule treatments, especially for persistent inflammatory conditions. That's why microdosing with our low-dose THC gummies is the best way to harness the entourage effect, combining THC, CBD, and a full spectrum of therapeutic terpenes for targeted relief and enhanced absorption.
Our delicious gummies and cannabis-infused drinks manage inflammation in a gentle, controlled dose. For a customizable option, try Buzz Drops™, our liquid THC and CBD tinctures with 2.5 mg of each per full dropper. You can easily mix them into your favorite non-alcoholic beverages and experience soothing relief and relaxation on your terms, with the perfect balance of cannabinoids and terpenes in every drop.
“I absolutely LOVE these Buzz drops. They work quickly and give me a warm, buzzed feeling. I use three droppers…”
What are the negative side effects of terpenes?
Terpenes can pack a punch if you use too much. Your body might react in ways you weren't expecting. This happens because terpenes affect multiple systems in your body at once. While blocking inflammatory signals, terpenes interact with your brain chemistry and nervous system. That's why it's smart to start with a low dose and see how your body responds.
If you take too much or have a sensitivity to terpenes, you might experience:
- Digestive issues such as nausea or stomach discomfort.
- Headaches and dizziness.
- Drowsiness and mental fog.
- Dry mouth and throat irritation.
- Skin sensitivity, especially with topical use.
- Breathing discomfort.
- Increased anxiety.
- Coordination problems.
- Unexpected interactions with medications.
By microdosing, you can enjoy the benefits of terpenes and other cannabis compounds without the risk of overwhelming side effects. Microdosing delivers gentle, mild effects that are easy for your body to process, so you can experience relief and relaxation without disrupting your daily routine.
Best weed strains for fighting inflammation
Hybrid weed strains are a game-changer for fighting inflammation, thanks to their balanced mix of indica and sativa effects. These strains combine the anti-inflammatory and analgesic terpene benefits while promoting relaxation and mental clarity. Many hybrids are rich in anti-inflammatory terpenes which work synergistically with cannabinoids to block inflammatory pathways, protect joint tissue, and reduce discomfort.
Whether you’re managing chronic pain, inflammatory diseases, or acute inflammation, these hybrid strains deliver a comprehensive and therapeutic solution.
Blue Dream
This sativa-dominant hybrid is known for its uplifting effects and high concentration of anti-inflammatory terpenes such as myrcene and pinene. Blue Dream manages pain and inflammation without heavy sedation, which makes it a great daytime strain for those with joint pain or chronic inflammation.
Sour Diesel
With its sativa-forward profile, Sour Diesel reduces inflammatory pain while keeping you energized and focused. Its terpene profile, including limonene and beta-caryophyllene, targets inflammatory cells and boosts mood.
Jack Herer
This balanced hybrid contains a mix of terpinolene, myrcene, and beta-caryophyllene, all known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Jack Herer provides gentle pain relief while improving blood flow to inflamed areas, so it can effectively battle arthritis and joint pain.
Cannatonic
This CBD-rich hybrid is a powerhouse for inflammation management. With a 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD and terpenes such as linalool and humulene, Cannatonic offers powerful anti-inflammatory activity while keeping the psychoactive effects minimal to tackle neuropathic pain or inflammatory diseases.
Blueberry
This indica-leaning hybrid is rich in bisabolol and myrcene, which reduce inflammation and provide deep relaxation. Blueberry is a perfect evening strain to ease muscle tension, soothe chronic pain, and improve sleep.
Inspired by the anti-inflammatory power of the best cannabis strains, our microdosed gummies and drinks provide a strain-free solution with the same targeted benefits of therapeutic terpenes and cannabinoids.
At nama™, we expertly blend anti-inflammatory terpenes with balanced ratios of CBD and THC. Our gummies and drinks target inflammation and provide relief without causing sedation or unwanted side effects. Crafted using premium hemp-derived extracts, each product undergoes thorough testing for purity, potency, and consistency.
All our edibles are federally legal across the U.S. so you can enjoy the benefits with confidence.
Best terpenes for inflammation FAQ
What terpene is antibacterial?
Several terpenes exhibit strong antibacterial activity. Notable examples are beta-caryophyllene, limonene, and terpinene-4-ol (from tea tree oil). These compounds disrupt bacterial membranes and inhibit growth. Limonene, found in citrus peels and many cannabis extracts, effectively combats bacteria responsible for skin infections. Similarly, beta-caryophyllene, commonly present in black pepper and hybrid weed strains, targets bacterial strains that cause inflammatory conditions.
The antibacterial properties of these terpenes are supported by animal studies and preclinical research and highlight their therapeutic potential as safe, natural alternatives to synthetic antibiotics.
What are the best terpenes for pain relief?
When your body detects injury or stress, it triggers an inflammatory response that leads to swelling, redness, and pain. While this response is meant to help healing, chronic inflammation can create ongoing pain cycles that are difficult to break. The most effective natural pain relief targets the pain signals and the underlying inflammation causing them.
Apart from the terpenes that soothe inflammation, here are the most powerful terpenes that provide pain relief:
- Linalool: This calming terpene found in lavender has natural anesthetic properties. It activates specific receptors in your nervous system that block pain signals and reduces anxiety and muscle tension.
- Eucalyptol: This terpene creates an immediate cooling sensation that interrupts pain signals by temporarily desensitizing nerve endings.
- Terpineol: This terpene targets your central nervous system's pain processing centers to reduce how intensely you perceive pain while simultaneously relaxing tense muscles.
- Geraniol: This terpene blocks pain receptor sites while also stimulating your brain to release more dopamine, your body's natural feel-good chemical. This dual action helps minimize the emotional distress that often accompanies chronic pain.
- Bisabolol: This gentle terpene has potent analgesic properties. It acts as a nerve relaxant and local anesthetic, which is particularly effective for surface-level pain.
Hybrid weed offers the richest array of terpenes to tackle pain and inflammation from multiple angles. By combining the soothing effects of indica strains with the energizing, anti-inflammatory properties of sativa strains, hybrids deliver balanced pain relief that eases discomfort and inflammation without overwhelming sedation.
Ease pain and fight inflammation with our Relax Plus gummies. Each gummy contains 5 mg of THC and 25 mg of CBD to achieve the perfect balance for soothing relief and calming comfort.
What are the best terpenes for arthritis?
Arthritis involves two major challenges: chronic inflammation that damages your joints and persistent pain that limits movement and quality of life. In arthritic joints, inflammation triggers a cycle where the immune system attacks healthy tissue, causing swelling and damage that leads to more pain and further inflammation. Breaking this cycle requires compounds that can do both: reduce joint inflammation and provide meaningful pain relief.
Here are the six most effective terpenes for managing arthritis:
- Beta-caryophyllene interacts directly with your endocannabinoid system's CB2 receptors in joint tissue to block inflammatory signals. At the same time, it activates natural pain-relief pathways.
- Myrcene penetrates deep into joint tissue where it prevents immune cells from releasing inflammatory compounds that cause joint damage and swelling. Its muscle-relaxing properties also ease the tension around arthritic joints.
- Terpinolene improves blood flow to arthritic joints and blocks inflammatory proteins to flush out harmful compounds that contribute to joint deterioration.
- Eucalyptol's powerful combination of pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects makes it valuable for small joint arthritis.
- Bisabolol works as a gentle but powerful anti-inflammatory agent that specifically targets joint tissue inflammation while enhancing the absorption of other beneficial compounds.
- Linalool reduces pain and inflammation while also addressing the anxiety and muscle tension that often accompany chronic arthritis. This comprehensive approach breaks the cycle of pain leading to tension, which can worsen joint discomfort.
The diverse terpene profiles in hybrid strains target joint pain, reduce swelling, and promote relaxation to break the pain-tension cycle. Hybrid cannabis strains target the pain and inflammation of arthritis at its source and provide natural relief that helps you stay active and regain control of your joints.
Is sativa anti-inflammatory?
Sativa strains possess notable anti-inflammatory activity, thanks to their unique terpene profiles and cannabinoids. Common sativa terpenes such as limonene and beta-caryophyllene reduce inflammation by modulating the release of inflammatory compounds from immune cells.
Cannabis extracts from sativa strains interact with CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system to regulate the body's immune response to inflammation. Sativa has the ability to reduce joint swelling and mitigate pain from chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Sativa's uplifting effects, combined with its anti-inflammatory properties, energize and offer relief from inflammation without the sedative effects associated with indica strains.
Which terpene relaxes muscles?
Linalool, a terpene found in lavender and cannabis, is effective at relaxing muscles. It interacts with GABA receptors, reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation. Myrcene, another terpene prevalent in hybrid weed strains, enhances this effect by acting as a natural muscle relaxant and reducing reactive oxygen species that can worsen inflammation.
These terpenes also soothe neuropathic pain and alleviate inflammatory tension around arthritic joints. Products enriched with these terpenes, such as full-spectrum cannabis extracts, are highly beneficial for individuals dealing with chronic muscle stiffness or spasticity.
Is CBD or CBN better for inflammation?
CBD is more effective than CBN for reducing inflammation due to its robust interaction with CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, where it modulates immune cell activity and reduces the release of inflammatory cytokines. While cannabinol (CBN) has mild anti-inflammatory properties, its effects are primarily sedative, making it more suited for sleep disorders.
CBD, combined with anti-inflammatory terpenes such as beta-caryophyllene and humulene, enhances its efficacy through the entourage effect. This combination reduces chronic joint pain, acute inflammation, and arthritis.
Can terpenes cause liver damage?
Certain terpenes are safe for consumption but may pose risks in high concentrations. Pulegone, a terpene present in orange peels, can cause liver damage when ingested in excessive amounts. Preclinical studies using animal models have highlighted the importance of proper dosing to avoid toxicity.
Terpenes are known for their therapeutic properties, including potential analgesic effects, which contribute to the beneficial effects of cannabis in managing many types of pain conditions. Make sure the cannabis product you’re using undergoes rigorous testing to exclude harmful terpenes and maintain appropriate concentrations.
What are the most toxic terpenes?
Pulegone and thujone are among the most toxic terpenes when consumed in high doses. Pulegone, a natural compound in pennyroyal oil, is hepatotoxic and linked to liver damage. Thujone, found in wormwood, is neurotoxic and can cause seizures or convulsions. These chemical compounds are carefully excluded from regulated cannabis products for consumer safety.
In contrast, terpenes such as myrcene and beta-caryophyllene are abundant in hybrid cannabis strains and exhibit therapeutic properties. Myrcene has shown anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in preclinical studies, including the reduction of pain in mice. Beta-caryophyllene, a receptor agonist for CB2 cannabinoid receptors, offers protective effects against inflammatory conditions and joint disease without toxic side effects.
Which terpene is best for nerve pain?
Beta-caryophyllene is highly effective for nerve pain due to its unique ability to bind directly to CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. This terpene modulates inflammatory pathways, reducing pain at the source. Linalool also addresses nerve pain by calming overactive nerve signals, alleviating discomfort, and reducing anxiety associated with chronic pain. Hybrid cannabis strains rich in these terpenes are particularly beneficial for nerve pain, offering a balanced blend of relaxation and relief.
What terpenes are good for the lungs?
Eucalyptol and pinene are excellent terpenes for lung health. Eucalyptol, found in eucalyptus and some cannabis strains, reduces airway inflammation and clears mucus, making it beneficial for conditions such as asthma. Pinene, derived from pine trees and hybrid weed, acts as a bronchodilator, improving airflow and reducing inflammation. Both terpenes exhibit anti-inflammatory activity and have been shown in preclinical studies to support respiratory function. These terpenes are commonly included in full-spectrum cannabis extracts for enhanced lung health.
Which terpene is most sedating?
Myrcene is the most sedating terpene, often found in indica-dominant cannabis strains. Known for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier quickly, myrcene enhances the sedative effects of THC, making it ideal for promoting restful sleep. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help relax muscles and reduce pain, contributing to its overall calming effects. This makes myrcene-rich strains popular for managing acute inflammation, stress, and insomnia.
What is the rarest terpene?
Delta-3 carene is one of the rarest terpenes found in medical cannabis. It occurs in very low concentrations across a wide variety of strains. This unique compound shows promising potential benefits in clinical studies, particularly for its ability to promote bone growth and repair, a property not commonly found in other terpenes.
Delta-3 carene may work through multiple pathways, including interactions with cannabinoid receptors and other cell signaling systems. This rare terpene could be an effective treatment for bone disorders.
Resources
Sérgio Gushiken, L. F., Beserra, F. P., Hussni, M. F., Gonzaga, M. T., Ribeiro, V. P., Lima Campos, J. C., Chrysostomo Massaro, T. N., Hussni, C. A., Takahira, R. K., Marcato, P. D., Bastos, J. K., & Pellizzon, C. H. (2022). Beta-caryophyllene as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and re-epithelialization activities in a rat skin wound excision model. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2022, 9004014. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/9004014
Surendran, S., Qassadi, F., Surendran, G., Lilley, D., & Heinrich, M. (2021). Myrcene—What Are the Potential Health Benefits of This Flavouring and Aroma Agent? Frontiers in Nutrition, 8, 699666. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2021.699666
Rahimi, K., Zalaghi, M., Shehnizad, E. G., Salari, G., Baghdezfoli, F., & Ebrahimifar, A. (2023). The effects of alpha-pinene on inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in the formalin test. Brain Research Bulletin, 203, 110774. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110774
Park, B. B., An, J. Y., & Park, S. U. (2021). Recent studies on pinene and its biological and pharmacological activities. EXCLI Journal, 20, 812. https://doi.org/10.17179/excli2021-3714
Santana HSR, de Carvalho FO, Silva ER, Santos NGL, Shanmugam S, Santos DN, Wisniewski JO, Junior JSC, Nunes PS, Araujo AAS, de Albuquerque Junior RLC, Dos Santos MRV. Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Limonene in the Prevention and Control of Injuries in the Respiratory System: A Systematic Review. Curr Pharm Des. 2020;26(18):2182-2191. doi: 10.2174/1381612826666200320130443. PMID: 32220222.
Hata Viveiros, M. M., Silva, M. G., Rubio, C., Padovani, C. R., Rainho, C. A., & Schellini, S. A. (2022). Anti-inflammatory effects of α-humulene and β-caryophyllene on pterygium fibroblasts. International Journal of Ophthalmology, 15(12), 1903. https://doi.org/10.18240/ijo.2022.12.02
Wojtunik-Kulesza, K. A. (2022). Toxicity of Selected Monoterpenes and Essential Oils Rich in These Compounds. Molecules, 27(5), 1716. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27051716
Further reading
How does hybrid weed make you feel?
How does hybrid weed make you feel relaxed?
Pros and cons of hybrid cannabis
What is the best hybrid weed for socializing?
The most common terpenes to relieve anxiety
Nausea-relieving effects of terpenes
What is terpene ocimene good for?
Is hybrid weed stronger than indica and sativa?
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