What terpenes are good for pain relief?

Cannabis terpenes are the unsung heroes of natural pain relief. These aromatic compounds give cannabis its distinct smell, but they also work with your body's pain management systems to soothe discomfort and inflammation. 

Beta-caryophyllene targets the same receptors as many prescription pain medications, while myrcene is a powerful muscle relaxant and sedative. Together, these natural compounds create an entourage effect that enhances cannabis's pain-fighting properties.

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What do cannabis terpenes do?

Terpenes are organic compounds that give cannabis its unique array of scents and flavors. Found primarily in the plant's trichomes (those tiny, crystal-like structures covering the flowers and leaves), these natural compounds have vital functions in the biology of cannabis. Terpenes exist throughout the plant kingdom, but hybrid cannabis strains contain particularly diverse terpene profiles.

The reason you can detect different cannabis aromas is due to terpenes' volatile nature—they readily evaporate at room temperature, releasing their distinctive scents into the air. This same property makes them highly bioavailable, meaning our bodies can absorb them through consumption or inhalation.

Here are some of the many purposes and therapeutic benefits of terpenes in cannabis:

• They are the plant's natural defense system, deterring pests and helping it adapt to environmental stressors.
• They attract beneficial insects that aid in pollination.
• They provide anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• They support healthy sleep patterns.
• They are natural bronchodilators—they open airways and promote better oxygen flow.
• They offer antioxidant protection against cellular damage.
• They enhance cognitive function and memory.
• They regulate mood and emotional well-being.
• They assist in muscle relaxation.
• They interact with the body's nervous system to promote calm and reduce stress.
• They naturally ease pain and discomfort.

This blend of properties makes terpenes integral to the full therapeutic potential of cannabis. Terpenes work best alongside other cannabis compounds to create the entourage effect and enhance their natural ability to provide relief and comfort.

Why does the entourage effect boost pain relief?

Individual cannabis compounds are effective on their own, but they become more powerful when combined. The entourage effect is like a symphony where each terpene and cannabinoid plays its unique role, but together they create something far more impactful than a solo performance.

This synergy impacts pain relief. Different compounds target different aspects of pain. Some reduce inflammation, others relax muscles, and some interact directly with pain receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Your ECS regulates pain signals throughout your body, acting like a natural dimmer switch for discomfort. When cannabis compounds interact with it, they optimize its pain-modulating abilities and lead to more effective relief.

This is why full-spectrum products tend to be more effective than isolated compounds. Full-spectrum hybrid cannabis strains are the best way to experience these powerful entourage effects because they contain a complete range of beneficial compounds working in harmony. 

Our hybrid gummies and low-dose THC drinks are infused with a harmonious blend of THC, CBD, and abundant terpenes to maximize the entourage effect. Find relief with our Bliss gummies, expertly crafted with 5 mg of THC, 5 mg of CBD, and therapeutic terpenes to ease discomfort, reduce tension, and support relaxation.

“They are just what I wanted. Give me a little boost and a good feeling, but don’t make me want to go to sleep or eat the contents of the refrigerator. They wear off gradually and have no negative effects.”

—Lonnie S.

Beta-caryophyllene is the best terpene for inflammation and arthritis pain

Beta-caryophyllene is a powerhouse among cannabis terpenes. It’s also present in many herbs and spices, such as black pepper, and gives them their spicy, warm aroma and taste. The prefix “beta” identifies the most therapeutic version of caryophyllene found in cannabis and other plants to set it apart from its cousin alpha-caryophyllene.

Beyond its aromatic properties, this dynamic terpene acts as an antioxidant and analgesic—it protects cells from damage and eases discomfort. To accomplish this, caryophyllene activates CB2 receptors in your endocannabinoid system, which makes it function more like a cannabinoid.

To relieve arthritis and inflammatory pain, beta-caryophyllene works by:

• Directly activating CB2 receptors to reduce inflammation response.
• Decreasing inflammatory markers in joints and tissues.
• Crossing the blood-brain barrier to provide whole-body relief.
• Working with THC and CBD to enhance their pain-fighting effects.
• Protecting cells from oxidative stress that can worsen joint pain.

A 2020 study explains that these anti-inflammatory properties of beta-caryophyllene are also beneficial for liver disease, diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and neurological disorders. Another study found that continued use doesn't lead to tolerance. Its antinociceptive activity became stronger over the two-week treatment period.

Myrcene is the best terpene for pain and sleep relief

Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in cannabis. It packs an earthy, musky aroma with hints of clove in a wide variety of plants such as hops, mangoes, and lemongrass. Beyond its aromatic profile, myrcene acts as a natural sedative and muscle relaxant, which is why many cannabis users choose myrcene-rich strains for pain management and sleep improvement.

Surendran, et. al. explain that myrcene provides central and peripheral pain relief by releasing natural opioids in the body and interacting with a2-adrenergic receptors in the nervous system. This means that myrcene triggers your body's natural pain-killing opioid system and also directly calms pain signals in your nerves, creating a comprehensive approach to pain management.

Here are myrcene’s therapeutic properties for soothing pain:

• Myrcene calms the overactive nervous system responses and reduces muscle tension. 
• It blocks pro-inflammatory molecules such as prostaglandins and cytokines to soothe inflammatory pain conditions such as arthritis.
• Myrcene enhances cell membrane permeability, allowing more therapeutic compounds to be absorbed and increasing the effectiveness of other pain-fighting substances.
• Myrcene works as a natural sedative by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain. This interaction reduces pain perception while promoting relaxation and better sleep.
• According to McDougall and McKenna, myrcene activates cannabinoid receptors (specifically CB1 and CB2) in joints and tissues. They discovered this because cannabinoid receptor blockers prevented myrcene's pain-relieving effects.
• It blocks the transmission of pain signals between neurons, directly interfering with how pain messages are sent to the brain.
• Myrcene offers neuroprotective properties that reduce nerve-related pain. It protects nerve cells from damage and inflammation.

Soothe discomfort and unwind with our Relax Plus gummies. Only 5 mg of THC and 25 mg of CBD per gummy is all you need to achieve that calming, pain-relieving bliss. You can take one gummy in the morning to ease tension throughout the day or enjoy it at night to relax and drift into a restful sleep.

Linalool targets nerve pain and anxiety

Linalool is a floral-scented terpene commonly found in lavender, cannabis, and many other aromatic plants. This calming compound works as a natural anxiolytic (anxiety reducer) and analgesic (pain reliever).

Here’s what the science says:

• According to a 2003 study, linalool reduces pain by activating opioid and cholinergic systems in the body. An activated opioid system releases natural pain-killing compounds while the cholinergic system regulates nerve signaling and inflammation responses. 
• Japanese researchers reveal that linalool blocks TRPA1 pain receptors in sensory neurons, which are responsible for detecting painful stimuli and sending pain signals to the brain. It also suppresses voltage-gated calcium channels in nerve cells to reduce their ability to transmit pain signals and release inflammatory compounds.
• Linalool has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Quaresma dos Santos, et. al. propose that it decreases inflammatory markers such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and COX-2 and activates the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway to decrease inflammation throughout the body.

Linalool’s forte is fighting pain by relaxing tense muscles while simultaneously calming the nervous system, which creates a state of deep relaxation. This mind-body calming effect makes pain more manageable, improves sleep, and soothes anxiety to help you break free from the cycle of chronic pain.

Pinene relieves pain and inflammation

Pinene is one of the most abundant terpenes in nature, found in pine needles, rosemary, basil, and many cannabis strains. It comes in two forms, alpha and beta-pinene, and both are known for their fresh, pine-like aroma. Beyond its distinctive scent, pinene is a powerful bronchodilator (helping open airways), enhances memory and alertness, and displays strong antimicrobial properties.

Pinene reduces inflammation by suppressing NF-κB and inflammatory cytokines while interacting with the monoaminergic system (specifically norepinephrine and serotonin) to help regulate pain signals. Pinene also synergizes with the body's ECS to enhance pain relief, especially when combined with other cannabinoids and terpenes.

A group of researchers found that pinene crosses the blood-brain barrier quickly and produces peripheral and central pain relief. A 2023 study reveals that pinene also fights pain by blocking inflammatory compounds TNF-α and IL-1β while reducing COX-1 expression, targeting the local pain site and spinal cord pain processing.

Our Energy gummies combine the natural pain-fighting power of hemp-derived terpenes such as pinene, linalool, and myrcene with a precise 2.5 mg of THC per serving. Boosted by a balanced CBD ratio (5 mg per gummy), these compounds work together with real fruit flavors to help you feel your best throughout the day.

Limonene soothes stomach pain

Limonene is a common terpene found abundantly in citrus peels and many cannabis strains, known for its bright, citrusy aroma. It exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Limonene is a powerful ally against digestive pain, working in three main ways: 

1. It calms inflammation in the gut by blocking inflammatory compounds.
2. It relaxes tense digestive muscles to ease cramping.
3. It activates the body's endocannabinoid system to regulate pain and inflammatory responses

The result is a natural approach to stomach comfort that simultaneously addresses multiple sources of digestive distress.

A 2024 article suggests that limonene mitigates nitric oxide overproduction and prevents oxidative stress and inflammation-induced discomfort. This allows limonene to manage the pain associated with intestinal and systemic inflammation.

Eddin, et. al. show that limonene reduces hyperalgesia (a heightened sensitivity to pain) associated with nerve injuries, as shown in studies on pain in mice. This suggests that limonene could be an effective option for managing migraine symptoms by targeting pain sensitivity.

Small amounts of cannabis relieve pain more naturally than any other pain reliever. Microdosing allows you to experience the therapeutic benefits of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and terpenes without the risk of feeling overwhelmed or sedated. By starting with a low dose, you can fine-tune your intake to manage pain while minimizing potential side effects for a balanced and controlled experience.

Read more about the practice of microdosing cannabis and why you should ditch smoking, vaping, and other unreliable methods of consumption for our delicious THC gummies.

How to use terpenes for pain relief

There are many ways to use cannabis terpenes for pain relief, anxiety relief, or improved sleep, but not all methods are effective or reliable. Inhalation, topical applications, and even oral consumption of raw cannabis may provide some benefits, but they can lack consistency in delivering the right dosage of terpenes and cannabinoids. These methods may also introduce unwanted side effects, such as respiratory irritation or unpredictable potency. 

Our low-dose edibles and cannabis-infused beverages are the best way to unlock the soothing power of pain-relieving terpenes. By combining these natural compounds with small, carefully measured amounts of THC and CBD, you can enjoy enhanced pain relief and calming effects of cannabis without the risk of overdoing it. 

Here’s why our microdosed cannabis products are the best way to use terpenes for pain relief:

• Low-dose edibles and drinks packed with soothing, pain-relieving terpenes and cannabinoids allow for the exact dosage of each compound. At small doses, they manage pain with minimal risk of psychoactive side effects. This precision avoids the discomfort associated with higher doses, while still delivering the therapeutic effects needed for pain relief.
• The combination of specific cannabinoids and pain-relieving terpenes in low-dose products enhances their analgesic effects. Remember the entourage effect? The antinociceptive activity of myrcene, limonene, pinene, linalool, and beta-caryophyllene work together to relieve acute pain and chronic inflammation without overwhelming the body.
• Unlike fast-acting methods such as smoking, edibles and drinks provide a slow and steady absorption of cannabinoids and terpenes. You get a sustained release of pain-relieving compounds and a gradual onset of effects, which can relieve neuropathic pain and other types of discomfort for longer periods.
• With cannabis-infused edibles or drinks, you avoid the harmful effects of inhalation, which can irritate the lungs and increase respiratory risk. 
• Microdosing through edibles and drinks promises pain relief without the risk of sedation that can occur with larger doses. Low doses maintain cannabinoid activity while reducing the likelihood of experiencing adverse side effects such as impaired motor skills or drowsiness commonly associated with stronger cannabis products.
• Edibles and drinks are an easy, portable, and discreet way to consume cannabis. You can manage pain in a social setting or at work with no need for smoking or vaporizing.
• Low-dose cannabis options allow for a more tailored pain relief experience, with the flexibility to adjust the dosage according to your needs. Whether you are managing mild discomfort or more persistent pain, you can adjust your intake of cannabinoids and terpenes for a customizable solution to pain relief.
• By microdosing with cannabis-infused edibles or drinks, you can avoid the build-up of tolerance that often occurs with regular opioid use. This approach maintains the effectiveness of pain relief while preventing the need for escalating doses, thus mitigating the risk of developing analgesic tolerance.

At nama™, we carefully blend terpenes such as anti-inflammatory myrcene, pain-relieving beta-caryophyllene, and analgesic linalool, alongside balanced ratios of CBD and THC. Each product is formulated to provide pain relief and comfort without causing sedation or unwanted side effects.

Using only the highest-quality, hemp-derived extracts, every product undergoes rigorous testing for purity and potency. Rest assured, all our edibles are federally legal in the U.S.

With nama, you’re not just consuming cannabis—you're experiencing a carefully crafted solution for pain relief. Explore our collection of cannabis products and discover how the ideal combination of therapeutic terpenes can alleviate your pain and discomfort.

Resources

Scandiffio, R., Geddo, F., Cottone, E., Querio, G., Antoniotti, S., Gallo, M. P., Maffei, M. E., & Bovolin, P. (2020). Protective Effects of (E)-β-Caryophyllene (BCP) in Chronic Inflammation. Nutrients, 12(11), 3273. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12113273

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

McDougall, J. J., & McKenna, M. K. (2022). Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Properties of the Cannabis Terpene Myrcene in Rat Adjuvant Monoarthritis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(14), 7891. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23147891

Peana AT, D'Aquila PS, Chessa ML, Moretti MD, Serra G, Pippia P. (-)-Linalool produces antinociception in two experimental models of pain. Eur J Pharmacol. 2003 Jan 26;460(1):37-41. doi: 10.1016/s0014-2999(02)02856-x. PMID: 12535857.

Hashimoto, M., Takahashi, K., & Ohta, T. (2023). Inhibitory effects of linalool, an essential oil component of lavender, on nociceptive TRPA1 and voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in mouse sensory neurons. Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports, 34, 101468. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbrep.2023.101468

S Maia, J. G., Fontes-Júnior, E. A., & Maia, S. F. (2022). Linalool as a Therapeutic and Medicinal Tool in Depression Treatment: A Review. Current Neuropharmacology, 20(6), 1073. https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159X19666210920094504

Salehi, B., Upadhyay, S., Orhan, I. E., Jugran, A. K., Jayaweera, S. L., Dias, D. A., Sharopov, F., Taheri, Y., Martins, N., Baghalpour, N., Cho, W. C., & Sharifi-Rad, J. (2019). Therapeutic Potential of α- and β-Pinene: A Miracle Gift of Nature. Biomolecules, 9(11), 738. https://doi.org/10.3390/biom9110738

Kathem, S. H., Nasrawi, Y. S., Mutlag, S. H., & Nauli, S. M. (2024). Limonene Exerts Anti-Inflammatory Effect on LPS-Induced Jejunal Injury in Mice by Inhibiting NF-κB/AP-1 Pathway. Biomolecules, 14(3), 334. https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14030334

Eddin, L. B., Jha, N. K., Nagoor Meeran, M. F., Kesari, K. K., Beiram, R., & Ojha, S. (2021). Neuroprotective Potential of Limonene and Limonene Containing Natural Products. Molecules, 26(15), 4535. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26154535

Further reading

The most common terpenes to relieve anxiety

Nausea-relieving effects of terpenes

All about CBN, this pain-relieving minor cannabinoid

Best hybrid weed with antinociceptive effects

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?

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