Most people enjoy their cannabis by smoking, vaping, or taking an edible. Why not try using your other senses? Now, there are proven benefits from smelling cannabis — specifically inhaling the plant’s aromatic and flavorful terpenes. Let’s explore the benefits of cannabis aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy is the ancient practice of healing with the scents of essential oil — Terpenes being the primary ingredient in essential oils. In addition, the olfactory system and parts of the brain that respond to scent are rich in natural cannabinoid receptors. CBD aromatherapy is starting to become a new trend by combining essential oils with CBD, used topically, in a diffuser, or other ways that have provided natural ways to cope with stress, anxiety, or just a long restless day.
To illustrate cannabis aromatherapy, here are some of the more common terpenoids found in cannabis are also found elsewhere:
| Terpenoid | Found in |
| Linalool | lavender |
| a-Pinene | pine |
| Limonene | lemon |
| Phytol | green tea |
| Caryophyllene Oxide | lemon balm |
| b-Caryophyllene | pepper |
| Nerolidol | orange |
Unique terpene concentration in each plant creates the distinct aroma of cannabis. When inhaled, the terpenes bind to certain cannabinoid receptors in the brain. Basically, by binding with these receptors, the terpenes can affect mood and behaviour.
The cannabis plant produces more than 200 terpenes or essential oils, and each adds a different note to the aroma. The buds, flowers, or fruit of the plant are usually the most fragrant. The aroma of cannabis can vary from sweet and mellow to deep and musky.
Best ways to use Cannabis Aromatherapy
Cannabis oils are great for aromatherapy like any other essential oil, either used alone or to enhance certain aspects of your medical cannabis. There are several ways to use cannabis oil for aromatherapy, including:
- Steaming. Add a couple of drops to a humidifier and inhale the steam. A cool humidifier is best for this. Inhaling warm steam can be therapeutic, but if it’s too hot you could burn your nasal passages.
- Massaging. Using cannabis oil for massage will increase your opportunity to inhale the terpenes and relax. When using cannabis oil topically, it should be diluted with another oil. Mix a few drops of cannabis oil into your massage oil before applying. The aromatherapy will linger on your skin even after the massage.
- Spraying. You can buy cannabis oil in a spray bottle and use it to create your own aromatherapy tools. Also, you may spray it on a cache to carry with you for stress relief or on a pillowcase for a relaxing nap.
- Diffusing. Put a few drops of cannabis oil on your diffuser and you can create a stress-free zone in your home. If you use an invigorating strain of cannabis, the oil will give you a lift whenever you smell it.
Thus, cannabis aromatherapy is effective for certain conditions. It doesn’t have the full medicinal properties of cannabis, but it can relax or energize you. It can also enhance the effects of your medical marijuana.
Aromatherapy experts warn that essential oils of all kinds can be toxic when ingested. The essential oil itself and the carrier oil can also cause allergic reactions and skin irritation, so start with small amounts. This includes oils with cannabis compounds, which are often much more concentrated than other products that contain cannabis are. Once you figure out what works best for you, enjoy the relaxing benefits!