CannaScience - Geraniol

This month we will discuss the primary and secondary terpenes of cannabis, with a focus on Geraniol. Geraniol is a terpene found in over 200 plus different cannabis cultivars. While it is most commonly associated with geraniums, it is also found in other flowers such as palmarosa and roses, as well as fruits and vegetables like peaches, lemons, and blackberries.

Geraniol is known for its delicate scent, and it has similar qualities to Linalool, which was discussed in last month's column. If you're looking for Geraniol-rich cannabis cultivars, look for rich products in Linalool. This tends to correlate with higher levels of Geraniol in general.

Geraniol is not only a flavorful oil that contributes to the aroma of cannabis but also has significant therapeutic potential for numerous conditions. Potential medical benefits attributed to Geraniol include its antioxidant, anti-tumor, neuroprotectant, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, and anti-spasmodic properties, as well as its ability to relieve pain.

A 2016 study published in The Journal of Cancer Medicine showed that Geraniol was able to inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells by altering the expression of master genes involved in cell proliferation. This prevented cancer cells from spreading to other parts of the body.

Geraniol is a valuable terpene that offers numerous therapeutic benefits. Its presence in cannabis makes it a promising candidate for treating various conditions, and its delicate scent adds to the flavorful aroma of cannabis. Researchers have examined the benefits of Geranium essential oil in several human and animal studies. And have found it to be very helpful in a number of dis-ease and dis-aliments.

Patients suffering from these ailments have all found aid in the Geraniol terpene:

Edema

Menopause Perimenopause

Stress

Anxiety

Depression

Allergies

Shingles Pain

Diabetes

Hyperglycemia

Cannabis cultivars are known to contain high levels of Geraniol:

Lavender

Amnesia Haze

Great White Shark

Afghani

Headband

Island Sweet Skunk

OG Shark

Master Kush

Remember, the levels of terpenes in a particular cultivar can vary depending on various factors such as the growing conditions, harvesting time, and processing methods. So, it's always a good idea to ask for a certificate of analysis (COA) from your dispensary to confirm the terpene profile of a particular cultivar.

Dr. Pepper Hernandez, ND Ph.D. is Dual Board Certified Holistic Health Professional. Multiple Award winning Naturopathic Nutritionist, Cannabis Therapy Consultant & Founder and Education Director of Cannabis Holistic Institute. To find out more about her private practice, educational programs, videos and other offerings you can find her on the massive interwebs, social platforms or drpepperhernandez.com. Go forth, Go Cannabis