Essential oils have become a mainstream product that a majority of us may have heard about recently. Typical consumers may have walked past the heavenly smells flowing out of diffusers as they venture past stores or heard about the amazing natural healing and stress-reducing properties that seems to be a great alternative to pharmaceuticals. Medicinal use of essential oils, including cannabis essential oils, dates back to ancient times. We are seeing a surge of interest for cannabis essential oil use due to the health benefits of the plant.
You may have heard of lavender and peppermint oils, but what is cannabis essential oil? What are the health benefits and their uses?
Cannabis Essential Oil Benefits
Essential oils can be made through distillation, expression, or solvents.
Essential oils are not oils but rather the essence or extract of plants. However, they are also unable to dilute in water. Volatile means the liquid is easily evaporated at typical temperatures. CBD and THC are not present after distillation. Hence, there are no psychoactive effects, unlike CBD oil, from using cannabis essential oils.
Cannabis essential oils, like many other essential oils, can be used topically by diluting drops in a carrier oil. This prevents burns and sensitivities as the drops are extremely potent. Carrier oils recommended include coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, and many more.
The main health benefits are a direct result from the terpenes found in cannabis essential oils. Terpenes are organic compounds that are responsible for the aroma and flavour in cannabis. Some of the top beneficial terpenes found in marijuana are limonene, myrcene, Linalool, and beta-caryophyllene.
Myrcene: Smells like musk and cloves with a hint of citrus. Anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antioxidant, anti-carcinogen and sedative properties. Also helps with muscle tension and sleep problems.
Beta-caryophyllene: Woody and peppery flavoured. Anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory properties. Helps to reduce alcohol cravings and anxiety.
Humulene: Earthy, woody aroma with a hint of spice. Anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and suppresses hunger.
Limonene: Fruity and citrus scents. Antifungal and antibacterial properties. Helps to reduce stress and elevate mood. Assists in the absorption of other terpenes and chemicals via the skin, mucous membranes, and digestive tract.
Linalool: Floral and citrus scents. Anti-microbial properties. Helps with reducing anxiety and fighting stress. Recent studies show promise in treating Alzheimer’s.
