Nerolidol, or trans-nerolidol, is a terpene found in many strong aromatic plants such as jasmine, tea tree, and lemongrass, and it can also be found in some cannabis strains. It’s known for a nuanced floral aroma with notes of citrus, apples, and rose, and is often used as a fragrance or food additive. Researchers have also found evidence that nerolidol has sedative, anti-anxiety, antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, anti-oxidant, and pain-relieving properties, and may be an insect repellent.
“The nerolidol in this strain is calming me down.”
“Nerolidol has a strong floral scent.”
What is nerolidol used for?
Nerolidol is often used as a fragrance in perfumes, shampoos, cleansers, and detergents. Nerolidol is also permitted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use as a food flavoring agent and it is widely used for that purpose.
Therapeutically, nerolidol is known for its sedative effects. There is also evidence it can enhance drug delivery through the skin, with some studies showing specific enhancements to the body’s absorption of two other terpenes, citronellol and eugenol.
Some evidence also points to nerolidol’s ability to calm anxiety. One study found it is the terpene most associated with cannabis strains rated high for reducing anxiety, suggesting it may play a role in cannabis’ calming abilities.
Researchers have also found evidence that nerolidol has antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, anti-oxidant, and pain-relieving properties.
Additionally, many plants naturally produce nerolidol as a main component of their essential oil in order to help deter pests from consuming them.
How to use nerolidol
To enjoy nerolidol in your cannabis, look for products with higher levels of it on their lab tests. Strains usually high in nerolidol are Island Sweet Skunk, Jack Herer, and Skywalker OG.
As it can also be absorbed through the skin and enhance the uptake of other beneficial terpenes, you may want to try a topical infused with cannabis strains high in nerolidol or with added nerolidol.