The Best Terpenes for Pain

The Best Terpenes for Pain

Many diseases, injuries, and life may cause severe or persistent pain. Terpenes are a popular natural health supplement for those seeking a natural solution.

Cannabis, in particular, contains naturally occurring chemicals that have been shown to help treat pain. That’s why, in this article, we will discuss terpenes, how they help treat pain, and which ones work best.

What Are Terpenes?


Terpenes are biochemicals which are responsible for the taste and smell of the plants. It is found commonly in fruits, herbs, and in marijuana plants in particular. What you get when you take a whiff of the fresh air in a forest or the sharp scent of lemon you are terming terpenes.

Such compounds are not mere fragrances either, as it would seem at first sight. There, too, it has been found that terpenes serve in crop defense as well as in the promotion of pollination. But that is not all that comes with it.

To humans, terpenes possess some medicinal qualities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and even analgesic qualities.

How Do Terpenes Help Reduce Pain?


Terpenes affect the endocannabinoid system, which controls pain and mood. Cannabinoids, cannabis chemicals, activate ECS receptors.

Terpenes reduce inflammation, which causes pain, by binding to these receptors. They may also modify pain sensitivity by modulating brain chemicals. Pain is often a symptom of an underlying condition; terpenes do more than just provide a cover – they treat this in its root.

Best Terpenes for Pain Relief


Knowing this, let’s examine some of the best Terpenes for pain. Each has a different profile and offers different benefits; therefore, if you want pain relief, it is crucial to identify which is beneficial.

1. Beta-Caryophyllene


Black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon contain spicy, peppery beta-caryophyllene. Its direct interaction with the ECS, especially CB2 receptors that reduce inflammation and pain, makes it distinctive. This makes it a formidable alternative for chronic pain, including arthritis.

2. Limonene


Limonene, found in citrus rinds, provides a fresh, lemony fragrance. For its anti-inflammatory and mood-boosting effects. For stress and anxiety-related discomfort, limonene may decrease inflammation and boost well-being.

3. Linalool


Lavender, mint, and coriander contain floral-scented linalool. Though famous for soothing, it also relieves pain. Linalool reduces pain by decreasing nervous system pain signals and functioning synergistically with opioids.

4. Myrcene


One of the most frequent cannabis terpenes, myrcene smells earthy and musky. Its sedative properties may help pain sufferers sleep. THC is stronger with myrcene, making it a good painkiller for muscular spasms and stress.

5. Pinene


Pineene smells like pines. Pine needles, rosemary, and basil contain it. For patients with breathing-related discomfort or respiratory difficulties, pinene may reduce inflammation and expand the airways.

6. Humulene


Hops, basil, and cloves contain woody, earthy humulene. Anti-inflammatory characteristics make it a popular ingredient in natural pain and inflammation therapies. Humulene may relieve pain in fibromyalgia and arthritis by reducing inflammation.

7. Geraniol


Rose oil, geraniums, and lemons contain delicious, fragrant geraniol. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities have been researched for pain management. Geraniol reduces oxidative stress, which may cause chronic discomfort.

8. Borneo


Camphor-scented Borneol is utilized in traditional Chinese medicine. Cinnamon and wormwood contain it. Found to relieve pain and enhance drug absorption, Borneol is a helpful complement to any pain treatment routine.

9. Alpha-Bisabolol


Chamomile contains floral-scented alpha-bisabolol. Its calming properties make it popular in skincare products. Alpha-bisabolol reduces inflammation and calms sensitive tissues, relieving skin-related discomfort.

10. Terpinolene


Terpinolene has a rich citrus, pine, and floral scent. Though rarer than other terpenes, it relieves pain well. Terpinolene may help relieve pain-induced tension and relax due to its antioxidant and calming properties.

10 Marijuana Strains With Pain-Relieving Terpenes


Certain marijuana strains are particularly rich in these pain-relieving terpenes. Here are ten strains known for their therapeutic effects:

1. AC/DC


AC/DC is a balanced strain that’s rich in both CBD and terpenes like myrcene and pinene. It’s known for its calming effects, making it a great option for pain relief without a heavy high.

2. Blue Dream


Blue Dream is a popular sativa-dominant strain with a sweet, berry-like aroma. It contains myrcene and pinene, which help reduce pain and inflammation while promoting relaxation.

3. Bruce Banner


Bruce Banner is a powerful hybrid with high THC levels and a mix of terpenes like caryophyllene and limonene. It’s effective for strong pain relief, especially for those dealing with chronic pain.

4. Girl Scout Cookies


Girl Scout Cookies is an Indica-dominant strain that’s potent in linalool, myrcene, and caryophyllene. It’s known for providing deep relaxation and pain relief, and it’s perfect for evening use.

5. Harlequin


Harlequin is a Sativa-dominant strain with a high CBD content and terpenes like myrcene and caryophyllene. It’s ideal for daytime pain relief without overwhelming psychoactive effects.

6. Jack Herer


Jack Herer is a Sativa-dominant hybrid with a fresh, piney aroma. It’s rich in terpinolene and pinene, making it effective for reducing pain and promoting mental clarity.

7. LA Confidential


LA Confidential is an Indica-dominant strain known for its relaxing effects. It contains linalool and humulene, which help alleviate pain and stress, making it ideal for nighttime use.

8. Sour Diesel


Sour Diesel is a Sativa-dominant strain with a pungent, diesel-like aroma. It’s packed with limonene and myrcene, which are great for managing pain and boosting mood.

9. Super Lemon Haze


Super Lemon Haze is a Sativa-dominant strain with a zesty, citrus aroma. It’s high in limonene, making it effective for reducing pain and enhancing mood and energy.

10. White Widow


White Widow is a balanced hybrid that’s known for its potent effects. It contains terpenes like myrcene and caryophyllene, making it great for pain relief and relaxation.

Reduce Your Pain With CertaMD MMJ Cards


At CertaMD, we know how difficult it is to deal with pain on a daily basis. That is why we are committed to offering MMJ cards. Our cards will allow you to buy products that contain terpenes and have the ability to help you find relief without the use of drugs.

Applying for an MMJ card is quite easy. Give us a try today and experience the relief that terpenes can have on your pain relief regime. What you get when you take CertaMD is not just the ability to reduce and control pain but also a healthier and pain-free life.

Alana Seppelt

Important Medical Information & Disclaimers

Medical disclaimer

The information on this CertaMD page is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

All medical marijuana evaluations and recommendations through CertaMD are performed exclusively by licensed U.S. healthcare providers using secure telemedicine technology, in accordance with applicable state laws and regulations.

Always speak with a qualified physician or other licensed healthcare professional before making decisions about your health, changing existing medications, or starting any new treatment, including medical cannabis.

Source: FDA – Cannabis Research & Drug Approval Process

Individual results and treatment response

Medical cannabis does not work the same way for every patient. Symptom relief can depend on factors such as the type of product (THC/CBD ratio, route of administration), dose, frequency of use, underlying medical conditions, concurrent medications, and lifestyle variables like diet, stress, and sleep.

Because response and tolerability vary, ongoing follow-up with your CertaMD provider is important to review benefits, monitor side effects, and adjust your treatment plan safely over time.

Source: NIH – Therapeutic Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids

Possible risks and side effects

Like any therapeutic option, medical marijuana can cause side effects. Commonly reported effects include dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, red or irritated eyes, increased appetite, headache, and temporary problems with attention, concentration, or short-term memory.

Some patients, especially with higher-THC products, may experience anxiety, rapid heartbeat, worsened mood, or perceptual changes; in rare cases, serious effects such as psychosis, significant mood changes, heart rhythm disturbances, or cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (recurrent nausea and vomiting) have been reported. If you notice severe, unexpected, or persistent symptoms, stop using cannabis and contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care.

Source: Mayo Clinic – Marijuana: Safety and Side Effects

Legal and regulatory notice

Medical marijuana programs are created and regulated at the state level, and eligibility, product access, and telemedicine rules vary by jurisdiction. Under U.S. federal law, marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance, and clinicians typically “recommend” or “certify” medical cannabis use rather than prescribe it in the traditional sense.

Some states require an initial in-person visit before medical cannabis certification, while others allow both initial and renewal evaluations via telehealth; CertaMD operates within the specific requirements of each state it serves.

Sources: DEA – Controlled Substances Act

Telehealth.org – Cannabis Prescribing and Telehealth

Product quality, sourcing, and safety

For your safety, use only medical cannabis products obtained from licensed, state-regulated dispensaries that perform appropriate laboratory testing for potency and contaminants. Unregulated or illicit products may contain pesticides, heavy metals, microbes, or inaccurate THC/CBD concentrations, which can increase health risks and lead to unpredictable effects.

Ask your CertaMD clinician or dispensary pharmacist about product selection, dosing, onset and duration of effects, and how to store products safely away from children and pets.

Source: FDA – What to Know About Cannabis Products

Reporting adverse events and safety concerns

If you experience serious or unexpected side effects while using medical cannabis, contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency care when appropriate.

Patients and caregivers in the United States can also report adverse events and product problems to the FDA’s MedWatch program online or by phone at
1-800-FDA-1088, which helps regulators monitor safety trends and protect public health.

Source: FDA – MedWatch Safety & Adverse Event Reporting

See how much you could save with a medical card

Note that this is an estimate of savings and does not constitute a guarantee. Additional taxes in your area or recent changes in local laws may affect these rates. Please verify current regulations in your state.

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