What’s that sophisticated, rose-like scent you may notice in some cannabis strains? That could be citronellol, a subtle and floral terpene that gives plants like lemongrass and geraniums their calming aromas. But, how does it affect cannabis? In this guide, we’ll explore how to access this unique compound and its potential mood-balancing effects.
Citronellol at a Glance: You’ll find this rose-scented and complex terpene in cannabis, roses, geraniums, and citronella, among other sources. And as research is uncovering, its naturally calming and mood-balancing qualities add something special to many cannabis strains and products.
What Is Citronellol?
Citronellol is a terpene, a member of the family of aromatic compounds that give different cannabis strains (and countless other natural products) their characteristic scents. Like other terpenes, citronellol shapes the overall cannabis experience, but unlike more assertive terpenes, such as myrcene and limonene, it plays a supporting role, adding a floral nuance that softens and deepens those primary scents.
What is citronellol derived from in nature? Outside of cannabis, citronellol is found in roses, geraniums, lemongrass, citronella grass, and other enticing sources.
What Does Citronellol Do?
To understand what citronellol does, it helps to look briefly at its structure. Citronellol is classified as a monoterpene alcohol, meaning it’s built from two isoprene units and contains an alcohol functional group. This structure contributes to its floral aroma and its ability to evaporate easily, which is why its scent is so noticeable.
Unlike cannabinoids, citronellol does not bind directly to CB1 or CB2 receptors. Instead, it’s believed to influence the overall cannabis experience through the entourage effect, interacting with compounds like THC and CBD to subtly shape how their effects are perceived.
Citronellol Effects and Potential Benefits: What The Research Shows
Like other terpenes, citronellol is much more than just a pretty scent. The most commonly reported effects of citronellol include calming without sedation, mood balance, and gentle stress relief. Let’s explore them one by one:
- Mood support and stress reduction: Studies suggest citronellol may have a harmonizing effect, helping us find balance and reduce stress.
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties: Like many other terpenes, citronellol may reduce inflammation and act as an antioxidant, both of which help protect our cells from damage.
- Skin-soothing qualities: Seeking clearer skin the natural way? Studies suggest citronellol may support healthy skin.
- Potential antimicrobial effects: Citronellol appears to have potent antimicrobial activity, providing protection against harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Listeria.
Going back to the entourage effect, while research on the mechanics of the entourage effect is ongoing, there’s no doubt that citronellol terpene is a major constituent in the overall experience of cannabis. It softens sharper terpenes like pinene or limonene, and balances heavier, sedative ones such as myrcene and caryophyllene.
What does this mean for consumers? If you love a gentle evening wind-down without couch-lock—or subtle creative relaxation and mood elevation without jitters—there’s a good chance citronellol is your cup of tea. On that note, while the terpene is generally regarded as safe, in rare instances, some people may be sensitive or allergic to it and thus may choose to avoid it.
What Does Citronellol Smell and Taste Like?
Do you love the scents of rose gardens, geranium leaves, lemongrass tea, and citronella candles? Floral and mysterious, brightened with subtle aromas of citrus fruits and fresh greenery, the citronellol smell has a subtly enveloping quality.
Together, these sensory traits make it ideal for balancing louder, more pungent terpenes (think myrcene or caryophyllene here). On the tongue, the citronellol terpene presents as delicate and slightly sweet, with a clean floral finish you may recognize from lemongrass.
Where to Find Citronellol-Rich Cannabis Products
Citronellol is somewhat rare in cannabis plants, making it a specialty addition to cannabis-based formulations. In the wild, you’ll find it in Amnesia Haze, Great White Shark, and the aptly named Citronella strains.
Here at URB, we use this alluring terpene as part of a natural synergy. You’ll feel it in our Red Eye Skybites, where it adds subtle uplift to a high-altitude ride, and in Take Off Skybites, where it helps you soar above distractions and holdups. It’s a partnership between simple ingredients, natural compounds, and consistent effects.
Instead of fuzzy indica or sativa labels, our products are organized by effects like Clarity, Energy, Create, and Uplift, allowing you to choose based on your desired experience. Of course, all URB’s products are formulated deliver consistent, effect-driven experiences. If you’re curious about their exact terpene content, check our Certificates of Analysis (COAs). Generated by verified third-party testing, they’re your guarantee of quality, transparency, and purity.
Discover the Floral Side of Cannabis With URB
Floral, sophisticated, and with a subtle mood-balancing effect, citronellol is a vital player in the cannabis world. Want to takeoff with more terpene knowledge? Check out our beginner’s guide to cannabis terpenes, or check out the blog for deep dives on the terps we use in our formulations.
If you’re seeking a more balanced and intentional cannabis experience, explore URB's citronellol-forward collection. And if you love exceptional cannabis and hemp products, join the URB Mileage Loyalty Program and start saving from the very first purchase.
Citronellol Terpene FAQs
Is citronellol natural or synthetic?
Citronellol is a naturally occurring terpene found in numerous plants. However, it can also be produced synthetically in laboratories for use in fragrances, cosmetics, and flavoring applications. In cannabis, citronellol is naturally derived from the plant’s terpene profile rather than artificially added.
Where is citronellol found in nature?
Outside the cannabis world, the citronellol terpene appears in roses, geraniums, lemongrass, citronella grass, and other enticingly aromatic sources.
What does citronellol do?
Besides that alluring citronellol smell, the terpene is associated with a number of potential benefits, including calming without sedation, mood balance, and gentle stress relief.
Which strains are high in citronellol?
Some natural sources of citronellol in cannabis strains include Grapefruit Kush, Great White Shark, Amnesia Haze, and Island Sweet Skunk.
Is citronellol the same as citronella?
No. The citronellol terpene is a specific natural compound, while citronella is a complex essential oil extracted from lemongrass that contains over 80 components, including citronellol, citronellal, and geraniol.
