Nerolidol is a subtle, sophisticated terpene with a woody, floral character and a hint of fresh bark or apple. It is found in some of the most beloved aromatic plants, from jasmine to ginger, and it is one of the terpenes responsible for the calm, refined side of a scent profile.

Where you find it in nature

Jasmine, tea tree, ginger, lemongrass, and citrus peel. Its presence in both jasmine and citrus is why it reads as floral and fresh at once.

Aroma and flavor

Woody and floral, with notes of fresh bark, apple, and citrus. It is soft and rounded, adding depth and a gentle floral lift rather than a sharp note.

What the research says

Nerolidol is one of the less-studied terpenes, but a few directions stand out. It has been explored for antifungal and antioxidant activity, and it is notable in the lab as a skin-penetration enhancer, meaning it can help other compounds absorb through skin. Russo's 2011 review in the British Journal of Pharmacology included nerolidol among the terpenoids discussed for their aromatic and potential complementary roles.

The honest note applies here especially, because the evidence base is thinner than for the major terpenes. What is clear is that nerolidol is a lovely, soft aroma compound. Claims beyond that get ahead of the research.

Nerolidol in the terpene world

Nerolidol is a sesquiterpene alcohol, in the same broad family as humulene and caryophyllene. It usually appears as a supporting terpene rather than a lead. Explore the full lineup in our Terpene Library.

Frequently asked questions

Does nerolidol get you high?

No. Nerolidol is an aroma compound found in jasmine and ginger, not a cannabinoid, and it does not produce a high. See do terpenes get you high.

What does nerolidol smell like?

Woody and floral with fresh bark, apple, and citrus notes.

Is nerolidol common in cannabis?

It usually appears as a minor or supporting terpene rather than a dominant one, contributing a soft, woody-floral depth.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References

1. Russo EB. Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology. 2011;163(7):1344-1364.