If you love weed as much as we do, you probably enjoy learning new things about it. And perhaps you’ve already heard about the myrcene terpene. Sometimes we forget that this incredible plant is made up of hundreds of compounds that work together to make the magic that is marijuana. But for this article, we want to focus on the question so many of us ask ourselves (especially when we’re stoned): What about weed gets us high? We know THC is the dominant psychoactive cannabinoid, but guess what, it’s not the only star.
Enter terpenes, the unassuming, unsung heroes of cannabis. And we’re here to talk about them with you, specifically myrcene–and it’s one incredible powerhouse of a compound. Read on and get buzzed on the wonders of myrcene.
Terpenes: The Language of Plants
Terpenes are aromatic molecules found in plants that give them their unique flavors and aromas. In the cannabis plant, terpenes work together with cannabinoids to produce a wide range of effects. The myrcene terpene is found in many strains of cannabis.
Think of terpenes as the love language of the cannabis plant. These volatile compounds work alongside cannabinoids to produce each strain’s unique effects. But that’s not all they do, as terpenes are also responsible for each strain’s weed smell and taste. Most strains will have one or two dominant terpenes, but several may work in harmony together to create this synergistic phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
The specific combination of terpenes and cannabinoids is like the blueprint for what we can expect to feel from smoking it. Or, if you’re into music, it’s like perfect vocal harmony coming together at just the right pitch. In fact, cannabis loves music, making it an audiophile of the plant kingdom. Some say they prefer certain sounds like jazz, classical music, or far-out electrical tunes made from keyboards and synthesizers. All musical tastes aside, we like to think of terpenes and cannabinoids colliding to create a masterpiece of the highest order–one that’s meant to be loved and shared by everyone.
What is the Myrcene Terpene?
Myrcene is pronounced [mur-seen] or [myr-seen]. Both are acceptable ways to say the name of this dominant and delightful terpene. Myrcene is the most prevalent terpene found in cannabis, and it shows up frequently in many strains you may recognize and enjoy.
Myrcene terpene is commonly found in many plants, including hops, mangoes, bay leaves, and thyme. In cannabis, myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes and is responsible for the plant’s earthy, musky aroma. Myrcene is also believed to have sedative properties and is often used for its relaxing effects.
What Does Myrcene Smell Like?
Myrcene has a pungent, earthy aroma that is often described as similar to cloves. It is one of the most abundant terpenes in the cannabis plant and is responsible for the plant’s characteristic musky smell. Some strains with a high myrcene terpene profile may also have hints of fruit or spice in their aroma.
What Does Myrcene Taste Like?
Myrcene has a slightly sweet and fruity taste that is often described as similar to ripe mangoes. It is a popular terpene in the production of many tropical fruits, including mangoes, which also have high levels of myrcene. In cannabis strains with a high myrcene terpene profile, this sweet and fruity taste can be detected alongside other flavors. The next time you are tasting cannabis, see if you spot this earthy terp!
What Plants and Herbs Contain Myrcene
Myrcene is not unique to cannabis and can be found in many plants and herbs. It is particularly abundant in hops, which are used to flavor and preserve beer. Myrcene can also be found in bay leaves, thyme, and lemongrass. Some fruits, such as mangoes and guavas, also contain myrcene in high concentrations.
Strains with High Myrcene Terpene Profile
Myrcene is found in heavier percentages in indica strains, but it still shows up in plenty of sativas alongside other dominant terpenes.
- OG Kush
- Northern Lights
- Green Crack
- Pineapple
- Orange Crush
- Sour Tsunami
- Fruit Punch
- Cotton Candy
- Kosher Kush
- Grape OG
- Honey Badger Haze
- Grandaddy Purple
- Maui Wowie
- Strawberry Durban Diesel
- Bruce Banner
- Peppermint Pie
- Strawberry Cough
- Lemon Haze
- Mango
- 9 lb Hammer
- SFV OG
Some well-known heavy hitters are on this list, so be prepared for a potent puff. Whether you enjoy sativa or indica, you’ll have no trouble finding a myrcene-rich strain that will have you smiling with bliss.
Myrcene Effects and Benefits
The mighty myrcene terpene offers plenty of benefits to keep you coming back for more. And because it is so prevalent, some pretty great studies are backing its potent powers.
Myrcene for Sleep
One of the most well-known effects of myrcene is its ability to act as a sedative. This terpene is often found in indica strains of cannabis, which are known for their calming and relaxing effects. Myrcene terpene has been shown to have a synergistic effect with other compounds in cannabis, including THC and CBD, which can enhance its sedative properties.
Myrcene for Inflammation
Myrcene has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a common cause of many health conditions, including chronic pain, arthritis, and even some cancers. Myrcene has been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of cytokines, which are proteins that can trigger inflammation in the body. This makes myrcene a potentially powerful tool in the treatment of a range of inflammatory conditions.
Myrcene for Pain Relief
In addition to its sedative and anti-inflammatory effects, myrcene has also been found to have analgesic properties. This means that it can help to reduce pain in the body. Myrcene achieves this effect by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating pain sensation.
Myrcene as an Antibacterial Agent
Finally, myrcene has been found to have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which means that it can help to fight off harmful bacteria and other pathogens in the body. This makes it a potentially valuable compound in the treatment of infections and other microbial-related conditions.
Have a Little Myrcene Any Time You Like
Overall, the effects of myrcene make it a compound with significant potential in the medical and wellness fields. While more research is needed to fully understand the range of benefits that myrcene can offer, it is clear that this terpene is a powerful tool in the treatment of a range of health conditions. Whether used in conjunction with other compounds in cannabis or on its own, myrcene is a compound that holds significant promise for improving health and well-being.
Not only that, but the myrcene terpene is quite tasty, and smoking a little weed is a great way to gain its wonderful benefits. But myrcene also got us thinking about other ways to harness and share its lively powers–particularly, its feel-good scent. So we created our very own myrcene Terpene Air Fresheners, which you can grab for $4.20 at Old Pal Provisions. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can throw in pinene and limonene air fresheners for a terpene trio that’s just $9.
What better way to enjoy terpenes anytime you’d like?
If you enjoyed learning about the myrcene terpene, check out our articles on limonene, terpinolene, and pinene. Each of these fantastic terpenes has much to offer, and we know you’ll love them just as much as myrcene.
