Myrcene Terpene: Learn the Soothing Secrets Here

Myrcene, mother of all terpenes, where would we be without you? If one terpene were to rule them all, myrcene would head the throne. This terpene dominates the cannabis species. In fact, it’s the most abundant terpene in modern hemp strains.

Though, myrcene does far more than add delicious flavors to CBD products. This terpene also provides extraordinary soothing benefits. Found in a variety of plants, myrcene is known to reduce swelling, promote sleep, and ease soreness. Let’s learn about the myrcene terpene!

What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are fragrant compounds that plants produce to repel predators and lure pollinators. These pungent components give plants their distinctive scent. When you smell natural pine, lavender, or orange fragrances, you’re smelling the terpenes those plants emit.

Over 20,000 different terpenes have been identified, and hundreds exist in the cannabis species alone! Cannabis plants contain high amounts of terpenes, which is why flowers have such a powerful smell. 

Genetic and environmental conditions give each cannabis strain a unique terpene profile. Factors like climate, soil, fertilizer, genes, and age influence terpene production. That’s why your favorite flower has a scent, flavor, and feeling all its own – plenty of careful choices went into cultivating that perfect bud.

What’s in a Terpene?

Terpenes are hydrocarbons, meaning they’re composed solely of hydrogen and carbon atoms. These molecules are structured in isoprene units, which link to form chains. Different terpenes have different numbers of isoprene units. 

What is Myrcene?

Myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis plants; some call it “the mother of all terpenes.” Given its abundance in cannabis, it’s no surprise that it supplies many of the plant’s pleasant effects. It has beneficial properties that can alleviate tension and promote natural sleep. People have used myrcene-rich plants for centuries to promote wellness because they recognized these benefits.

In technical terms, this is classified as a monoterpene. Monoterpenes contain only two isoprene units. This basic structure allows other isoprene units to link onto myrcene and form new chains. Through this process, other terpenes are created from it. In summary, myrcene is also a precursor to other terpenes.

Where is Myrcene Found?

The cannabis plant is a significant source of myrcene! This abundant terpene can account for as much as 50% of a strain’s terpene profile. Other natural sources include mangos, hops, lemongrass, basil, laurel leaves, and thyme. These substances all have roots in Chinese and South American folk medicine. 

What Do Myrcene Terpenes Smell & Taste Like?

Considering how common this terpene is, chances are you’ve smelled and tasted myrcene before. You certainly don’t need to be a cannabis consumer to be familiar with this aromatic terpene. If you’ve ever had Thai food or beer, you’ve enjoyed myrcene’s smells and tastes.

Myrcene’s signature scent is musky and earth-like, similar to the smell of cloves. It’s a pungent aroma that bursts out of a freshly opened jar of bud. Myrcene produces that “dank” smell in hemp buds and that deliciously earthy smell in mangos. 

This versatile terpene also has a sweet, fruity flavor. You can detect notes of it in your favorite cannabis strains like Gorilla Glue. Myrcene blends well with other flavor notes, so you’ll find it in sour, spicy, and sweet-tasting strains.

Fun fact! Breweries consider myrcene levels when crafting ales because of the spicy aroma it adds to the brew. Hops, a fundamental ingredient in beer, are naturally high in myrcene.

What Are the Effects of Myrcene?

Among cannabis consumers, myrcene is known for its sedative properties. This restfulness is not the “couch-lock” that marijuana strains can induce. Instead, it’s a full-body feeling of relaxation and tranquility. You won’t feel fatigued or groggy from a CBD strain containing this terpene (or any CBD strains). 

Myrcene also promotes calming feelings that can put both your physical and mental anguish at ease. Loosen those tight muscles and experience mental clarity with this tasty terpene.

Curbs Swelling

People have used herbs with myrcene for centuries to soothe gastric and respiratory discomfort. What do these problems have in common? Swelling and irritation! It could be a coincidence, but research has repeatedly demonstrated this terpene’s soothing abilities.

Reduces Soreness

Myrcene’s beneficial effects first came to light in 1990 when a study examined the terpene’s effect on mice. Anyone who’s ever consumed CBD or lemongrass tea has likely experienced similar relaxed feelings.

Can Promote Sleep

It probably comes as no surprise that this terpene may help you get some Zzzs in. The terpene has a reputation for gently helping people get to sleep. Many who have experienced restless nights have turned to this terpene for assistance.

Entourage Effect

Terpenes matter when it comes to achieving the best cannabis experience! All the compounds derived from hemp, including terpenes and CBD, work synergistically to enhance the overall effects. The result of this teamwork is the grand entourage effect.

Popular Strains That Have Myrcene

Myrcene is like the social butterfly that can get along with anyone — you’ll find it in countless CBD strains. Here are some of Cheef Botanicals’ tried and true myrcene-rich flower strains that exceed expectations:

• Hawaiian Haze 
• Lifter
• Sour Space Candy
• Sour Diesel
• Durban Diesel
• Special Sauce
• Skywalker OG
• OG Kush
• Ceiba Fox 
• Bubba Kush

Other popular cannabis strains that contain this terpene are:

• Blue Dream
• Granddaddy Purple
• Grape Ape

The Sativa/Indica Myth

You might hear some people say that myrcene levels determine whether a hemp strain is Sativa or Indica. We’re not sure who started this myth, but the fact is that it’s simply untrue. Myrcene does not play a significant role in whether a strain is Sativa or Indica.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to flavor, fragrance, and feel, it’s hard to beat myrcene. It’s about time we give credit where credit is due because if it weren’t for this terpene, your flower wouldn’t have the same great flavors, aromas, or effects. Terpenes play an enormous role in your cannabis experience, so we recommend you keep an eye out for myrcene!