Looking for information on the myrcene terpene? You’re in the right place!
Terpenes are the compounds in cannabis and other plants that give them their unique scent. Different cannabis strains have varying quantities of terpenes, which is why they smell and taste different.
The most frequently encountered terpene in cannabis is myrcene. According to Swiss research, myrcene makes up as much as 65% of the total terpene content in cannabis.
Myrcene terpene is present in a variety of plants, including hops, mangoes, lemongrass, basil, cardamom, bay, and black pepper. Keep reading to learn more about this terp, what it does, and answers to the most frequently asked related questions.
What Is Myrcene?
Myrcene (β-myrcene) is a monoterpene that has an acyclic structure.
Monoterpenes are the smallest type of terpenes, which makes them evaporate at low temperatures. Its acyclic structure means the arrangement of atoms and the chemical bonds that hold the atoms together isn’t arranged in ring structure like many other terpenes.
For its wide range of health benefits, myrcene is sometimes referred to as the “mother of all terpenes.” The name myrcene comes from a Brazilian shrub called Myrcia sphaerocarpa, which was known for its uses in medicine.
Myrcene-rich strains are frequently said to have a spicy, earthy, or musky flavor. Some people detect a balsam note in the terpene, while others compare it to clove or musk with sweet undertones.
Myrcene Terpene Effects
Other than working with cannabinoids in an entourage effect, myrcene terpene has been used for many therapeutic purposes.
Myrcene has been used to help improve sleep. Cannabis strains high in myrcene tend to have a sedating or “couch lock” effect.
It may decrease pain and inflammation. It has the ability to reduce tension, relieve anxiety and depression while also enhancing immunity. Anti-tumor activity is another possible benefit.
Another advantage of myrcene terpene is that it may help protect against UV light and premature aging, according to research published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine.
Myrcene Terpene FAQ
What does the myrcene terpene do?
The myrcene terpene works with cannabinoids in cannabis to form an entourage effect, which may assist those suffering from insomnia, chronic pain, inflammation, depression, and anxiety. It may have antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic, and sedative effects as well as muscle-relaxing effects.
Does myrcene get you high?
Myrcene does not cause a high on its own, but it works in tandem with THC to create an intense high. It helps transport cannabinoids across the blood-brain barrier and enhances transdermal absorption.
Is myrcene a sedative?
Myrcene has a sedative effect and is characterized as having the “couch-lock” and muscular relaxing properties. It may also aid in the quality of your sleep.
Is myrcene good for anxiety?
Myrcene has been reported to help with anxiety and sleeplessness. When you’re anxious, it has sedative effects that may help relax and soothe you. What makes this terpene unique, however, is its synergy with THC. The combination of myrcene and THC might also help you relax and sleep well.
What strain has the most myrcene?
The myrcene-rich cannabis strains will have an earthy, musky, clove-like scent and flavor. OG Kush, Jillybean, Blue Dream, Purple Urkle, Grape Ape, Granddaddy Purple, Tangie, Harlequin are some of them.
Concluding on Myrcene Terpene
Myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis. It has a spicy, earthy, or musky flavor with sweet undertones. Myrcene terpene is not known to cause a high on its own. But it interacts synergistically with cannabinoids to improve both therapeutic effects and psychoactive properties.
Anyone looking for a hypnotic and relaxing effect, myrcene-rich cannabis strains will do the trick. If you’re looking to increase the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids, ask for myrcene-rich marijuana strains at the dispensary next time you get your medical or recreational weed.
