What is Myrcene? All About the Cannabis Terpene
Cannabis is a complex plant with a rich chemical profile that includes a variety of compounds, each contributing to its unique effects and characteristics. One group of compounds that plays a significant role in the aroma, flavor, and potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis is terpenes.
Terpenes are aromatic molecules found in various plants, including cannabis, responsible for the diverse range of scents and flavors in different strains. Myrcene is one such terpene that is commonly found in cannabis strains and is known for its distinctive aroma and health benefits.
Where Does Myrcene Come From?
Myrcene is a naturally occurring terpene that can be found in numerous plants besides cannabis, including hops, bay leaves, thyme, and lemongrass. However, it's especially abundant in certain cannabis strains, making it a key player in the plant's overall profile.
Myrcene gets its name from the Myrcia genus of plants, where it was first discovered. In cannabis, this terpene is primarily produced in the plant's trichomes, which are tiny, resinous structures covering the buds and leaves.
Trichomes are not only responsible for producing myrcene but also various other cannabinoids and terpenes, making them crucial to the overall quality and potency of cannabis.
What Does Myrcene Smell Like?
One of the most distinct characteristics of myrcene is its aroma. This terpene is often described as having an earthy, musky scent with hints of cloves. Some people also note a fruity undertone, which can resemble the aroma of ripe mangoes.
When myrcene is the dominant terpene in a strain, it tends to impart a musky, earthy aroma, sometimes with a spicy or herbal note. This aroma profile is commonly associated with indica strains, known for their relaxing and sedating effects.
Myrcene is also found in higher concentrations in strains with more tropical or fruity scents, such as mango or citrus. The harmony between myrcene and other terpenes in these strains can create a delightful bouquet of aromas, contributing to a strain's overall appeal.
What Does Myrcene Taste Like?
While myrcene's aroma is a key factor in its appeal, its taste is equally noteworthy. Myrcene's flavor can vary depending on the specific strain and its terpene profile, but it often complements the strain's aroma.
In strains with myrcene as a dominant terpene, you can expect a flavor profile that mirrors its musky, earthy aroma. These strains tend to have a herbal, slightly spicy taste that can be quite pleasant.
On the other hand, in strains where myrcene is a supporting terpene, its flavor may take a backseat to other dominant terpenes, such as limonene or pinene. In such cases, myrcene may add subtle undertones of earthiness and muskiness to the overall taste experience.
Myrcene Terpene Benefits
Beyond its aromatic and gustatory contributions to cannabis, myrcene offers various potential benefits. These benefits include:
- Soothing and Relaxing Effects: Myrcene is often associated with sedative and relaxing effects. Myrcene-rich strains can help ease stress, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality. This terpene is particularly cherished by individuals seeking relief from anxiety and insomnia.
- Pain Relief: Myrcene possesses analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. This makes it a valuable addition to strains used for managing chronic pain conditions.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Myrcene has anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to its ability to relieve various inflammatory conditions.
- Enhanced Cannabinoid Absorption: Myrcene is believed to improve the absorption of cannabinoids like THC. This phenomenon, known as the "entourage effect," highlights the connection between different cannabis compounds.
- Antioxidant: Myrcene has antioxidant properties that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This potential antioxidant effect is vital for overall health and well-being.
These benefits may be felt in strains high in this cannabis terpene, though more research is needed to confirm them.
Top 5 Myrcene-Dominant Strains to Try
Here are five outstanding cannabis strains that boast a high myrcene content. These strains offer diverse experiences, catering to various preferences and needs.
1. B52 Bomber
B52 Bomber is a potent indica strain high in myrcene, created by crossing Durban Poison with Blue Dream. The strain delivers a relaxing and soothing experience, compounded with uplifting benefits. Its aroma is earthy and musky, with hints of berry and anise. B52 Bomber is an excellent choice for those seeking stress relief and relaxation.
2. Boston Cream
Notes of diesel, cream, and lemon ooze from strain Boston Cream. These dense, potent nugs are preferred by many for their stress-relieving and relaxing effects. This cross of Headband and CDLC is high in myrcene, contributing to its soothing and euphoric properties. Its terpene profile gives it a creamy, sweet aroma, making it a favorite among those looking for a mellow and enjoyable experience.
3. Grape Cream Cake
Grape Cream Cake is a hybrid strain created by crossing Grape Pie and Wedding Cake, resulting in a delectable combination of flavors and effects. The strain is rich in myrcene, making it an excellent choice for relaxation and pain relief. The myrcene in Grape Cream Cake complements its fruity and creamy aroma, creating a well-rounded cannabis experience.
4. Strawberry Guava
Strawberry Guava is a hybrid strain crafted from the fusion of Strawberry Banana and Papaya, resulting in a tropical delight. This strain packs a substantial myrcene punch with relaxing, anti-anxiety benefits. The terpene combination in Strawberry Guava produces a sweet and tropical scent reminiscent of its namesake fruits.
5. Honey Bunny
A tasty twist of Honey Banana x Tropicana Cookies create the beautiful but balanced Honey Bunny strain. A reliable daytime hybrid, Honey Bunny can offer pain relief and relaxation without slipping you into a sedative state, thanks to terpenes myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene. Expect notes of tropical citrus and cloves to coat your palate and delight your senses. This cultivar will leave you feeling sweet as Honey…Bunny.
Find Myrcene-Rich Strains at MÜV
Understanding terpenes and their effects can help you choose strains that align with your preferences and needs. Myrcene is one fascinating terpene that not only contributes to the aroma and flavor of cannabis but also offers potential therapeutic benefits.
Are you interested in trying myrcene-rich strains or exploring other terpene profiles? Look no further than your local MÜV, where we provide only high-quality cannabis products, including strains rich in myrcene and other terpenes. Shop at your local MÜV Dispensary today to find the perfect cannabis strains for you.
Content Manager for MÜV Florida and Contributor for Zen Leaf Dispensaries. A cannabis connoisseur with a passion for explaining the miraculous possibility of the plant, Swan began her journey with cannabis as a recreational user and quickly realized its positive impact on her depression and severe anxiety. She joined the cannabis industry as Receptionist and MedTender and witnessed first-hand the immense potential of the plant for a wide variety of ailments, deepening her passion for alternative medicine. Swan is dedicated to self-education on the plant and sharing its potential with all. She holds a Journalism degree from the University of Iowa.
