Peppery and spicy are some of the ways to describe myrcene.
This terpene is found in lemongrass and also gives beer its signature balsam fragrance. Mangos, verbena, bay leaves, and thyme also contain myrcene. In cannabis, myrcene is one of the most common terpenes.
In fact, it appears as the most dominant terpene in most cannabis flowers. It makes it a massive contributor to the plant’s profile. According to this Swiss study, myrcene comprises up to 65% of the terpene content in a cannabis plant.
There is a limited amount of terpenes and chemical diversity in commercial cannabis strains. You will find that at least 40% of the time, myrcene will be the most dominant terpene in the strain.
What makes myrcene stand out in the crowd? Without further ado, let’s talk about myrcene!
Function
Myrcene affects the body in multiple ways. Although studies are still in progress, their medical benefits are slowly being discovered. It’s been suggested that myrcene has therapeutic properties. The main benefit of this terpene is its ability to act as an antioxidant.
A study from the National Library of Medicine finds the agents within the terpene may be responsible for the prevention of aging and degenerative diseases, such as atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and neurological illnesses.
Entourage Effect
When combined with other cannabinoids, myrcene can have some interesting effects. Its properties are present in many strains, making a massive difference every time.
Myrcene works better when combined with other cannabinoids. A 2016 study found CBG, CBD and THC also have possible unique effects when put together with myrcene. CBG and myrcene have the possibility to fight off cancer. CBD and myrcene can decrease inflammation and reduce pain. Lastly, THC and myrcene can relax the muscles and act as an enhanced sedative.
Aroma
One whiff of myrcene will leave your system shocked! As mentioned earlier, the terpene has an earthy and spicy scent reminiscent of cloves.
The smell has two contrasting parts. Although the scent is traditionally more earthy, it also has a tropical vibe that will remind you of a mango. The small hint of fruit makes a difference in various types of cannabis strains.
Taste
When you try a strain with myrcene, you will know. Its flavour profile is unique because it's musky and earthy with a touch of the tropics.
Myrcene is the answer if you’ve ever wondered where the earthy, peppery taste in certain beers comes from. In addition to cannabis, you will find this terpene in cardamom, basil, lemongrass and hops. Despite its bold flavours, you will notice an almost tangy aftertaste.
What’s next…
Despite recent discoveries, there’s more to know about myrcene. One of the biggest questions is, “how much myrcene needs to be consumed to benefit from its therapeutic effects?” The amount needed to reap the medical benefits of myrcene has yet to be uncovered.
Although scientists are in the early stages of research, they are beginning to understand how myrcene and other terpenes interact with cannabinoids. Once more is revealed, we can use myrcene at its highest potential!
