What does the terpene myrcene do?

Jul 21, 2024The nama Team
What does the terpene myrcene do? - namaCBD

Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in the cannabis plant. This aromatic compound gives many strains their signature earthy, fruity scent, but it also offers many therapeutic benefits. 

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What is myrcene?

Myrcene is a naturally occurring organic compound classified as a monoterpene. It's one of the most abundant terpenes found in cannabis and other plant species, such as hops, lemongrass, and mangoes. Chemically, myrcene has the molecular formula C10H16 and is characterized by its branched carbon skeleton with two double bonds.

As a monoterpene, myrcene acts as a building block for larger terpenes. It's a precursor in the biosynthesis of other terpenes, playing a crucial role in plant metabolism and defense mechanisms. The chemical structure of myrcene consists of an open chain of ten carbon atoms with three methyl groups and two isoprene units. This structure gives myrcene its distinctive aroma and contributes to its potential effects on the human body.

Myrcene is a volatile compound: it evaporates at room temperature, releasing molecules into the air. The airborne molecules are easily detected by our olfactory receptors, contributing to the scent profile of plants that contain them. 

The flavor profile of myrcene

Myrcene has a complex and distinctive flavor profile that contributes to cannabis and other plants. Its primary taste characteristics include:

  • Earthy: a dominant, soil-like flavor reminiscent of fresh forest floors
  • Musky: a deep, pungent note that adds complexity to the overall aroma
  • Herbal: similar to cloves or thyme, providing a spicy, medicinal undertone
  • Fruity: subtle hints of tropical fruits, particularly mango and lychee
  • Balsamic: a slightly sweet, woody flavor 

The flavors of myrcene are different for each cannabis strain. Flavors are influenced by the concentration of myrcene content and the presence of other terpenes. In cannabis, myrcene's flavor interacts with other terpenes and cannabinoids to provide a rich and complex taste profile.

What effects does myrcene produce?

Beyond its aromatic contributions, myrcene has a wide range of potential effects. Effects associated with myrcene include:

  1. Sedation, inducing feelings of relaxation and drowsiness
  2. Anxiolytic effects
  3. Muscle relaxation
  4. Pain relief
  5. Anti-inflammatory response
  6. Anticonvulsant properties, producing a calming effect on the nervous system
  7. Antioxidant activity, neutralizing free radicals
  8. Increased cell membrane permeability, enhancing the absorption of other compounds
  9. Appetite stimulation
  10. Synergistic interaction with other cannabis compounds

The synergistic interaction of myrcene with other cannabis compounds contributes to the entourage effect, where different components work together to enhance each other’s benefits. Because of the rich cannabinoid and terpene profile including myrcene, hybrid strains offer a more balanced and effective entourage effect. Hybrids can combine the relaxing properties of myrcene with energizing or focusing effects from other compounds, creating a more well-rounded experience. You get all the benefits while minimizing the potential side effects.

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What are the benefits of myrcene?

Myrcene's wide-ranging effects allow this aromatic terpene to address many health concerns simultaneously. Here’s why you want your cannabis product to contain rich amounts of myrcene:

  1. Myrcene may improve sleep quality and duration by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
  2. Its calming properties help you manage daily stress levels.
  3. Myrcene shows potential for long-term pain relief because of its analgesic properties. Studies suggest that myrcene exhibits analgesic properties through interactions with opioid and noradrenergic systems. Myrcene may also influence pain perception through its interaction with TRPV1 channels.
  4. It may also offer neuroprotection, slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
  5. Myrcene's antibacterial and antioxidant properties help fight infections.
  6. Early studies suggest myrcene might have anti-tumor properties. A 2023 study indicates that myrcene exhibits significant biological activity in HeLa cells, inhibiting proliferation, reducing motility, altering cell morphology, and causing DNA damage. 
  7. It could aid digestive health by reducing inflammation in the gut.
  8. Myrcene’s anti-inflammatory properties may benefit various skin conditions. A 2021 study found that “myrcene may have a vital role against age-associated skin oxidative damage in skin care products.”
  9. Myrcene could enhance the effectiveness of other chemical compounds in cannabis by increasing cell membrane permeability. Research points to certain terpenes mimicking the effects of cannabinoids and amplifying their activity. This offers clear evidence for the entourage effect and that terpenes such as myrcene, linalool, and pinene can increase the therapeutic properties of cannabinoids. 

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Are there side effects and dangers to myrcene?

Myrcene is generally safe, but excessive consumption may lead to some side effects. If you consume a cannabis product that contains high levels of myrcene, or you overindulge yourself in too much cannabis, you may experience: 

  • Sedation, excessive drowsiness, or sleepiness
  • Motor impairment, impaired coordination, and slowed reaction time
  • Cognitive effects such as mental fogginess or difficulty concentrating
  • Low blood pressure
  • Increased heart rate
  • Dry mouth, known as “cottonmouth”
  • Dizziness
  • Gastrointestinal discomfort
  • Potential drug interactions
  • Allergic reactions in sensitive people

In moderation, terpenes such as myrcene amplify the therapeutic effects of cannabis while delivering an unparalleled sensory experience. Stick to microdosing to avoid potential side effects of myrcene. 

Cannabis strains rich in myrcene

Myrcene is a very common terpene found in many cannabis strains. Here are 10 strains with a high myrcene content: 

  1. Blue Dream is a sativa-dominant hybrid renowned for its balanced effects and sweet berry aroma. This popular strain offers a blend of cerebral stimulation and physical relaxation. Its high myrcene content contributes to its calming properties and fruity flavor profile.
  2. White Widow is a classic Dutch hybrid with a balanced indica and sativa ratio. It's characterized by peppery flavor notes and potent effects, combining mental clarity with physical relaxation. The strain's myrcene content enhances its stress-relieving properties.
  3. Tangie is a balanced hybrid that boasts a distinct tangerine aroma and moderate THC content. Its myrcene levels contribute to a mellow, uplifting experience that many users find ideal for social situations. 
  4. Jillybean is a sativa-dominant hybrid with a sweet, fruity flavor profile resembling jellybeans and mangoes. This strain's high myrcene content contributes to its stress-relieving and mood-enhancing effects with a hint of euphoria. 
  5. Critical Mass is an indica-dominant hybrid resulting from crossing Afghani and Skunk #1. Its deeply relaxing effects are aided by the high myrcene content. This strain is a popular choice for its potential pain-relieving and sleep-inducing properties.
  6. Skywalker OG is an indica-leaning hybrid that crosses Mazar, Blueberry, and OG Kush. Its sweet and spicy notes are enhanced by myrcene's earthy aroma. The strain is known for its potent relaxing effects that help you relax and fall asleep.
  7. Special Kush is an indica-dominant hybrid that combines OG Kush and Sweet Special. Its citrus and pine aromas are complemented by myrcene's earthy scent. Users often choose this strain for its potentially calming and pain-relieving effects.
  8. Mango Puff lives up to its name with a mango-like aroma. High in myrcene, this hybrid offers a balanced experience, with users reporting both relaxation and mental clarity. 
  9. AK-47 is a well-balanced hybrid that boasts a complex flavor profile and potent effects. Despite its aggressive name, it's often described as providing a mellow, clear-headed high. The strain's myrcene content contributes to its relaxing properties and earthy undertones.
  10. Harlequin is a sativa-dominant hybrid that's unique for being CBD-rich while also containing significant levels of myrcene. This combination makes it popular among those seeking potential therapeutic benefits without intense psychoactive effects. 

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Myrcene terpene FAQ

Myrcene can enhance the effects of THC, which may boost your high. This terpene increases the permeability of cell membranes, allowing for more efficient transport of cannabinoids into the brain. Myrcene also might influence the activity of certain neurotransmitters to amplify the psychoactive effects of THC.

Some users report a more intense or longer-lasting high when consuming cannabis strains high in myrcene. The entourage effect, triggered by the synergistic interaction between terpenes and cannabinoids, is complex and influenced by a person’s metabolism, tolerance, and overall health. 

Cannabis strains with over 0.5% myrcene are associated with pronounced sedative effects, commonly referred to as "couch-lock." These strains produce a deep sense of physical relaxation and may be particularly effective for pain relief and sleep induction. The high myrcene content can contribute to enhanced anti-inflammatory effects and increase the analgesic effects of cannabinoids. 

Users often report a more body-centered high with these strains, which can be beneficial for conditions such as chronic pain, insomnia, and muscle tension. The strong sedative effects might not be suitable for daytime use or tasks requiring alertness. 

While cannabis is a well-known source of myrcene, several other plants contain significant amounts of this terpene. 

  • Mangoes are often cited as one of the best natural sources, with some varieties containing up to 1.5% myrcene by weight. 
  • Lemongrass is another excellent source, often used in teas and essential oils for its myrcene content. 
  • Hops, a key ingredient in beer, are also rich in myrcene, contributing to the plant's sedative effects. 
  • Some medicinal shrubs, particularly those used in traditional medicine, can also be good sources. Other notable sources include thyme, bay leaves, and basil. 

The concentration of myrcene is influenced by the plant variety, growing conditions, and extraction methods. For therapeutic use, cannabis and cannabis-derived products remain the most popular options because of their combined terpene and cannabinoid profiles.

Myrcene isn't typically considered bad for anxiety; in fact, it may alleviate anxiety symptoms in some people. By promoting relaxation and potentially increasing GABA activity in the brain, myrcene reduces stress and anxiety levels. The effects are different for everyone. Some people might find that high doses of myrcene-rich cannabis strains increase their anxiety, particularly if they're sensitive to THC. 

While myrcene itself might have anxiolytic properties, its effects in cannabis are always in conjunction with other compounds. For those using cannabis for anxiety, start with low-THC, high-CBD strains that also contain myrcene. 

Myrcene interacts with the brain in several ways, primarily through its influence on neurotransmitter systems. It's believed to increase GABA activity, the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, which can lead to relaxation and sedation. Myrcene may also interact with opioid receptors, potentially influencing pain perception and providing analgesic effects. Some studies suggest neuroprotective properties, with myrcene potentially offering protection against oxidative stress and inflammation in brain cells. 

Myrcene might also enhance the brain's uptake of other compounds, including cannabinoids, by increasing the permeability of the blood-brain barrier. This could explain its synergistic effects with THC. 

Myrcene is well-known for its sedative properties and can induce sleepiness in many users. This effect is a result of its interaction with neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate sleep and relaxation. Myrcene's sedative effects are so pronounced that cannabis strains with more than 0.5% myrcene are more suitable for nighttime use. The terpene may reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and potentially improve sleep quality. 

Some people might experience mild relaxation, while others might feel significant drowsiness. Myrcene's sedative effects can be amplified when combined with other relaxing compounds in cannabis, such as CBD or the terpene linalool. Use myrcene products responsibly and be aware of potential morning grogginess if you take a higher dose.

While myrcene itself is not directly psychoactive in the same way as THC, it can influence the overall psychoactive cannabis experience. Myrcene doesn't bind directly to cannabinoid receptors or produce intoxicating effects on its own. It can enhance the psychoactive potential of THC by increasing the permeability of the blood-brain barrier, potentially allowing more THC to reach the brain. 

Myrcene's sedative and relaxing properties can alter mood and perception, indirectly contributing to the psychoactive experience. Some users report that myrcene-rich strains produce a more intense body high or 'couch-lock' effect. It's also believed to play a major role in the entourage effect, working synergistically with cannabinoids to modulate the overall psychoactive experience. 

Fruits are natural sources of myrcene, but their concentrations are generally lower than in cannabis or concentrated essential oils. 

Fruits highest in myrcene content are:

  1. Mangoes: contain up to 1.5% myrcene by weight, with concentration increasing as the fruit ripens.
  2. Grapes: particularly muscadine grapes contain notable amounts of myrcene contributing to their musky flavor. 
  3. Peaches: contain moderate levels of myrcene, which contributes to their sweet aroma profile. The myrcene content in peaches might provide subtle calming effects.
  4. Apricots: similar to peaches, apricots contain myrcene that adds to their fruity scent. 
  5. Lemon: contains small amounts of myrcene that contribute to its aromatic profile. While the myrcene content is lower than in other fruits, lemons may still provide subtle relaxing effects.

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Resources

Surendran, S., Qassadi, F., Surendran, G., Lilley, D., & Heinrich, M. (2021). Myrcene—What Are the Potential Health Benefits of This Flavouring and Aroma Agent? Frontiers in Nutrition, 8, 699666. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2021.699666

Pincigher, L., Valenti, F., Bergamini, C., Prata, C., Fato, R., Amorati, R., Jin, Z., Farruggia, G., Fiorentini, D., Calonghi, N., & Zalambani, C. (2023). Myrcene: A Natural Compound Showing Anticancer Activity in HeLa Cells. Molecules, 28(18). https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28186728

LaVigne, J. E., Hecksel, R., Keresztes, A., & Streicher, J. M. (2021). Cannabis sativa terpenes are cannabimimetic and selectively enhance cannabinoid activity. Scientific Reports, 11(1), 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-87740-8

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