Myrcene Terpene - Effects, Medical Uses, & More

Have you ever enjoyed a terpene-rich strain of cannabis that left you feeling deeply relaxed with a sense of calm contentment? If so, you might be experiencing the myrcene terpene’s effects.

Terpenes, the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its unique flavors and scents, are also thought to play a significant role in the overall effects patients experience with cannabis. Myrcene is the most abundant terpene in modern cannabis strains. It has an earthy and herbal aroma, relaxing effects, and potential medical benefits that extend far beyond creating a chill vibe.

What Is Myrcene?

Myrcene is a monoterpene, a type of organic molecule with a distinctive aroma commonly found in many different plants. It's one of the most abundant terpenes present in the cannabis plant, contributing significantly to the overall fragrance and potentially influencing the effects consumers experience.

Where Is Myrcene Found in Nature?

Myrcene can be found in a surprising variety of plants across the botanical kingdom, lending its distinctive aroma and potentially influencing their properties. Myrcene can be found in:

• Herbs and spices: Myrcene contributes to the peppery and herbal notes in some of our favorite culinary companions. Take in the scent of fresh thyme or bay leaves, and you might detect a hint of myrcene's earthy aroma.

• Citrus fruits and tropical grasses: While not as prominent as limonene in citrus fruits, myrcene can be found both in citrus fruits and tropical plants like lemongrass. Myrcene adds a touch of earthiness to their characteristic citrusy zest. It’s also a prominent terpene in mangoes.

• Hops: Myrcene plays a role in the unique aroma of hops, a key ingredient in beer.

What Is Myrcene's Aroma?

Myrcene is known for its earthy, musky aroma, sometimes described as having resinous, green, piney, or even citrusy tones. Myrcene’s aroma is apparent in several essential oils like lemongrass essential oil, with a beautifully crisp, grassy, and citrusy scent.

Myrcene's Benefits

A host of benefits are associated with myrcene including relaxing properties, pain relief, and mood-boosting, sleep-inducing, and antibacterial properties:

• Relaxation: Myrcene can help with rest and relaxation. Studies suggest strains high in myrcene induce sedative effects, often referred to as “couch-lock” [1]. This could explain why cannabis strains high in myrcene often induce a sense of calm and peace.

• Pain relief: Myrcene's anti-inflammatory properties are another exciting area of research. The same overview paper linked above states that it could help reduce inflammation that leads to painful conditions like arthritis [1].

• Sleep-promoting potential: The calming and potentially pain-relieving properties of myrcene might also contribute to better sleep. By promoting relaxation and reducing discomfort, myrcene could be a natural sleep aid for those struggling with insomnia.

• Uplifting effect: Studies suggest myrcene might also have mood-boosting properties [1].

The medical benefits of terpenes are becoming more and more recognized in the scientific community. Knowing how individual terpenes work alongside cannabinoids like THC and CBD opens the door to a natural therapy that can complement your ongoing medical treatment. Make sure to apply for or renew your medical marijuana card to purchase terpene-rich cannabis products excise tax-free if you reside in Arizona.

Myrcene for Qualifying Conditions 

Patients in some states like Arizona can purchase medical marijuana to treat qualifying conditions. Research into myrcene’s potential medical applications is ongoing. However, there’s evidence to suggest that this terpene is beneficial in the treatment of the following AZ qualifying conditions:

Chronic Pain

Research suggests that myrcene has “significant” analgesic effects, meaning it could help relieve chronic pain caused by a range of conditions. One study showed that myrcene could help relieve pain and inflammation caused by arthritis. Another study showed that myrcene—unlike pharmacological pain relievers like opioids—doesn’t seem to create tolerance even after repeated dosing.  

Seizures

Research suggests myrcene may be an effective anticonvulsant agent. Studies on mice showed myrcene’s antiepileptic potential by reducing convulsions caused by seizures, with sedative effects [1].

Cancer

A Korean study presented exciting research suggesting myrcene could discourage the metastasis of breast cancer cells. There currently isn’t evidence to suggest myrcene could prevent cancer, but its anti-tumor effects are certainly encouraging.

Myrcene's Effects on the Body and Brain

Myrcene has been shown to have many effects on both the body and the brain. For example, inhaling cannabis essential oil was shown to improve nerve activity and have stress and anxiety-relieving effects [1]. Participants in the same study noted feeling more energetic, calmer, and with an elevated mood after exposure to myrcene.

Studies also suggest myrcene could have the following effects:

• Anti-inflammatory: Myrcene’s anti-inflammatory effects could have multiple applications from relieving arthritis to preventing heart failure.

• Analgesic: Myrcene appears to reduce resistance across the blood-brain barrier, meaning that analgesic compounds like THC can cross the barrier more easily.

High-Myrcene Strains

Patients searching for high-myrcene cannabis strains have many from which to choose. These include both high-THC and high-CBD cultivars:

Myrcene Strains with High THC

High THC combined with high myrcene levels can be a marriage made in heaven for some patients. Proceed with caution with high-THC strains when starting out:

Bubba Kush

Indica-dominant hybrid, 25% THC/0% CBD

Bubba Kush is famous for its tranquilizing effects. This is the perfect choice for replacing stress with euphoria as you drift into a deep and peaceful sense of relaxation.

Granddaddy Purple

Indica, 27% THC/1% CBD

This famous strain offers potent effects on the body and mind. Embrace euphoria and mental relaxation while you float in a dreamy buzz. This strain is anecdotally effective for pain, stress, and insomnia.

Mango Puff

Indica-dominant hybrid, 23% THC/0% CBD

Mango Puff offers a delightful mango flavor alongside a peaceful and soothing high. Enjoy this uplifting and relaxing strain when you need a relaxing chill session.

High-CBD Myrcene Strains

The following strains with high myrcene levels could be the perfect start if you’re looking to sidestep THC’s psychoactive effects or simply prefer the health benefits of CBD:

ACDC

Sativa-dominant hybrid, 24% CBD/6% THC

ACDC is a popular high-CBD cannabis strain with high levels of myrcene as well as other terpenes like pinene and caryophyllene. It’s known as one of the best weed strains for pain relief, possibly thanks to its high myrcene content. ACDC is a great choice for beginners or patients who want to avoid strong psychoactive effects. 

Canna Bliss

Hybrid, 21% CBD/0% THC

Cannabis Bliss is the perfect option for patients seeking strains with virtually no THC content. This strain offers a delectable mix of fruity and earthy flavors and aromas. You might pick up hints of spice or even vanilla.

Cannatonic

Hybrid, 14% CBD/7% THC

Besides high levels of myrcene, Cannatonic is also high in pinene and caryophyllene. The result is a beautifully spicy, citrusy flavor and aroma perfect for kicking back.

Enjoy Relaxation, Pain Relief, and Sleep with Myrcene

Consumers attracted by myrcene's earthy flavor and aroma will find a range of potential health benefits. Ask experts in your local MMJ dispensary for their favorite myrcene-rich strain that could fit in with your existing treatment schedule.

Whether you’re looking to treat a qualifying condition or perhaps need extra help drifting off to sleep, there will be a myrcene strain for you. Embrace the earthy flavor and aroma and sit back and relax as you let your favorite myrcene-rich strain take over.