Cannabis plants get their aroma and flavor from terpenes. There are many types of terpenes, each having unique properties and notes that can shape the overall cannabis experience. Here’s everything you should know about myrcene, one of the most abundant terpenes present in cannabis. 

Understanding Terpenes 

Terpenes are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. Terpenes in cannabis act as primary aromatics and flavorants, giving the plant its signature taste and smell. A cannabis strain can contain numerous terpenes at once and have a complex flavor profile, but the dominating terpene determines which flavor note stands out. That’s why some cannabis is considered fruity and zesty, while others are spicy, earthy, or even diesel-like.

Different types of terpenes

The number of terpenes found across a variety of plants is estimated to be in the tens of thousands. On the other hand, there are over 200 different kinds of terpenes that can be found in cannabis. Terpene profiles can vary, as some terpenes are more abundant than others, depending on the cannabis strain and the plant’s genetics. 

The most popular terpenes and their signature aroma include:

• Pinene (crisp, woody, pine-like aroma)
• Linalool (floral, herbal aroma)
• Limonene (citrusy, zesty, bitter-sweet aroma)
• Humulene (earthy or woody aroma)
• Caryophyllene (woody or spicy aroma)

Myrcene

Myrcene is one of the most popular terpenes across the cannabis industry, commonly present in commercial cannabis strains. This potent aromatic flavor component is known for its musky, earthy, and sometimes exotic flavor profile. This is not a cannabis-exclusive terpene, as myrcene is found in hops, fruits like mango, as well as some herbs and spices like cardamom,  thyme, lemongrass, parsley, bay leaves, and others. 

For centuries, plants rich in myrcene have been used in folk medicine due to their potential analgesic and calming effects. Nowadays, it’s favored for its aroma by the cannabis industry, fragrance industry, as well as the food and beverage industry. 

There is a wide range of popular cannabis strains high in myrcene, giving them the peculiar earthy, musky taste that a lot of cannabis connoisseurs love. The strains with high levels of myrcene include, but are not limited to:

• Blue Dream (sativa-dominant hybrid) 
• Permanent Marker (hybrid)
• White Widow (hybrid)
• OG Kush (hybrid)
• Grandaddy Purple (indica)
• Purple Kush (indica)
• 9 Pound Hammer (indica)
• Pineapple Express (hybrid)
• Northern Lights (indica)
• Maui Wowie (sativa)

The Entourage Effect Between Terpenes and Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids and terpenes are both naturally occurring chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. The two most common cannabinoids are Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol, also known as THC and CBD.  Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid, causing a ”high” effect. A full-spectrum THC (with other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids) and isolated THC can potentially differ in effects.

It is theorized that terpenes and cannabinoids may work synergistically, creating a so-called entourage effect that can enhance and alter the overall effects. This phenomenon is still being researched in practice. 

It’s important to note that many things play a role in cannabis effects, including cannabinoid and terpene profiles, dosage, personal tolerance to cannabis, and many other factors. 

Ongoing Research

Myrcene is still being studied for its potential health benefits, particularly regarding the entourage effect. So far, myrcene’s primary purpose is to give the cannabis its special aroma and flavor. Its sedating and calming effects are still being researched in practice. 

Understanding what terpenes like myrcene are and how they can shape your cannabis experience can help when picking the right cannabis product for you.  Find your nearest dispensary and get familiar with the wide selection of cannabis products that fit your potency and flavor preferences.