As we’ve explained on some occasions, plants, flowers, and fruits have an aroma that’s composed of different terpenes. One of the most common ones is Myrcene, which we’ll be discussing today.
What is Myrcene?
Myrcene is an organic compound primarily classified as a hydrocarbon and, specifically, a monoterpene. This terpene is one of the main components of the essential oils found in the majority of cannabis plants, other plants and flowers such as thyme, oregano, hops…
Cali Terpenes cannabis terpene profiles contain around 40 different terpenes and sesquiterpenes per aroma (as many as the aroma of each strain contains). Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis.
Its vaping temperature is between 166 and 168ºC. Myrcene plays a very important role in these profiles, as it possesses numerous beneficial properties.
What properties does Myrcene have?
Myrcene possesses numerous properties, just like the majority of terpenes.
- Analgesic, relaxing, and sedative: Numerous studies, mostly of animals, have explored the analgesic effects of myrcene, acting as a sedative and muscle relaxant.
- Anti-inflammatory: Myrcene acts as an anti-inflammatory by interfering with the signaling pathway of prostaglandins, which serve as cellular mediators in various contexts.
- Makes cannabinoid absorption easier: Myrcene alters the blood-brain barrier, allowing the brain to better assimilate cannabinoids such as THC or CBD.
Strains with a High Percentage of Terpenes
Myrcene is commonly found in most cannabis strains, with higher proportions typically present in strains classified as indicas.
The combination of Myrcene with other terpenes, such as Caryophyllene, in similar proportions and with similar properties (sedative, anti-inflammatory, relaxing), tends to occur in indica strains. Therefore, these types of strains are commonly known as “evening” strains, as they induce a very pleasant physical relaxation that’s ideal for relieving the stress of daily life and promoting restful sleep.
On the other hand, if Myrcene is present in similar proportions to terpenes with different properties, such as Limonene or Pinene (with energizing effects), its sedative or narcotic effect is not enhanced as much. This is why high concentrations of Myrcene can be found in sativa varieties.
5 Strains with a High Percentage of Myrcene:
- Sensi Star: An indica strain with unknown genetics, renowned for its sedative power.
- Furious Candy: This indica strain results from the crossbreeding of Papa’s Candy and G.White Shark, delivering a potent sedative effect with a particularly sweet terpene combination, with a larger quantity of Myrcene.
- TNT Kush: Classified as a 100% indica strain by Eva Seeds seed bank and originating from Pakistan, this strain is especially known for its sedative properties, acting as a muscle relaxant and alleviating pain.
- AK 47: This cannabis strain with Sativa dominance is a hybrid of Colombia x Mexico x Thailand x Afghanistan, legendary for its energizing and pleasurable effects that help uplift mood.
- Cinderella 99: A sativa-dominant cannabis strain derived from Princess x P94 genetics, featuring a quite citrus-like terpene profile where Myrcene is again the main terpene.
Did this post help you get a better idea of what Myrcene is and why it’s important? Also, remember that we have other articles about terpenes like Terpinolene or Linalool too!
Until next time!
Cali Terpenes
