Know Your Cannabis: Myrcene

To continue our Know Your Cannabis: Terpenes series, this week we’re looking at Myrcene!

Myrcene is the most common terpene in cannabis. Strains high in myrcene will have a spicy and earthy scent and flavor. Myrcene is also found in mangoes, lemongrass, hops and cloves. In addition to being the most common terpene, myrcene is often the most dominant terpene in strains. This means that the myrcene dominant strains will have more myrcene than any other terpene.

Because it is so abundant in cannabis and many other popular plants, myrcene is one of the most researched terpenes. Studies have shown that it supports the transport of cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, across the blood brain barrier to increase their effects. This is some of the best evidence of the entourage effect and why purchasers should consider terpene percentage as well as cannabinoid content.

Myrcene also has some great benefits on its own. Myrcene rich plants, like lemongrass, have been used in homeopathic remedies for their anti-inflammatory and sedative properties. The sedative quality of myrcene is often associated with indica strains, but there are many hybrid and sativa strains that are myrcene dominant without causing couch lock. Research on the benefits of myrcene have shown it to contribute to the death of cancerous tumors.

Check out your local Consume dispensary for myrcene dominant strains like OG Kush, Granddaddy Purple, Tangie, Blue Dream, and more!

To learn more about terpenes, check out our Know Your Cannabis Classes!