Ever notice a citrusy aroma accompanying some marijuana strains? That’s usually myrcene, an aromatic compound commonly found in many cannabis plants. Myrcene is more than just a scent; it’s a potent plant compound that impacts the effects each strain provides. High myrcene strains are particularly popular among users due to their potential relaxing effects, making them ideal for people dealing with occasional stress or seeking to unwind after a long day. Let’s take a look at the highest myrcene strains and discuss how they might benefit you.
What Is Myrcene?
Myrcene is a naturally occurring terpene found in various plants—including thyme, lemongrass, hops, and cannabis. Terpenes are naturally occurring aromatic compounds found in plants, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, roots, and herbs.
These chemicals are responsible for giving each plant its unique smell and taste. Myrcene is known for its earthy, musky aroma with hints of fruity undertones reminiscent of ripe mangoes.
What Does Myrcene Feel Like?
Terpenes like myrcene not only contribute to the distinct aromatics of plants but also offer potential wellness benefits. Cannabis enthusiasts believe that myrcene helps cannabinoids support mind and body relaxation.
Consuming high myrcene strains could be beneficial for anyone—from athletes who want to support post-workout recovery, to an aging person who experiences occasional stiff joints.
In addition, myrcene enhances the overall effects of THC and also aids the body with THC absorption. Therefore, the presence of myrcene in a strain can also intensify your high.
How Does Myrcene Work?
Myrcene plays a supporting but key role in the effects of THC and other cannabinoids. Cannabinoids cause psychoactive effects of wellness benefits by how they interact with receptors in the body, namely CB1 and CB2 receptors.
For instance, when THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and spinal column, you may experience euphoria and a body high. However, when CBD interacts with CB2 receptors, you may feel sleepy or calm.
Myrcene is believed to have an indirect effect on the endocannabinoid system. Instead of binding directly to the CB1 or CB2 receptors, myrcene seems to enhance the effects of these cannabinoids by increasing their ability to bind to the receptors. This boost in efficacy is known as the "entourage effect.”
Additionally, myrcene has been found to enhance the absorption of cannabinoids. This means that myrcene can potentially enhance the overall effects of cannabis when consumed together.
Is Myrcene a Common Terpene in Weed?
Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes present in cannabis plants, accounting for up to 50% of the total terpene content in some strains. This makes myrcene a significant contributor to the overall aroma, flavor, and effects of cannabis strains.
The presence of myrcene in a wide variety of weed strains highlights the importance of terpenes in shaping the unique characteristics of different cannabis plants. As researchers continue to explore the complex relationship between terpenes, cannabinoids, and their effects on the human body, the understanding of the role that compounds like myrcene play in the cannabis experience will only grow.
This knowledge will help cultivators develop new strains that cater to specific needs, preferences, and desired effects, making it even more critical to recognize and appreciate the influence of common terpenes like myrcene in tailoring weed experiences.
What Causes High Myrcene Strains?
Several factors can contribute to a cannabis strain having high levels of myrcene. Let’s take a look at three primary reasons some strains may have more myrcene than others.
Genetics
As we mentioned, cultivators have started to cater to the specific needs of consumers by developing strains with high levels of specific cannabinoids or terpenes. The primary determinant of a strain's myrcene content is its genetic makeup.
Selective breeding allows specific cannabis strains to possess higher concentrations of myrcene. Breeders often cross strains with high myrcene levels to create new cultivars with the desired terpene profile. As a result, the genetic predisposition of a strain plays a significant role in its myrcene content.
Growing Conditions
Humidity, temperature, lighting, and soil nutrition can also influence the myrcene levels in a cannabis plant. For instance, moderate temperatures and adequate humidity help promote terpene production, particularly myrcene.
Similarly, exposure to a full spectrum of light encourages the synthesis of terpenes. Soil quality and nutrient availability also play a role, as healthy plants with access to essential nutrients are more likely to produce higher levels of terpenes.
Cultivation Techniques
The way a cannabis plant is grown and cared for can impact its myrcene content. Proper pruning, training, and plant management can encourage the development of robust flowers that yield higher concentrations of terpenes.
Additionally, when you harvest flowers can significantly affect terpene levels. Harvesting plants at their peak maturity ensures the highest concentration of terpenes, including myrcene.
Post-harvest processing, such as drying and curing, also influences the preservation of myrcene. Proper drying and curing techniques help maintain the terpene profile, while improper methods can lead to terpene degradation and loss.
What Are the Highest Myrcene Strains?
Now that you know the potential benefits of myrcene, it's time to focus on the cannabis strains that are abundant in it. It's important to note that the exact myrcene levels in cannabis strains can vary, even within the strain. Factors that we discussed earlier, like growing techniques and processing procedures, can impact myrcene levels in even the highest myrcene strains.
Therefore, it's difficult to provide precise average myrcene levels for each strain. However, these myrcene-rich strains have gained popularity among cannabis enthusiasts worldwide.
OG Kush
As the name “OG” implies, this indica-dominant hybrid has stood the test of time as a favorite amongst cannabis enthusiasts. Myrcene concentrations in OG Kush tend to fall within the range of 0.3% to 0.7% of the flower's total weight. It’s renowned for its earthy, piney aroma and potent effects that provide both physical relaxation and mental uplift.
Granddaddy Purple
Granddaddy Purple is a cross between Big Bud and Purple Urkle and is a very popular indica weed strain. Myrcene levels in Granddaddy Purple tend to vary between 0.3% and 0.6% of the flower's total weight. It has a potent grape flavor and has been known to support healthy sleep patterns in some users.
Blue Dream
Blue Dream is a cross between Blueberry and Haze, making this myrcene-rich hybrid a well-rounded strain. It is renowned for its berry aroma and balanced effects, providing users with relaxation and a gentle head high. The high myrcene content in Blue Dream contributes to its calming and soothing properties. Myrcene levels in Blue Dream often range between 0.2% and 0.5% of the flower's total weight.
White Widow
White Widow is a balanced hybrid that has a unique blend of Brazilian sativa and South India indica genetics. It’s known to have relaxing effects and mood-enhancing qualities. The complex genetic profile of White Widow allows this strain to have a robust terpene content, with typically high levels of myrcene. Myrcene concentration in White Widow generally falls within 0.2% to 0.5% of the flower's total weight.
Tangie
Looking for a bright and uplifting buzz? This sativa-dominant hybrid aids with energy levels and focus. Tangie is a cross between Skunk and California Orange, which emits a strong citrus aroma. This cheerful strain usually has myrcene concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 0.4% of the flower's total weight.
Is a High Myrcene Strain Right for Me?
Myrcene is a prevalent and essential terpene found in many cannabis strains, responsible for creating unique aroma profiles and contributing to the overall experience of using marijuana. High myrcene strains like Blue Dream, OG Kush, Granddaddy Purple, Tangie, and White Widow are popular choices among users due to their potential wellness benefits and strong highs.
The myrcene content in these strains can vary depending on genetics, growing conditions, and cultivation techniques. Always check the lab reports of a product to verify myrcene levels.
By appreciating the influence of terpenes like myrcene, we can better tailor our cannabis consumption to achieve desired effects and enhance overall well-being. If you believe you could benefit from a high-myrcene strain, start with small servings to see how your body reacts and notice if you experience your desired effects. Being in tune with your body is the key to enjoying cannabis responsibly!
Hannah Smith is Joy Organics Director of Communications. She is driven by her passion for providing clear and accessible wellness and CBD education. In 2015, she received her BA in Media, Culture and the Arts from The King’s College in New York City and before Joy Organics, worked as writer and photographer in the Middle East and North Africa. Her work has been featured on Forbes, Vice, Vox, Denver Post, and the Coloradoan.
