In the second in Tyler’s Terpene Tidbits series, we unravel the mysteries of the terpene myrcene. Commonly found in hybrid and indica cultivars, myrcene’s sedating effects can be found in high percentages in lots of different Ohio cannabis strains.

Tyler's Terpenes

Welcome Back! Time to Learn about Myrcene

Welcome back to Terpene Tidbits! Last month we explored linalool. Today’s topic is about another sedating terpene, myrcene. Its one of the most common terpenes that we find in cannabis products today. But like all terpenes, its uses reach far beyond cannabis. There are many interesting things to know about myrcene. So let’s dive in! 

What is Myrcene? 

If you are familiar with terpenes, then chances are you’ve heard of myrcene. Typically a top 3 terp in cannabis, it’s commonly found in hybrid and indica cultivars. Some cultivars you may have heard of that contain high amounts of myrcene are Blue Dream, Cherry Star, and Strawberry Cheesecake, just to name a few.

Myrcene is known for its sedative effects. It’s also know for exhibiting aromas and flavors that can resemble spices like balsam or black pepper. It can give off wood/earthy/spice scents as well.  

Myrcene’s Biological Role in Plants 

While doing research on myrcene, one of the most interesting discoveries I made was that the sap from many coniferous trees contain myrcene and this works as a defense mechanism for plants to deter insects and bugs from attacking the plant tissue. Myrcene can also have uses in the insect repellent industry. When using essential oils from spent hops, myrcene was a significant contributing factor in the prevention of repellent activity.  

Uses in Industry 

Like many terpenes out there, myrcene is used in the perfume and fragrance industries. Other compounds or terpenes are combined with myrcene to make a desirable aroma. Even more widely used in the foodservice industry as a flavor enhancer. Commonly found in baked goods, hard candy, gum, and many other food items, but you’ll rarely see myrcene shown on the consumer ingredient list. It’s found in many household cleaning products—if you have ever used Dawn dish soap, try out the green papaya scent! It doesn’t stop there either, myrcene is also found in many Mr. Clean, Swiffer, and Clorox products. So, feel free to clean using myrcene! 

Potential Uses in Medicine 

When considering myrcene as a health benefit, one of the most obvious is when it is used as a sedative. Cannabis cultivars with high myrcene content as well as products outside of cannabis that contain high amounts of myrcene can give a sedative effect if consumed. A study was done that discovered myrcene could be beneficial for anti-asthmatic conditions by protecting the lung tissue. Other medical issues like Osteoarthritis, Breast Cancer, and Ulcers, have also been shown in cell and rat models to display positive implications when myrcene is used as a treatment option.

There was also a patent filed with the United States patent office which stated that Organophosphate Toxicity can be treated with myrcene. Organophosphate Toxicity is something that can happen when exposed to insecticides. Symptoms include muscle weakness, nausea, blurred vision, narrowed pupils, miosis, diaphoresis among others.  

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Myrcene in Foods 

Years ago, I stumbled upon some information that stated if you ate a mango prior to consuming cannabis that it would bring out heavy sedative effects. I was skeptical but after doing some research and trying it myself, I discovered that it was an accurate statement. Many fruits and vegetables regularly available at your local grocery store have high amounts of myrcene like blueberries, mandarins, tangerines, celery, corn, as well as carrots. Also, many spices like cayenne, parsley, oregano, and curry all have myrcene content.

Find Myrcene in Ohio MMJ Strains! 

Thanks so much for joining me on this journey to learn about the wonderful world of terps! Make sure to watch out for the next Terpene Tidbit! 

Source:

Russ Hudson, The Big Book of Terps, Understanding Terpenes, Flavonoids, and Synergy in Cannabis”, Edited by Jacqueline Graddon, MBA, Pages 118-127

Author

  • Tyler Baker is a medical cannabis patient in the state of Ohio and was the first to purchase in Lorain County. Tyler has been using cannabis since 2009 to treat epilepsy and has become an advocate for cannabis normalization since that time. He says: "My passion for cannabis is unshaken; I want everyone to look at this plant as a natural healer that can be beneficial for their well-being."

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