We believe your cannabis retail experience should be out-of-this-world. The products, prices, staff, education provided, and atmosphere should have you feeling right at home and a part of the community — just as you have felt with your local grocery store for years.
To put that belief into action, we are taking you all down a rabbit hole of cannabis education yet again! Last month, we covered the different types of cannabis rosin. This time around, we’ve diving into the fascinating terpene, myrcene.
About Myrcene
When it comes to understanding the distinctive characteristics of cannabis, myrcene plays a significant role. One of the fascinating aspects of this terpene is its contribution to the distinctive aroma and effects of different cannabis strains. If you’re a cannabis user, you’ve come to know and love this terpene very well even if you haven’t consciously known that you have.
The distinct aroma doesn’t come from cannabinoids themselves. In fact, it actually comes from the terpenes, and myrcene is one of the strongest of them all.
It’s responsible for that earthy, musky, and sometimes fruity fragrance that captures our senses right away when we smell a new strain in the dispensary. Strains with high levels of myrcene often have a more pungent aroma, while those with lower concentrations may exhibit different (sometimes not as strong) scent profiles.
While myrcene is commonly associated with cannabis, it’s worth noting that it can be found in other plants, too. In fact, myrcene can be found in high concentrations in fruits like mangoes, as well as in hops, lemongrass, thyme, and basil.
Beyond its aroma, myrcene is believed to have certain effects on the overall experience of cannabis consumption. It has been shown to contribute to the “sedating” or “relaxing” effects for which some strains are known. This terpene, in combination with other cannabinoids and terpenes, influences the unique characteristics and therapeutic benefits of each strain.
Unveiling the Potential Therapeutic Benefits of Myrcene
Now that you know a little bit about this fascinating terpene, let’s explore the potential therapeutic benefits it possesses. Research suggests that myrcene boasts several incredible benefits to help users with their health conditions. Let’s dive into them.
- Myrcene possesses anti-cancer properties. A study found that it was successful at killing cancer cells.
- This terpene is anticonvulsant, which makes it a great option for those with epilepsy.
- Another study conducted that myrcene has anti-inflammatory properties when taken orally. This is beneficial for several reasons but one of the best benefits is that anti-inflammatory properties slow down the progression of osteoarthritis.
- A study on rats found that antioxidant properties were found when combined with curcumin and cineole and taken orally.
- Myrcene is a natural pain-reliever. A study found that when they isolated myrcene from lemongrass, it produced pain-relieving effects for mice.
- This terpene has sedative and muscle relaxing properties and is believed to be the best terpene for sleep.
The Dance of Myrcene with Other Cannabis Compounds
Cannabis is a symphony of compounds, and myrcene loves to play harmoniously with others. Through the entourage effect, myrcene interacts with cannabinoids and other terpenes, enhancing and modulating the overall experience. In a nutshell, it works better in the presence of other compounds.
Identifying Myrcene-Rich Cannabis Strains:
So now that you know what myrcene is all about and its benefits, you might be wondering which popular strains possess this fantastic terpene. Let’s get into them.
- Granddaddy Purple – An indica marijuana strain. Its potent effects are clearly detectable in both mind and body, delivering a fusion of cerebral euphoria and physical relaxation.
- Harlequin – A sativa marijuana strain renowned for its reliable expression of CBD. This strain provides clear-headed effects and the ability to relax without sedation or intoxication.
- 9lb Hammer – An indica strain and the effects induce feeling sleepy, relaxed, and euphoric.
- Aliens on Moonshine – An indica-dominant strain that emits a funky aroma, providing an uplifting, clear headed buzz and soothing physical effects.
- Blue Dream – A sativa-dominant hybrid marijuana strain that produces a balanced high, along with effects such as cerebral stimulation and full-body relaxation.
- Mandarin Dream – A fruity gassy hybrid with big bright green buds, this euphoric strain is great for winding down at night or taking an evening stroll.
- Strawberry Switchblade – This THC-dominant hybrid has a fruity terpene profile with sweet flavors of cream, strawberries, and grapes.
- TruBerry OG – This hybrid strain has pungent citrus and berry flavors with earthy influences and leaves the user feeling happy, creative, and relaxed.
Find Myrcene-rich Cannabis Products Here at Eclipse Dispensary in Boulder
Now that you’ve discovered myrcene and its fascinating attributes, we know you’re excited to go try out a myrcene-rich strain/product.
Well, you’re in luck! We have lots to choose from right here at our dispensary in Boulder. Our knowledgeable budtenders are eager to help you find the perfect options for you to take home, and put the information from this blog into practice.
We hope you enjoyed following along! Follow us on Instagram to stay up-to-date with all things Eclipse Cannabis.
Be sure to consult your physician before making any changes to your health or fitness regimen. Products sold by Eclipse Cannabis are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.