The earthy scent found in many cannabis strains often comes from one specific terpene: myrcene. This compound is not unique to cannabis—it also appears in mangoes, hops, and thyme, where it contributes a musky aroma with light hints of spice or citrus.
In my more than ten years of working with cannabis and hemp, I’ve seen firsthand how terpenes shape the character of each variety. Among them, myrcene stands out for the richness it adds to both aroma and overall plant identity.
Here, I’ll explore what myrcene is, where it occurs in nature, and the role it plays in defining the scent and character of cannabis. Drawing from both research and personal experience, I’ll explain why myrcene continues to be one of the most recognizable terpenes in the industry.
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Key Takeaways
- Myrcene is a widely occurring terpene found in plants like cannabis, mangoes, hops, and lemongrass, contributing to their distinct aromas.
- It plays a significant role in shaping the sensory profiles of cannabis strains, especially those with indica-dominant traits.
- Myrcene forms part of the broader terpene and cannabinoid profile often referred to as the 'entourage effect,' highlighting the complexity of plant-based formulations.
- This terpene is extensively used in industries like aromatherapy, perfumery, and personal care for its musky, earthy scent with citrus or herbal notes.
- Environmental factors and breeding techniques can affect myrcene concentrations in cannabis, contributing to the plant's aromatic and chemical diversity.
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Defining Terpenes
Terpenes are a large group of organic hydrocarbons that share a common structure consisting of multiple isoprene units. They are produced by plants as secondary metabolites and play important roles in plant growth, development, and reproduction.
Over 20,000 different terpenes have been identified so far from various plant species, including lavender, lemon balm, rosemary, pine trees, and cannabis. The diverse array of terpenes found in plants creates a range of unique aromas and flavors that distinguish each species from one another.
For example, limonene gives lemons their characteristic citrus scent while linalool is responsible for the floral aroma of lavender flowers. These compounds not only add to the sensory experience but also serve as natural defense mechanisms against herbivores or harmful insects.
The Role of Terpenes in Nature and Everyday Products
Terpenes play essential roles that go well beyond their fragrance. In plants, they act as part of natural defense systems, offering protection against insects, animals, and environmental stress factors.
According to research published in Microbiology Spectrum, terpenes can also help shield plants from certain bacteria and fungi, showing their importance in maintaining plant health.
Each terpene has unique features that influence how it interacts with other compounds inside and outside of plants. For example, studies have looked at myrcene’s possible role in shaping the way different plant compounds work together, especially within terpene and cannabinoid profiles.
These kinds of interactions continue to spark interest among researchers and product developers who study natural ingredient synergies.
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Myrcene: An Overview
Myrcene is a terpene that occurs naturally in many plants, including hops, thyme, lemongrass, mangoes, and cannabis. It is especially notable in some cannabis varieties, particularly those with indica-leaning characteristics.
Best known for its earthy and musky aroma, myrcene often carries subtle notes of citrus, herbs, or cloves, which contribute to the layered scent profiles found in both cannabis and other botanicals.
Classified as a monoterpenoid—comprising two linked isoprene units—myrcene bears the systematic name 7-methyl-3-methylene-1,6-octadiene. It has a molecular formula of C10H16 and a relative molecular mass of approximately 136.24 g/mol. Structurally, it features a chain-like arrangement with a six-carbon backbone and an unsaturated five-carbon tail.
Throughout history, plants high in myrcene have been used in cultural traditions across regions of South America and Africa. Today, myrcene continues to be valued for its fragrance and for the way it enriches the sensory qualities of essential oils, botanical extracts, and fragrance blends.
Its unique aroma and molecular structure have made it a common ingredient in industries such as aromatherapy, perfumery, and personal care, where naturally sourced compounds are prized for their origin and appeal. Research into myrcene is ongoing, keeping it a subject of interest in both botanical studies and product development.
In cannabis, myrcene plays a role in shaping the plant’s overall profile through its interactions with cannabinoids and other terpenes. These interactions influence the layered aromas and sensory traits that distinguish different varieties.
As studies continue to investigate these dynamics, myrcene remains a key area of focus for its contribution to the distinctive qualities found in botanical and plant-based formulations.
Ongoing research into myrcene’s role across different applications is providing fresh insights, helping to expand its relevance in natural product innovation and development.
Definition and Chemical Structure of Myrcene
Myrcene derives its name from the Brazilian shrub, Myrcia sphaerocarpa, where it was first isolated in 1897. It has a pungent earthy aroma with hints of citrus and spice and can be found in several natural sources such as cannabis, hops, thyme, bay leaves, lemongrass, and mangoes.
The chemical structure of myrcene consists mainly of two methyl groups attached to the carbon chain near the end closest to the tail. This gives it its distinctive odor profile that can be described as musky or herbal with undertones ranging from fruity to minty depending on the concentration.
Common Sources of Myrcene in Nature
Myrcene is widely present in many plants, contributing to their distinct aromas. Some notable sources include:
- Hops (Humulus lupulus)
- Mangoes (Mangifera indica)
- Cannabis (Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica)
- Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Its broad presence across these plants shows its importance in shaping natural fragrance profiles. Myrcene continues to be of interest in fields such as perfumery, aromatherapy, and botanical research for the way it influences scent.
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Interaction With Other Cannabinoids and Terpenes
One of myrcene’s defining traits is how it interacts with other plant compounds within cannabis. This is often described as part of the entourage effect, where cannabinoids and terpenes combine to create a more layered influence compared to what they offer individually.
Myrcene works alongside cannabinoids and other terpenes, such as pinene and limonene, helping to shape the full aromatic and sensory experience of a cannabis variety. These synergies add to the richness and complexity of the plant’s profile, affecting scent, flavor, and applications in non-consumable products like aromatherapy blends and topicals.
Scientists continue to study these interactions, aiming to better understand how terpenes like myrcene influence overall plant characteristics and how this knowledge can inform product development.
The High Levels of Myrcene Found in Certain Cannabis Strains
Myrcene is among the most common terpenes in cannabis, though its levels vary across strains. Indica varieties often contain higher concentrations, sometimes making up as much as 60% of the terpene content. Sativa varieties usually show lower amounts.
The reasons for these differences are not fully understood, but factors such as temperature, soil, and humidity may play a role. Selective breeding can also influence terpene content, increasing or reducing levels of compounds like myrcene.
Influence on the Aroma and Flavor Profile of Cannabis
Myrcene is often described as having an earthy or musky scent with subtle notes of citrus or tropical fruit. This is a hallmark of many indica strains that test high in myrcene. Even at lower concentrations, it still contributes to the layered aroma of a strain, though less prominently.
In addition to its scent, myrcene influences flavor, often described as slightly sweet with faint hints of cloves or spice.
The Future of Myrcene Research in Cannabis
While much remains to be uncovered, early research already underscores myrcene’s importance in cannabis studies. Scientists are especially interested in how its varying levels across strains contribute to overall plant profiles.
As studies advance and regulatory landscapes shift, our understanding of how different terpene concentrations influence cannabis characteristics is expected to deepen. Myrcene’s distinctive role in aroma and plant chemistry ensures it will remain a key subject of future research.
Personal Perspective
Myrcene is a terpene that shows up in a wide variety of plants, from mangoes to hops, and of course, cannabis. As explored throughout this article, it plays a major role in shaping the aromatic and sensory qualities of these plants.
In cannabis, myrcene interacts with cannabinoids and other terpenes, helping define the plant’s full profile through what is often referred to as the entourage effect. These interactions explain much of the complexity behind strain-specific aromas and qualities.
Looking forward, research into myrcene will likely continue to grow, especially around how its varying concentrations affect cannabis profiles. By better understanding its role, researchers can deepen their knowledge of plant chemistry and improve how botanical products are developed and refined.
Though there is more to learn, myrcene already stands out as one of the most important terpenes to study for its distinct fragrance and its contribution to the identity of many plant-based products.
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This article was one of my many expert articles about terpenes. Click here to see my other articles about terpenes, cannabinoids and cannabis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is myrcene?
Myrcene is a naturally occurring monoterpene found in various plants, including cannabis, hops, lemongrass, mango, and thyme. It is best known for its earthy, musky aroma with subtle spicy and herbal undertones, and it is among the most common terpenes found in cannabis varieties.
What is myrcene believed to do?
Myrcene has been traditionally linked with a sense of calm and relaxation, particularly in the context of aromatherapy. It is also thought to play a role in the so-called “entourage effect”, a term used to describe the potential synergy between terpenes and cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.
What are the common uses of myrcene?
Myrcene is widely utilized in perfumery, aromatherapy, and cosmetic products thanks to its pleasant and distinctive scent. It is also found in various plant-based extracts and oils that are used in traditional wellness practices.
Is myrcene safe to use?
Myrcene is listed as “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food and cosmetic products. It is typically well-tolerated, although higher concentrations may cause drowsiness or mild skin irritation in some people.
What does myrcene smell and taste like?
Myrcene has an earthy, musky aroma, often complemented by hints of cloves, herbs, and fruits such as mango or grape. It contributes significantly to the characteristic scent and flavor profile of many cannabis strains.
Which plants contain myrcene besides cannabis?
In addition to cannabis, myrcene can be found in hops, lemongrass, mangoes, thyme, bay leaves, and some citrus fruits. These plants are commonly used in cooking, teas, essential oils, and natural product formulations.
Is myrcene more common in indica or sativa cannabis strains?
Myrcene is often more concentrated in indica or indica-dominant cannabis strains, which are typically associated with more grounded and mellow experiences. Nonetheless, sativa and hybrid strains may also feature notable amounts of myrcene.
Why do people choose products containing myrcene?
Myrcene-rich products are often selected for their aromatic properties, particularly by those who appreciate relaxing and earthy scents. In aromatherapy, these products are sometimes incorporated into routines designed to create a calming atmosphere.
Are there any considerations when using myrcene-rich products?
Myrcene is generally well-regarded for topical or aromatic use, but products with high concentrations—particularly those involving cannabis—may have a sedative-like effect for some individuals. It’s sensible to begin with small quantities, especially if unfamiliar with its effects.
How does myrcene interact with other compounds in cannabis?
Myrcene is believed to work in combination with other terpenes and cannabinoids, influencing the aroma, flavor, and overall sensory experience. This interaction is commonly referred to as the “entourage effect”, although the exact mechanisms are still under scientific study.
