Myrcene

TERPENE

Myrcene is usually the most abundant terpene in cannabis, and it smells earthy and musky. Beta-myrcene is the terpene many people mean when they describe cannabis as “dank”. It is also found in mango, hops and thyme, and is the subject of the popular but oversimplified “couch-lock” story.

Aroma and character

Myrcene is earthy, musky and slightly fruity, with a clove-like edge. It is a major contributor to the classic “cannabis” smell and is the dominant terpene in many modern chemovars.

What research suggests

In animal and laboratory studies, myrcene has shown sedative, muscle-relaxant and anti-inflammatory activity. This is the basis of its reputation for relaxing, “in-your-body” effects, though human evidence is limited and the popular claim that it alone causes couch-lock is an oversimplification.

Where else it is found

Myrcene is common in nature: mangoes, hops (it is central to beer aroma), lemongrass, thyme and bay leaves all contain it.

At a glance

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