Myrcene and Terpenes – the forgotten Cannabis Components

5 Essential Accessories no Cannabis Smoker should be without Reading Myrcene and Terpenes – the forgotten Cannabis Components 3 minutes Next A brief Guide to understanding Sublingual THC

Have you ever wondered why your marijuana has a musky, earthy smell? It comes from myrcene, one of the components found in cannabis that’s been overshadowed by its counterpart’s THC and CBD. But don't let this fool you; it plays a significant role in your smoking experience. However, there is much to know about this tantalizing terpene as we explain below.

What exactly is Myrcene?

Myrcene or beta myrcene (β-myrcene) is a terpene that comprises up to 50% of a marijuana plant’s terpene profile. It’s responsible for the earthy cannabis flavors and scents you’ve come to know and love. It often has a pepper-like or spicy taste that reminds you of balsam or cloves. Some of the more common fruits and herbs that contain high amounts of myrcene include bay leaves, cardamom, mango, parsley, and wild thyme.

What are Terpenes then?

Terpenes are a specific type of oil-like chemical compounds that can produce a broad range of aromas and flavors when detected by smell or taste. Terpenes are typically divided into the following two categories:

  • Monoterpenes – e.g., limonine, myrcene, etc. These are lighter terpenes (think in terms of weight) that provide floral scents such as apple, geranium, jasmine, kiwi, and rose.
  • Sesquiterpenes – these are the heavier (again, think in terms of weight) terpenes that produce more pungent scents such as diesel fuel, musk, patchouli, skunk, and tea tree.


Furthermore, combining terpenes can produce more novel or unique smells and tastes. Additionally, whether they are monoterpenes or sesquiterpenes, they are not unique to cannabis strains. In fact, you’ll find varying combinations and quantities of terpenes in all plants. Terpenes provide certain health benefits as well and can help treat:

  • anxiety
  • appetite loss
  • asthma
  • breast cancer
  • cancer
  • depression
  • gallstones
  • insomnia
  • muscle strain
  • nausea
  • stress

Yet while this doesn’t mean that you can treat all these disorders with myrcene, it does provide some very unique benefits. We understand your requirements and here are some:

Benefits of Myrcene

While CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids offer numerous mental and physical benefits, myrcene and terpenes offer certain benefits, including the following qualities:

  • anti-inflammatory
  • antioxidant
  • anti-tumor
  • sedative effects

Can You get High off Myrcene?

Not by itself, no. The only way the smoker can experience marijuana’s psychoactive effects is by consuming THC. Thus, unless you can buy a high-CBD / low-THC strain or myrcene extract, you cannot consume one without the other. Whether it’s a contact high or a high resulting from direct consumption, THC is the culprit. And if you are looking to smoke and get the luxury smoking experience, we have a range of heavy glass bongs and beakers. For more information, contact Tank Glass by visiting our website or by clicking here.

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