Cannabis Basics

Myrcene Terpene: Effects, Flavours and Cannabis Strains

Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes — it’s found in the vast majority of cannabis strains

Last updated May 7, 2025 | Published on January 18, 2021

Terpene Spotlight: Myrcene

Our terpene spotlight is an in-depth exploration of the 5 most common terpenes found in cannabis: pinene, limonene, linalool and beta-caryophyllene.

 

As a quick reminder: Terpenes are fragrant oils found in plants (not just cannabis) that produce a unique taste and smell. Which plants get their telltale aromas from myrcene? How is it used commercially? What properties does myrcene have when consumed? All this, plus shopping tips and strain recommendations are in this chapter of our terpene series. 

What does myrcene smell like?

Myrcene is a pungent terpene that gives cannabis an earthy, fruity and musky aroma. The scent profile’s metallic sharpness and sweet woody notes can range from a little herbal to intense and resinous in different concentrations. Because of its widespread presence in nature, myrcene is both in the bright and easygoing smells of an orchard or herb garden, and in the dank, dark green smells of the forest.

What does myrcene taste like?

Myrcene has a uniquely complex and versatile flavour profile that adapts to enhance and complement many different flavours in cuisines. You might detect its bitterness in beers, muskiness in tropical fruits, or herbal depth in savory spice blends. Some flavours from nature that feature myrcene include:  

  • mango
  • guava  
  • hops
  • lemongrass
  • cloves  
  • cardamom  
  • thyme  
  • basil  
  • ginger  
  • echinacea  

Where is myrcene found?

Myrcene is a monoterpene, it's simple chemical structure makes it a building block for other, more complex terpenes. Like other terpenes explored in this series, plants employ myrcene as a defence mechanism against pathogens and animals. 
Myrcene is naturally volatile and can easily evaporate at room temperature, which is why cannabis strains high in myrcene are especially fragrant during their flowering phase. This volatility also means myrcene needs to be stabilized by antioxidants like vitamin E and alkylphenols when used in products.

  • beer
  • lemongrass tea
  • real and artificial mango flavours 
  • pesto
  • household cleaners and air fresheners 
  • warm, citrus and spicy perfume and colognes
  • chai

What are the reported effects of myrcene?

Myrcene, named after the Brazilian shrub myrcia sphaerocarpa, has been used in traditional medicine to treat health concerns like diabetes, stomach issues and inflammation. However, these applications haven’t been supported by modern science. 

Human data is limited, but one preliminary study suggested that cannabis oil high in myrcene may increase energy as well as feelings of calm and relaxation. 

The bottom line: here isn’t enough research to link the amount of myrcene in a strain to the health effects outlined above. You can use a strain’s terpene profile to choose your favourite aroma or taste. 
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