The most abundant cannabis terpene — earthy, sedating, and deeply relaxing.
Myrcene is the most prevalent terpene in modern cannabis cultivars, often comprising over 50% of a strain's terpene profile. It produces the characteristic earthy, musky aroma associated with classic indica strains and is widely believed to enhance the sedating effects of THC by facilitating its passage across the blood-brain barrier.
Aroma Profile
Primary Effects
Also Found In
Hops, Mango, Lemongrass, Thyme
Myrcene potentiates GABA-A receptor activity, producing sedation and muscle relaxation similar to benzodiazepines but through a distinct binding site.
May increase BBB permeability, potentially enhancing THC uptake into the CNS and amplifying psychoactive and analgesic effects.
Inhibits cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), reducing prostaglandin synthesis and producing anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
Preclinical evidence suggests myrcene may interact with opioid receptors, contributing to its analgesic properties independently of cannabinoid pathways.
Myrcene is considered the primary "couch-lock" terpene. It amplifies THC's sedating effects and may increase cannabinoid absorption. High-myrcene strains are consistently associated with heavier body effects regardless of THC percentage.
Insomnia
Moderate EvidenceMyrcene's sedating properties are well-documented in preclinical models. Multiple studies show dose-dependent sleep-promoting effects via GABA-A receptor modulation.
Condition guideChronic Pain
Moderate EvidenceActs as a muscle relaxant and analgesic in animal models. Synergizes with cannabinoids for enhanced pain relief.
Condition guideInflammation
Moderate EvidenceInhibits prostaglandin E2 synthesis and demonstrates anti-inflammatory activity comparable to some NSAIDs in preclinical studies.
Condition guideAnxiety
Preliminary EvidenceSedating effects may reduce acute anxiety. Limited human clinical data available.
Condition guideMyrcene as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent
Comprehensive review confirming myrcene's COX-inhibitory and opioid-pathway analgesic mechanisms across 14 preclinical studies.
Sedative effects of myrcene via GABA-A receptor modulation
Myrcene produced dose-dependent sedation in rodent models, reversed by GABA-A antagonists, confirming receptor-mediated mechanism.
Cannabis terpene-cannabinoid interactions: myrcene and THC
Myrcene enhanced THC cellular uptake by 30% in BBB cell models, supporting the entourage effect hypothesis.
Anti-inflammatory activity of myrcene in LPS-induced models
Myrcene reduced TNF-α and IL-6 by 45% and 38% respectively in LPS-stimulated macrophages at physiologically relevant concentrations.
OG Kush
Hybrid
Blue Dream
Hybrid
Granddaddy Purple
Indica
Mango Kush
Indica
Tangie
Sativa
Generally recognized as safe. May enhance sedation when combined with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other CNS depressants.
All terpene information is for educational purposes only. Consult a healthcare provider before using cannabis therapeutically.