Myrcene Strains and Their Relaxing Powers: A Top 10 List

When it comes to sitting back and enjoying the flavor of a tasty blunt or vape hit, the credit goes to its abundance of different terpenes. They contribute to the effects and flavor of your favorite Cannabis strains, making each one unique in its own way. The most commonly found of these terpenes tends to be Myrcene (pronounced as Mur-Scene, also referred to as beta Myrcene); however, it may also be the most misunderstood.

The Myrcene terpene isn’t limited to just high myrcene marijuana strains; in fact, it can also be found in many commonly known plants like thyme, mangos, lemongrass, hops, and many more. Myrcene is responsible for the spicy, peppery fragrance in beer and is believed to have several therapeutic benefits. Many claims and myths surround the Myrcene terpene, lending to its reputation, so let’s dive in and separate the fact from the fiction.

How common is Myrcene in Cannabis?  

Out of all the terpenes found in Cannabis, Myrcene is by far the most common and abundant. Myrcene makes up over 20% of average terpene profiles in most commercial strains today and is the most dominant terpene in at least 40% of these. Mostly dominant in the Cannabis flower, strains with high levels of Myrcene are often associated with the misconception that Myrcene levels will determine whether a cultivar is indica or sativa. However, studies could not confirm this claim and instead found similar Myrcene levels across sativa, indica, and hybrid strains.

Myrcene displays incredible anti-inflammatory properties and potential sedative qualities, especially when working hand in hand with other terpenes like citral and limonene. There is much speculation and general internet chatter around Myrcene’s supposed permeability of cell membranes, most notably the blood-brain barrier; unfortunately, there’s very little substantial data to validate this.

For a more in-depth analysis of the Myrcene, check out The Science Direct for a terpene breakdown.

What does Myrcene smell and taste like? 

The aromatic profile of Beta Myrcene strains is medium in strength, lacking that overwhelming pungency many people associate with Cannabis. Its sweet, balsamic-like fragrance with hints of tree resin gives Cannabis that earthy, musky scent. Purified Myrcene has a sharp, citrusy scent with fruity tones reminiscent of mango. Much like the scent, the Myrcene taste at low concentrations is a sweet balsamic and herb blend, with a bitter grassy flavor becoming more evident at higher concentrations. 

The diverse range of plants  (and even certain insects) that Myrcene can be found in is staggering and a testament to this terpene’s overall value and diversity. For one, beer wouldn’t be the same without it since Myrcene is abundant in hops. Other plants it can be found in include cloves, lemongrass, mangos, thyme, West Indian bay tree, black pepper, basil, and oregano. Honestly, I couldn’t imagine Indian cuisine without it.

Effects of Myrcene terpene strains  

Myrcene has many outstanding properties and therapeutic benefits, and it has become a useful commodity in the commercial sector by incorporating it into many consumer products. Myrcene’s non-allergic, non-toxic, and antimutagenic properties make it a useful additive in cosmetic and medical products. It is also used in cleaning products such as air fresheners and laundry detergents.

The myrcia plant is a genus of the Myrtaceae plant family found in the Central and South American regions. Certain myrcia plants contain high levels of Myrcene (hence the name) that have been used in traditional medicines to treat various ailments such as pain, inflammation, diabetes, and diarrhea. At high doses, the Myrcene effects displayed effective sedative properties in mice, lending to the claim that Myrcene also contributes to anti-anxiety and aids in enhancing sleep but more research is needed to confirm this.

Myrcene strains may have many therapeutic effects that ease discomforts originating from various issues such as ADD/ADHD, fatigue, cancer, anorexia, arthritis, and more. There’s still much to be uncovered about Myrcene, and with more and more studies occurring, maybe we don’t have to wait too long to find out its true potential. Before we get into our top ten list of Myrcene strains, we'd like to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Myrcene weed strains.

Can Myrcene Make You Tired?

Lemongrass-infused teas can be used as a muscle relaxant and sedative, while strains high in Myrcene have been shown to have sedative effects. Studies have also been conducted on mice, showing that Myrcene could increase barbiturate sleeping time.

What is a Terpene? 

Terpenes are natural chemical compounds that occur in plants, insects, and fish. They are unsaturated hydrocarbons that determine a plant or herb’s unique scents. Terpenes have become commonly associated with Cannabis due to the high concentrations found within the Cannabis plant, even in low Myrcene strains. Terpenes play a role in attracting pollinators and repelling predators, aiding in plant damage recovery and boosting its immune system.

The Mango Myth

You’ve more than likely found yourself in a backyard blunt circle listening to some scrawny stoner tell you about weed strains with Myrcene and the incredible high-enhancing powers of mangos. The claim is that eating mangos before smoking weed could elevate your buzz and get you higher than a mango tree or something like that. (I was too busy sucking a mango seed to hear the rest) But the truth is, despite how tasty and nutritious mangos may be, there’s no evidence to back up that particular claim.

It’s hard to say where the fable started, yet we can speculate that because Myrcene is present in some mangos and Myrcene-heavy strains, people just conflated the two, and the rumor snowballed from there. So, as much as mangos may be a fresh, healthy snack option for when the munchies strike, they certainly aren’t going to pump up your high. For that, you’ll need better weed.

Tips for growing Cannabis that’s high in Myrcene terpenes

If it’s not for the pleasant buzz, it’s gotta be the sweet, pungent fragrance and flavor of a freshly crushed nugget that keeps us coming back for one more bong hit. And it’s even better if you can cash in on the bragging rights of growing such stanky dank. So here are a couple of tips to remember if you intend to grow Myrcene-dominant strains.

1. Choosing the right Myrcene terpenes strains with strong genetics is the best place to start. There’s a plethora of strains, all with unique terpene compositions, so find a strain with the terpene profile you’re after and avoid hemp strains with low Myrcene.
2. Be sure to give your plants enough light. Whether you’re growing indoors or outdoors, using a combination of correct lighting(or sunlight) and low-stress training will improve light exposure to promote healthy plants and increase production, resulting in higher terpene levels. Utilizing a PPFD light meter can help you manage your light exposure for indoor cultivation.
3. If you give your plants a healthy diet, they’ll produce a stronger yield. Many growers utilize nutrient additives to increase their plants’ growth, enhancing terpene production. If you like to keep it au naturel, a well-managed compost heap can create the perfect soil nutrient balance needed for your plants to thrive.

The Ten Best Myrcene Strains to Grow at Home

Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes found in marijuana plants. It is known to provide calming effects and has long been used as a muscle relaxer and sleep aid throughout history.

White Widow

White Widow has carved its name in the minds and hearts of consumers worldwide and needs little introduction. It’s also one of the Cannabis strains high in Myrcene.

White Widow feminized seeds

You looking for a relaxing smoke to unlock your conversational and creative side? You are going to love our White Widow seeds!

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This easy-to-grow strain is loved for being a high-yielder that also comes in CBD and autoflower options. Get it quick since it rarely stays on the shelf.

White Widow cultivar profile

OG Kush

OG Kush may be a small plant, but it has big potential as one of the best Myrcene strains.

OG Kush feminized seeds

OG Kush produces a mood-elevating, heavy euphoria making it great for people looking to wash away stress. Its blend of 75% indica and 25% sativa brings a balance between physical and mental experience.

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This easy-growing strain is loaded with Myrcene, Limonene, and Caryophyllene. It comes in a CBD and autoflower version.

OG Kush cultivar profile

AK-47

The award-winning AK-47 is one of the strains high in Myrcene and Caryophyllene. It has long been a bestseller, loved for its strong highs and bold flavor. It’s known for being fairly easy to grow and having a fast flowering time. AK-47 is also available in an autoflower option.

AK-47 feminized seeds

AK-47 may sound aggressive, but it is a really mellow, chilled-out strain. AK-47 seeds grow a feminized, sativa-dominant plant with a long-lasting, steady buzz.

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AK-47 cultivar profile

Harlequin

Harlequin is a sativa-dominant strain commonly used for pain and cramps due to its high CBD content.

Harlequin feminized seeds

Harlequin is a sativa-dominant hybrid offering the best sativa and indica qualities. This strain delivers very effective medicinal uses with its reasonably high CBD levels.

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It’s one of those strains high in Myrcene and Limonene. It is known to grow fast with a strong resilience to challenging climates.

Harlequin cultivar profile

Critical Mass

This indica-dominant heavy-hitter hybrid is the perfect nighttime treat for boosting your mood and falling asleep fifteen minutes into a movie.

Critical Mass feminized seeds

Critical Mass is particularly known for having high levels of CBD, making it an excellent choice for those who want to relieve their symptoms and still be able to function.

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Critical Mass is one of those strains with Myrcene that’s also easy to grow with generous yields, making it a sweet deal for beginner growers. It also comes in a CBD version.

Critical Mass cultivar profile

Tangie

Tangie is a sativa dominant descendant of Cali orange known for its energetic highs and sweet, tropical citrus flavor due to high levels of Myrcene and Limonene. Reaping the best harvests will require a moderate amount of cultivating expertise.

Tangie feminized seeds

Tangie is an award-winning sativa-dominant hybrid strain with coveted genetics. Tangie's high THC content ranges from 15 to 20%, making it ideal for both experienced and beginner Cannabis lovers.

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Tangie cultivar profile

Blue Dream

The Blue Dream strain is a Californian-made sativa-dominant hybrid with a medium to high THC content. This high Myrcene strain has long been a best seller and a popular choice amongst smokers and distributors alike.

Blue Dream feminized seeds

Without a doubt, Blue Dream seeds are one of the most popular marijuana strains in the U.S. Blue Dream gives that 'Cool West Coast Vibe' high sativa-dominant hybrids are known for.

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Blue Dream can generate large yields; however, it has a finicky nature, so you’ll need a fair amount of cultivation knowledge.

Blue Dream cultivar profile

Granddaddy Purple

This indica-dominant strain stems from Hindu Kush and is the perfect option for unwinding at the end of the day. Granddaddy Purple is a flavorful smoke with its leading terpenes being Myrcene, Limonene, and Caryophyllene.

Granddaddy Purple feminized seeds

This is a product of crossbreeding Purple Urkle and Big Bud, two popular indica strains! If you love indica strains, you are going to fall head over heels in love as this bad grandpa is a 100% PURE indica!

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It also has a medium to high THC content. Grandaddy Purple is an easy-to-grow weed strain high in Myrcene and small to medium in height. Try it as an autoflower for reliable yields.

Granddaddy Purple cultivar profile

Bubba Kush

Bubba Kush is an award-winning strain with a heavy indica nature and a high THC level.

Bubba Kush feminized seeds

Bubba Kush seeds have gained worldwide attention among both the recreational and medical Cannabis communities. For those fighting the effects of stress, this is the go-to strain of choice.

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This Myrcene strain thrives in warm, dry climates, but ultimately, indoors will grant cultivators the highest degree of control since it can be susceptible to mold.

Bubba Kush cultivar profile

Mango Kush

Potent, easy to grow, and fast flowering are three qualities of a winning strain, and Mango Kush delivers on all accounts.

Mango Kush feminized seeds

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This indica-dominant Myrcene weed strain produces small plants with a big punch. It can be grown outdoors; however, it thrives best indoors.

Mango Kush cultivar profile

In Conclusion

Myrcene is a powerful terpene surrounded by speculation and rumors. But myths aside, it has many uses and beneficial effects, not to mention delicious flavors and aromas. And since it is abundantly available in nature, it’s found in many easy-to-grow strains. Though, as always, for the best shot at growing strong Myrcene terpenes strains, grow the best seeds.