Terpene Tuesday: Myrcene
The classic, the most talked about, the most hyped up. But why? Well if you don’t know, we’ll let you in on a little secret, myrcene elevates your high to new levels. The hype is real.
Why we love it
Myrcene is a little spicy, savoury and earthy, with primary aromatic notes of clove and secondary notes of hops or musk. Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes, and well renowned because of its ability to increase the effects of active cannabinoids. A whopping 43 per cent of all cannabis in our stores have myrcene as a top three terpene.
The science
The effects of terpenes are definitely not just placebo, they're backed by science. Myrcene makes the blood-brain barrier more permeable to cannabis, or in other words, enhances your experience by allowing for greater saturation of the CB1 receptors.
Now myrcene does make the blood-brain barrier more susceptible to all active cannabinoids, but it’s more complementary to THC rather than CBD because of the psychoactive and cerebral experience associated with THC.
Myrcene is readily found in nature. It can be found in mangoes, hops, bay laurel leaves, thyme, lemongrass and basil. Myrcene from cannabis isn’t the only way to enhance your high, non-cannabis sources works the exact same way. One age-old trick is to consume an overripe mango 30 minutes before consuming cannabis. An overripe mango contains high levels of myrcene which will help bolster the cerebral effects of THC. Delicious snack plus enhanced effects? You don’t have to tell us twice.
Here are some of our favourite strains with myrcene.
7Acres Jack Haze
San Rafael Pink Kush (Vape & Flower)
Canna Farms GSC
Qwest Reserve Death Bubba
There are also some wonderful mid-range strains containing myrcene that give a great effect without knocking your socks off. The myrcene bumps up the experience but isn’t over-powering. This is a great tip for budget-conscious consumers. High THC strains command the highest dollar. Mid-range strains tend to be much more economical. Myrcene can add more bang for your buck and bring out the active cannabinoids in strains you may have overlooked.
Caliber Barry White
HEXO Atlantis
Cove Reflect Reserve
Haven St. Couch Surf
San Rafael Tangerine Dream
If you haven’t experienced the magic of myrcene, here’s your gentle nudge to explore its effects!
