Myrcene: effects, benefits and applications of terpene

Have you ever heard of myrcene? Maybe not, but you've probably heard of it - it's found in mangoes and basil, for example. And it does much more than just smell good! In this blog, I'll tell you what myrcene actually is, why it's so important in the cannabis world and why it should perhaps appear in your life more often than you think.

What is myrcene? - An introduction to the terpene world

Okay, let's talk about Myrcene. You might be asking yourself, "Myrcene? What is that supposed to be?" Don't worry, you're not alone. You may have caught the scent of a mango in your nose or the fresh smell of basil - and zack, there was Myrcene. 🙃

Myrcene is a terpene - yes, one of those chemical wizards that give plants their scent. Think of all the aromas you notice in everyday life: Citrus, lavender, and even mangoes and basil. And among all these plant friends, myrcene is one of the stars. It became particularly well known through cannabis because it is found in many varieties of marijuana. But myrcene is much more than just a "cannabis guest". It's also hiding in hops (yes, in your beer!) and other plants.

Why is Myrcene so exciting now? 🤔 Well, not only does it have a great scent, but it could also have a whole range of effects that influence your wellbeing. But before we get to the "super rad benefits", let's get this out of the way first: Myrcene is a bit like the secret hero of the plant world - always there, but not always in the spotlight. 🌱

The chemical structure of myrcene - beta myrcene and co.

Okay, now it's getting a little bit chemical, but don't worry, we'll keep it light. Myrcene is a terpene, and like almost all terpenes, it has a very special chemical structure. It's a bit like a handmade jigsaw puzzle where the pieces fit together perfectly - and if you put it together correctly, you get that signature scent that is Myrcene. Put simply, it's an organic compound made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atoms. Sounds like a bit of science, doesn't it? But basically, this structure is what makes Myrcene so intensely fragrant - especially in warm weather, when plants are particularly keen to release their fragrances.

Now, before you wonder what all this has to do with you, here's the kicker: there is not only Myrcene as such, but also the somewhat more specialised variant, the so-called Beta Myrcene. Yes, a bit like Myrcene's cool, wacky brother, which is said to have a particularly strong effect on the body. Many think that Beta Myrcene plays the bigger role when it comes to the calming and pain-relieving effects we often experience with cannabis. But what exactly does that mean? Well, Beta Myrcene isn't just a 'scent', it has it all when it comes to how it affects our bodies.

Whether beta or simply myrcene - both variants are what make the whole thing work so well in nature. They help plants repel insects or attract other plants (and that's super handy for nature, of course!). But, and this is the interesting thing, the human body also reacts to them. There are studies that suggest that myrcene and beta myrcene not only make up the scent, but can also affect our mood. So the next time you sniff a mango or savour a bit of cannabis, remember: these little molecules can do more for you than you can imagine.

Sounds crazy, doesn't it? And yet that's exactly what makes these compounds so exciting - they're like the silent helpers working in the background, often having much more influence than we give them credit for.

Myrcene effect: how does it influence us?

Now it's getting exciting! Because Myrcene not only has a pleasant fragrance, it also has a lot going for it when it comes to its effects. And no, you don't have to be a chemistry genius to understand this - all you need to do is be curious and open your eyes a little. 🧐

In essence, Myrcene has some remarkable effects that can not only help us relax, but also relieve pain and even calm inflammation. Here is an overview of what exactly Myrcene could do for us:

Soothing & relaxing: Myrcene has the ability to relax our muscles and calm our mood. This could be one reason why myrcene is found in many relaxing cannabis strains - it helps to achieve a pleasant chill mode. 😌

Pain-relieving: Some studies suggest that myrcene has a pain-relieving effect. This could explain why it also provides relief from chronic pain or muscle tension for some people.

Anti-inflammatory: Myrcene has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it could help with conditions such as arthritis or other inflammation-related diseases. 🏃♀️

Promotes the "entourage effect" in cannabis: In combination with other cannabinoids such as THC, myrcene enhances the so-called entourage effect. This means that it can enhance the effect of cannabis on our body by facilitating the absorption of certain substances in the body. 🌿

Improved sleep quality: Some report that Myrcene helps them sleep better - and it's no wonder. With its calming effect on the body, it could help ease the transition into a restful sleep. 🛌

So basically, Myrcene is an all-rounder - the natural helper that can assist us in many ways. From pain relief to relaxation, this terpene offers a wide range of benefits that can vary depending on the application and mixture with other ingredients. And best of all, it comes straight from nature. 🌱

Myrcene in the cannabis world: why it's so important

Okay, let's talk about myrcene and cannabis. You know, the stuff that makes many of us relax and makes one plant or another seem pretty cool. But what's Myrcene got to do with it? Quite a lot, if you ask me! 😎

Myrcene isn't just a supporting actor. It's one of those inconspicuous guys in the background who secretly saves the whole film - without making a big fuss, but with enormous impact. You've probably heard that it's not just THC and CBD that play a role in cannabis, right? Myrcene takes care of how the whole story plays out.

• The entourage effect: Have you ever heard of this fancy term? The entourage effect simply means that all the components of the cannabis plant work together and reinforce each other. And myrcene plays a huge role here. When it's present in a strain, it can make the THC work that little bit harder. So you can have a more intense, relaxing experience - without being totally flat. 🛋️
• The body feels it: When you consume cannabis with a higher myrcene content, you often notice that you feel your muscles and mind really come down. It's this relaxing, almost calming vibe that frees you from the stress of everyday life. No wonder Myrcene is found in most indica strains. These strains are known to relax the body and help you sink into a deep sleep. 💤
• Indica or sativa - what does myrcene have to do with it? If you've ever wondered why indica strains are often more relaxing than sativa strains, myrcene is often the reason. This plant can enhance the calming effect you'd expect from a typical indica - whereas sativa strains tend to give that energising, creative kick. Myrcene is simply not the "high" type, but more the "chill" type. 🌱
• The flavour and aroma: Oh, and then there's the smell. The aroma of cannabis that you perceive - that earthy, slightly spicy scent - is often myrcene doing its job. It's as if myrcene makes the flavour a little rounder and more complete, so that you not only feel the effect, but can also "dive" a little on the flavour level. 🍃

Summarised: Myrcene is an invisible hero in the world of cannabis. It helps to direct the effect on the body, enhances the effect of THC and ensures that you get the right vibe - whether relaxing or falling asleep. It's the unagitated but incredibly valuable buddy that makes sure all the fun runs smoothly. 🦸♂️

Myrcene in aromatherapy and perfumery

Okay, so myrcene is not only the coolest mate in the cannabis world, but also a true all-rounder when it comes to relaxation. Have you ever lit an essential oil and immediately felt calmer? That could be Myrcene behind it. It's like that secret helper that fills the room with a warm, almost soothing scent that helps you shake all that stress off your shoulder. 🌿

In aromatherapy, Myrcene is like a secret superhero. If you've ever worked with essential oils, then you've probably experienced the relaxing feeling that comes from oils like basil or lemongrass. These plants contain myrcene and help to instantly put you into chill mode. For many, this is exactly what is needed after a long day at work: a little myrcene and you can almost feel the stress disappearing from your body. 😌

And then there's perfumery. Who would have thought that Myrcene has a hand in this too? Perfumers use it to refine fragrances and give them a deep, almost earthy note. Myrcene helps to ensure that the fragrance does not simply remain "fleeting", but lasts longer and harmonises with other aromas. It is as if Myrcene "supports" the perfume in a subtle way and ensures that you don't just smell the first spritz, but keep noticing the fragrance throughout the day. 🌸

So, Myrcene is not only known for its effects in cannabis, but also in the world of fragrances and essential oils. It makes you relax, let go of the world for a moment and just be in the moment. If that's not the perfect recipe for a little feel-good time, I don't know what is. 😉