Is Myrcene More Indica or Sativa?

Myrcene is not considered indica or sativa because those terms refer to plant biology and not effects. Confused? Keep reading for all the answers

Yes, we’re still talking about the indica/sativa drama. That’s because the whole conversation around these terms is getting out of hand. In some ways, they’ve been helpful for new cannabis consumers because it gives them language to help shop for products with specific effects. We understand the desire for such categorization… but if they’re not accurate, then they’re doing more harm than good.

That’s why we really have to put our foot down when people ask if specific terpenes are “indica terpenes” or “sativa terpenes.” Sure, we’ve used these terms in the past because we wanted to be part of ongoing cannabis conversations. However, since these terms refer to plant biology, placing terpenes into these categories makes absolutely no sense.

So, let’s clear the air and explain why Myrcene is not considered indica or sativa. 

Myrcene is NOT Indica OR Sativa

Terpenes are hydrocarbons naturally produced by most plants. In nature, they play an important evolutionary role. Some plants rely on them to lure pollinators, deter predators, protect them from pathogens, etc. When we encounter terpenes, they interact with us and promote various effects. 

The unique terpene profiles plants produce explains the wide variety of aromas and effects from botanical sources. It’s also why different cannabis cultivars produce such wildly different effects. 

The reason this is important is twofold. First, when people ask whether Myrcene is more indica or sativa, they’re often REALLY asking whether it’s more sedating or stimulating. So, the question itself is kind of problematic. Second, the terms indica and sativa don’t actually have anything to do with effects. They more accurately refer to cannabis plant structures.

Cannabis plants that are shorter with thicker stems and broader, darker leaves are almost always categorized as indica. Sativa plants, on the other hand, are usually taller with narrower leaves. There are additional features that separate them, but that’s the gist of it. 

Myrcene, along with almost every other terpene isolate, isn’t exclusively found in one of those categories. That means Myrcene is neither indica nor sativa. 

Myrcene Contributes to Cannabis Effects

While terpenes won’t get you high since they’re not psychoactive, they do contribute to the sensorial effects you experience when using cannabis products. 

This actually occurs when you interact with terpenes from almost any botanical source. For example, the d-Limonene found in citrus fruits can elevate your mood, and the Linalool found in lavender can have a calming effect. The combination of terpenes and cannabinoids, however, tends to create more pronounced sensations (also known as the Entourage Effect).

Each terpene has its own unique list of properties that interact with us and promote various sensorial effects, and Myrcene is known for its sedative properties. Plants that produce large amounts of Myrcene have been used for centuries as sleep aids. Scientists have even noted that when Myrcene is combined with THC, the sedative properties are potent enough to create a couch-lock effect. Yes, they actually used that term.

Myrcene Contributes to Cannabis Aroma

Obviously, we won’t have a conversation about terpenes and NOT mention the unique aroma of Myrcene. Commonly found in lemongrass, thyme, basil, and juicy mangos, Myrcene has a complex aroma. The scent is an intense partnership between spice and citrus. It smells profoundly earthy, woody, and there are distinct notes of cloves, cardamom, fruit, and musk.

You might already be familiar with its aroma if you’re a fan of hoppy beers. Out of the hundreds of oils that are found in hops, it’s almost always the most dominant. It directly impacts a beer’s flavor, too. Hops that are high in Myrcene are usually found in dry-hopped beers that are floral and fruity. If a beer smells “hoppy,” it likely has lots of this terpene.

Myrcene Dominant Cultivars

Speaking of things with lots of Myrcene, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention a few of our favorite Myrcene-dominant cannabis cultivars. 

Outer Space

Originating from Island Sweet Skunk and Trinity, the Outer Space cultivar is Myrcene-dominant and delicately skunky. Soft notes of wood are elevated with bright notes of citrus and sweet berries for an aroma that’s out of this world. 

Hippie Crasher

With such an intensely fruity aroma, it’s no surprise that Hippie Crasher has lots of Myrcene. Parents Kush Mints and Wedding Crasher give this cultivar an exquisitely dank aroma that’s exotic and relaxing.

Dynasty OG

Descended from the one and only OG Kush, Dynasty OG inherited a significant level of dankness. Along with dominant terpenes d-Limonene and beta-Pinene, Myrcene helps craft an aroma with regal elements of pine, citrus, and earth.

Get Your Indica/Sativa Terms Straight

We get it. The cannabis industry has been using these terms, often incorrectly, for a very long time. However, in order for cannabis businesses to thrive, it’s our responsibility to promote education and transparency. 

Terpene Isolate

SHOP beta-Myrcene

beta-Myrcene is a prevalent terpene in hops, mango, bay leaves, lemongrass, and eucalyptus. The flavor is a strong sweetness with minty balsam and a vegetal leafy feel. 

Myrcene-Dominant Profiles

SHOP Outer Space

Sure, astronauts travel to low Earth orbit, but Outer Space is a whole different story. Soft woody aromas combine with surprisingly light notes of skunk. Subtle hints of citrus and berries infuse it with a delicate sweetness.

SHOP Hippie Crasher

Modeled after a truly wacky rosin, Hippie Crasher is exotically fruity and exquisitely dank. As a cross between Kush Mints and Wedding Crasher, with 370 different aroma compounds, there's a lot going on under the hood.

SHOP Dynasty OG

Dynasty OG has inherited all of the authoritative dankness of its OG Kush lineage. Regal elements of pine, citrus, and earth merge with loud gassy aromas to inspire loyalty, relaxation, and respect for the OG.