Glossary
Myrcene
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The most abundant terpene in many cannabis strains; associated with sedating, "couch-lock" effects in popular framing.
Myrcene is one of the most abundant monoterpenes in cannabis and is also found in mango, hops, lemongrass, and thyme. It is associated in popular framing with the sedating "couch-lock" effect of indica-leaning strains, though the controlled-clinical evidence linking myrcene specifically to sedation is limited.
In the entourage-effect hypothesis, myrcene is proposed to enhance blood-brain-barrier permeability and modulate cannabinoid effects. In practice, terpene profiles are a secondary consideration in SA Section 21 prescribing — the cannabinoid ratio (THC:CBD) and dose are the primary clinical levers. Patients who report differential effects between strains with similar cannabinoid content but different terpene profiles are not necessarily wrong, but the evidence base for terpene-targeted prescribing is still emerging.
Related terms
- TerpenesAromatic compounds in cannabis (and many other plants) that shape flavour and may modulate cannabinoid effects.
- Beta-caryophylleneA common terpene with selective CB2-receptor activity — bridging the terpene–cannabinoid distinction.
- Indica vs SativaTraditional strain classification with limited clinical relevance — cannabinoid and terpene profile matter more.