Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in hemp, and it is a big reason many strains smell earthy, musky and herbal. This guide explains what myrcene is, where it is found and what it contributes to CBD flower. It is information only, and we make no medical or health claims.
What is myrcene?
Myrcene is a terpene, a natural aromatic compound found throughout the plant world. It is often the most common terpene in hemp, which is why it plays such a large role in the aroma of many strains. Myrcene is also found in mangoes, hops, thyme and lemongrass. To understand how terpenes shape a strain, see our guide on what CBD flower smells and tastes like.
What does myrcene smell like?
Myrcene has an earthy, musky, slightly herbal and fruity aroma. It is the deep, rich, almost balsamic note you notice in many classic strains. Where limonene is bright and citrusy, myrcene is grounded and earthy, and the two often appear together.
Where is myrcene found?
- Hemp and cannabis: frequently the most abundant terpene.
- Mangoes: a well-known dietary source.
- Hops: part of what gives beer its aroma.
- Herbs: thyme and lemongrass among others.
Myrcene in CBD flower
Because myrcene is so common, many hemp strains carry an earthy, musky base note from it. Classic, earthy strains often feature a strong myrcene presence, while sweeter or fruitier strains balance it with other terpenes. Explore earthy profiles across our CBD flower range, and read about the science in our terpene deep dive.
Is myrcene safe?
Myrcene is a naturally occurring compound found in common foods like mangoes and hops, and it is widely used as a food flavouring. We make no medical or health claims about myrcene or any terpene, and terpene research is ongoing.
How to preserve myrcene
Like all terpenes, myrcene fades with heat, light and air. Store your flower airtight, cool and dark to keep that earthy aroma. See our guides on storage and flower freshness.
Frequently asked questions
Is myrcene the most common terpene in hemp?
It often is. Myrcene is frequently the dominant terpene in many hemp and cannabis strains.
Does eating mango affect CBD?
This is a popular anecdote because mangoes contain myrcene, but we make no claims about it. Terpene research is ongoing.
Does myrcene indicate strength?
No. Myrcene relates to aroma, not CBD content. Always check the COA.
The bottom line
Myrcene is the earthy, musky terpene found in mangoes, hops and many hemp strains, and it is often hemp's most abundant terpene. It gives CBD flower its grounded, herbal base note. Store your flower well to preserve it.
Written and reviewed by the Easygreen CBD team, UK hemp specialists. Reviewed and updated: July 2026. General information only. We make no medical or health claims about any terpene or CBD product.




