December 6, 2022

Myrcene: Terpene Highlight

Myrcene is an alkene natural hydrocarbon that is classified as an acyclic monoterpene. Myrcene and other monoterpenes act as the building blocks for other more complex terpenes. It is often observed in the isomers alpha-myrcene and beta-myrcene which can be differentiated by the location of the double carbon bond. Myrcene can be found in a significant amount of plants including many herbs, spices, and fruits. It has been found to have anti-inflammatory and sedative effects that make it useful in addition to its fragrance and flavoring applications. The aroma of Myrcene can be described as musky and earthy with slightly fruity notes.

Benefits

Myrcene has been found to have soothing benefits for both the body and mind. It may work to uplift the mood and give a boost of positivity when negative emotions creep in. Myrcene is believed to combat the onset of stress and anxiety while encouraging feelings of relaxation. These relaxing benefits may also help to improve sleep quality by helping the body fall asleep faster and experience fewer interruptions throughout the night. Myrcene is known to help ease pain and soothe skin irritation and swelling by working to reduce inflammation. It can also support a healthy immune system with antioxidant, antibiotic, and antimicrobial properties that help to avoid illness.

Essential Oils Containing Myrcene

Thyme Essential Oil can contain anywhere from 2-40% Myrcene. Thyme has been found to encourage confidence and positive emotions while easing feelings of stress and anxiety. It may also help to relax the body and ease muscle and joint pain while working to enhance sleep onset and quality.

Lemongrass Essential Oil has been found to contain between 5-30% Myrcene. Lemongrass is believed to relieve tension and anxiety while promoting an overall sense of calm. It is also known to help to ease pain, reduce fevers and ease inflammation that may be caused by infection or injury.

Juniper Berry Essential Oil generally contains around 3-20% Myrcene. Juniper Berry has been found to calm the mind and ease feelings of stress while keeping emotions in balance. It is also known to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system to help support the body through times of illness.

Rosemary Essential Oil contains a small amount of Myrcene, around 1-5%. Rosemary may help to reduce stress levels and alleviate anxiety to uplift negative moods. It is believed to boost the immune system by stimulating the body’s natural detoxification system while also reducing inflammation, helping it to relieve muscle aches and pains.

Sweet Orange Essential Oil can be found to contain around 1-4% Myrcene. Sweet Orange may work to uplift the mood and diminish negative thoughts for a calming and relaxing effect. It is known to stimulate the immune system and ease inflammation to help soothe pain and combat illness.

Check out some DIY recipes below using essential oils containing Myrcene...

Positively Chill Mood Balancing Roll On

There are times when stress and intense emotions can overwhelm our minds and send us into a spiral of negativity. Myrcene in Rosemary and Lemongrass essential oils may help to calm our minds and encourage an uplifted mood so we can return to a positive mindset.

Ingredients

Instructions

Add the essential oils to the bottle. Fill the rest of the bottle to the top with fractionated coconut oil. Replace the rollerball and cap, gently shake, and roll across your skin.

Rest & Relaxation Bath Bomb

After a long and physically draining day, it can be difficult to soothe our aching bodies enough to get to sleep. Myrcene in Juniper Berry, Sweet Orange, and Thyme essential oils can work to reduce pain while relaxing the body and mind for a night of rest and relaxation.

Ingredients

Witch Hazel in a Misting Spray Bottle
Hard Plastic or Metal Molds
2 cups of Citric Acid
4 cups of Baking Soda
2oz of Sweet Almond Oil
10 drops of Juniper Berry Essential Oil
10 drops of Sweet Orange Essential Oil
10 drops of Thyme Essential Oil

Instructions

Combine all the citric acid, baking soda, sweet almond oil, and essential oils in a bowl and mix well using gloved hands. Spritz a small amount of witch hazel onto the top of the powder mixture and stir it in. Repeat this process until the mixture packs together easily with a similar texture to wet sand. Scoop the mixture into each mold one at a time and pack them down tightly. Allow them to dry for at least 24 hours. Store them in an airtight container. While running water, drop one into the bath and allow it to fully dissolve.

Active Recovery Massage Oil

A long run or intense hike can feel great at the moment but may leave our muscles and even our skin feeling sore or irritated. Myrcene in Rosemary, Thyme, and Juniper Berry essential oils may help to combat inflammation and reduce pain to get us back on the move again.

Ingredients

Instructions

Add all ingredients to a 4-ounce amber glass bottle and shake vigorously to combine. Pour a small amount into your hands and massage into swollen or inflamed areas. Store in a cool, dark location out of the reach of children and pets.