Myrcene Degradation

Myrcene degradation refers to the chemical breakdown of myrcene, a sesquiterpene commonly found in cannabis flowers, during storage, drying, and curing processes. This terpene is often one of the most abundant volatile compounds in fresh cannabis tissue, but its concentration typically declines over time due to oxidation and thermal exposure. Breeders and cultivators studying terpene preservation have documented that myrcene loss accelerates under heat, light, and extended storage periods. Understanding myrcene stability is relevant to breeding programs focused on terpene retention and to cultivation methods designed to maintain volatile compound profiles. This degradation process is a key consideration in post-harvest handling protocols within the cannabis industry.

Breeders working in terpene-stable genetics often select for cultivars that maintain myrcene concentration through harvest and curing cycles. Knowledge of myrcene degradation kinetics informs storage research and helps guide the development of preservation techniques across the supply chain.