The Spicy Terpene: Caryophyllene
What Is the Beta-Caryophyllene Terpene & Why It Matters?
If you’re just entering the world of cannabis terpenes, you might have run into the beta-caryophyllene terpene. Its unique aromatic properties and fragrance profile are spicier than most, but there is much more to this terpene than a bit of pepper.
This terpene has a nearly unmatched flair. You’ll find it in countless herbs and spices among many other vegetative species. As a cannabis connoisseur, it’s important to understand the plants you’re consuming and how these flavor and aromatic profiles enhance your experience.
Whether you’re wondering will terpenes get you high or if you just want to explore how this particular terpene operates in your body, in this post we’re going to break it down for you in complete detail.
Let’s get started.
Caryophyllene’s Complete Terpene Profile
The terpene caryophyllene is also called beta-caryophyllene or BCP. It is found in countless spices, herbs, and even aromatic oils. Some of the most common include black pepper, basil, oregano, cloves, hops, and cinnamon. Certain cannabis strains with a spicy, warm undertone, have high concentrations of caryophyllene. Most people associate its fragrance with a somewhat pungent cracked pepper scent.
One of the most interesting things about caryophyllene is that it has a unique relationship with our endocannabinoid system. Researchers have been particularly intrigued by its ability to bind to CBD2 receptors. This causes it to come with a variety of medical benefits.
The molecule profile of caryophyllene is also unique in that it is a much bigger molecule than other terpenes such as limonene and myrcene. It also has what’s called a cyclobutene ring, which is extremely rare in nature, and you won’t find it in any other cannabis terpene that has been discovered yet.
So, what does this have to do with our body’s endocannabinoid system? Well, we have a massive network of receptors throughout our bodies. Two of the most important are the CB1 and CB2 receptors. The CB1 receptor, for example, is found in the central nervous system and brain. On the contrary, CB2 receptors can be found in our secondary organs.
How does this work in our body?
When our body comes in contact with a cannabinoid like THC, it will bind to the CB1 receptors in the brain and the nervous system to create a blissful high. Now, when it comes to the caryophyllene terpene, things are different.
The structure of this terpene makes it easier for it to bind to CB2 receptors located mainly in the peripheral endocannabinoid system. So instead of getting that euphoric high you expect, the experience is much tamer, but you also get the countless benefits you would associate with activating the body’s important receptors.
When you’re ingesting a spicy weed strain, chances are you are activating a cannabinoid receptor, like the CB2 receptors.
Where Do You Find the Beta-Caryophyllene Terpene in Nature?
The beta-caryophyllene is found in nature in abundance. For example, you’ll find it in a variety of herbs and vegetables, especially those such as cloves and black pepper. Rosemary, clove oil, lavender, and a variety of essential oils including ylang-ylang, copaiba, and even black caraway oil all contain this terpene as well.
What Are Some Other Types of Caryophyllene?
We’ve already covered how unique this terpene is, including how it has three isoprene units and the cyclobutane ring, but let’s look at how this terpene can show up in multiple versions.
Beta-Caryophyllene
This is the terpene we’ve discussed so far in this post. It is found in cannabis strains and food, and it is also referred to as b caryophyllene. It binds directly to your CB2 receptor.
Caryophyllene Oxide
Caryophyllene oxide is a terpene that develops as a result of the oxidation of beta-caryophyllene. Scientist often refers to it as beta-caryophyllene oxide, and it is an aromatic component that drug dogs look for to find cannabis. You’ll find it easily in plants like eucalyptus, lemon, and oregano—to name a few.
Trans Caryophyllene
You’ll find this with beta-caryophyllene. It has a pretty rich medicinal profile that you won’t find in other terpenes, but it doesn’t activate the endocannabinoid system, unfortunately.
What Do Terpenes Do?
Terpenes are also known as chemical compounds, and they are very common in plants. They are aromatic, and for some plants, they help attract pollinators while in others they are used specifically for warding off pests and predators. Scientists have identified some 150 terpenes in cannabis plants, however.
What’s more, each cannabis strain has its own terpene profile, based on how it was cultivated. One grower may use one process to develop strains, while another will use their own. Keep in mind, that terpenes' main role is to work in harmony with cannabinoids such as CBD and THC in the body to produce the overall effect you experience when you consume the plant.
The Potential Benefits of High Caryophyllene Strains of Cannabis
Like other terpenes, beta-caryophyllene offers a variety of potential health effects. Multiple studies have revealed these benefits, so let’s take a look at them one by one.
Anti-Inflammatory
A fairly common benefit of cannabis terpenes is their anti-inflammatory properties. This benefit could very well reduce your pain levels. In fact, a 2014 study showed that this terpene can reduce neuropathic nerve pain and inflammation in mice. Researchers showed that the effect was so powerful it could be useful for treating long-term chronic pain because our bodies don’t seem to be able to develop tolerance to its effects.
Treatment for Alcoholism
In another rodent study, caryophyllene also has the potential to reduce our alcohol intake. In the study, mice were given the terpene and then showed reduced interest in alcohol. Subsequent studies also revealed that this terpene is powerful enough to reduce voluntary alcohol consumption. This is an exciting development that makes this terpene a very good treatment option for addiction.
Anti-Bacterial & Anti-Microbial Properties
Other studies have proven that beta-caryophyllene can fight off bacterial dental plaque build-up, which makes it a great alternative to pharmaceutical options like chlorhexidine. It also has a powerful ability to fight back against E. coli, Streptococcus pneumonia, and Haemophilus influenza.
Treatment for Anxiety & Depression
If you’re looking for a viable treatment for anxiety and depression via high caryophyllene strains, you’re on the right track. Research has shown it is a viable option to treat high levels of depression and anxiety in participants. Once again, this is thanks to the CB2 receptors that often are the cause of mood disorders, which can improve when BCP is present.
Increased Lifespan
That’s right, this terpene also has the potential to increase your lifespan. It does this by reducing gene stress, which is the primary driver of shortening your lifespan. By consuming this terpene regularly, you can potentially increase your longevity.
Treatment for Inflammatory-Bowl Disease
Research has revealed that caryophyllene is a viable treatment for inflammatory-bowl disease. Oral treatment of BCP has shown to be effective in reducing symptoms associated with the disease.
Aids Weight Loss
When combined with humulene—another terpene—beta-caryophyllene binds to CB2 receptors to suppress your appetite. Doses of 10 to 200mg produce the effect, which can help with weight loss.
Has a Cancer-Fighting Effect
BCP increases the anticancer activity of humulene, which can inhibit tumor growth by some 69 percent and up to 90 percent.
Supports Brain Health
One of the amazing effects of this terpene is that it reduces neuroinflammation and increases antioxidant levels in the brain. This helps reduce swelling, seizures, and even brain damage in stroke victims. It can also help prevent Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
In total, scientists have discovered at least 21 human health benefits of the caryophyllene terpene. This is a medical cannabis powerhouse that shouldn’t be overlooked.
How Does the Beta-Caryophyllene Terpene Make You Feel?
It’s important to note that caryophyllene is not a psychoactive substance. This means it by itself does not make you high. It also doesn’t interact with your endocannabinoid receptors like other elements of cannabis. While in the past we thought we had to extract THC to get the best medicinal effects, we have since discovered that the combination of compounds creates the entourage effect. If you want to experience the healing effects of cannabis, you’ll need this effect in its completion. It also reduces the effects of THC which can include anxiety and paranoia.
Interestingly, most people feel calmer and more positive when they’ve consumed caryophyllene, but do not experience a high. Isolated terpenes do not get you high. However, they are a critical component of the entourage effect.
Terpenes and cannabinoids work in synergy and the entourage effect explains sufficiently to produce unique experiences in our body’s systems. Caryophyllene interacts with CBG, CBD, and THC to develop a unique experience that is well known within commercially grown cannabis strains. This particular terpene is quintessential for producing the entourage effect because of the way it affects our systems.
Adding caryophyllene into your CBD increases its efficacy and helps your body absorb it, for example. Another cool thing that it does is increases the anti-inflammatory properties of THC as it activates your CB2 receptor for a more balanced high.
So, while it won’t give you a high, it does play an important role in creating the overall euphoric feeling that comes from consuming THC.
How Caryophyllene is Used
Beta-caryophyllene is a truly abundant terpene. It is completely safe to use and consume and is so naturally occurring that it is considered safe to use in foods by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Like other cannabis terpenes including geraniol, limonene, and alpha-pinene, it is regarded as safe and is labeled with that in mind. It is also considered safe by the European Food and Safety Authority (EFSA) when used as a food additive, flavor additive, and cosmetic additive. You will find this powerful terpene in a variety of products including:
Hair conditioners
Face creams
Shampoos
Cooking sauces
Pre-mixed cooking spices
The Scent of the Beta-Caryophyllene Terpene
Caryophyllene is found in extremely high levels in cannabis, making up 25% of the entire terpene production of the cannabis strain. It is one of the most dominant cannabis terpenes and has a unique aroma profile.
With a single sniff, you can expect to take in a spicy, earthy, rich, and peppery scent profile. If you are adamant about vaping your cannabis, there is a good chance you will experience these aromas more clearly than if you were to smoke a joint or use another smoking device. This is particularly true because terpene aromas have a finer taste and scent than the powerful floral elements you are used to smelling when you smoke cannabis.
While you shouldn’t expect to pick out this particular terpene every time you consume cannabis, you can be confident that if it is in your weed strain, you will reap the benefits. When you find a spicy weed strain you can consider it high in caryophyllene and enjoy the rich peppery aromas.
Cannabis Strains High in the Beta-Caryophyllene Terpene
Now that you know everything there is to know about this cannabis terpene, it’s time to explore where you can find it and what strains are the richest in it. Cannabis strains with high levels of caryophyllene are most often spicy and musky, and many even have a somewhat odd profile. Still, others have high notes of diesel and fuel and can even cause odd sensations in your nose, similar to smelling pepper.
Many strains with a greater amount of caryophyllene include the following:
Sour Diesel—This is a hybrid strain made from crossing Super Skunk and Chemdawg and it is excellent for easing mental disorders and distress.
Bubby Kush—An Indica strain that has some of the most calming effects of any cannabis strain.
Candyland—This is a Sativa strain bred from Granddaddy Purple and Bay Platinum Cookies. Its flavor profile is mostly sweet with flowery and earthy undertones.
Original Glue—Previously known as Gorilla Glue, this strain is a hybrid between Sour Dubb, Chocolate Diesel, and Chem’s Sis.
Death Star—This is a popular Indica strain that’s a cross between Sensi Star and Sour Diesel, it’s skunky and delicious.
Chemdog—This is a parent strain of OG Kush and Sour Diesel, and it has a diesel-like aroma and relaxing effects you cannot beat.
GSC—Girl Scout Cookies is an Indica-dominant strain and is made from OG Kush and Durban Poison.
Master Kush—Another popular Indica strain, this is a strain crossed between the Hindu Kush and Dutch White Label.
Cookies and Cream—This one is a hybrid that offers a lovely high that ensures the user gets the relaxing effect they’re after.
Gelato—A slightly Indica-dominant strain, it produces a euphoric high that doesn’t lead to a sedative effect.
The Cookies family of cannabis strains, in particular, is high in caryophyllene. This includes GSC, Platinum GSC, Candyland, and Cookies & Cream strains.
Most people love these strains thanks to their unending stress-relieving terpenes that are present in countless other hybrids and are well known to reduce anxiety as soon as you take a single puff. Because of the powerful aromatic nature of this terpene, most experienced cannabis consumers will be able to detect its presence when consuming it via vape or by smelling it before being burned.
The therapeutic benefits of this terpene can be felt well beyond simply smoking the plant, as well.
Additional Ways to Use Caryophyllene Terpenes
One of the most popular ways that people use this terpene is through salves. It is one of the easier ways to highlight the aroma profile of this unique plant. Many companies use it to sell their product with anti-inflammatory properties, not just because of its scent.
Similar to another common terpene, like humulene, beta-caryophyllene is an excellent supplement to Sour Diesel, which is a very popular Sativa-dominant strain that is used to ease pain, depression, and stress. When applied directly to the skin, these terpenes work together to produce an anti-inflammatory response.
More Cannabis Strains High in Caryophyllene—Ones to Explore
Looking for new options to try out beta-caryophyllene terpenes? We’ve got you covered. Explore the following strains and products right from our store to give this terpene another try with a fresh perspective: Ice Cream Paint Job | Divine Storm | Kush Cake
This article is for informational and educational purposes only, and should not be substituted for professional medical advice.