Caryophyllene: What Is This Terpene and Why Should You Care Right Now?

This article originally appeared on Cannabis.net and has been republished with permission.

Scientists have identified around 400 terpenes, although only a fraction of them are known. These aromatic compounds are not only found in cannabis, but also in other plants. They are best known for the unique aromas they impart to plants, including cannabis, but they also have a variety of health benefits and affect strain effects.

There are a few popular terpenes, including linalool, myrcene, and limonene. But today we’re going to talk about caryophyllene and why this is the terpene to watch out for.

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What is beta-caryophyllene?

Caryophyllene, also found in herbs like basil, oregano, and black pepper, has a spicy, peppery aroma. It’s the same aroma that’s responsible for giving said herbs that kick when you smell it, and in some cases it can be spicy and musky.

Caryophyllene has a unique molecular structure. This is especially because it has a rare cyclobutene ring not found in other cannabis terpenes. Internally, when you consume cannabis high in caryophyllene, it readily binds to the CB2 receptors, unlike THC, which binds to the CB1 receptors. Because of this, THC causes a psychoactive effect, but caryophyllene does not induce a high. However, it will still allow you to feel its therapeutic benefits, specifically reducing inflammation.

It’s just one of the many main compounds found in cannabis and other herbs that are widely used in the kitchen. Not only will it make you feel good, but it also has medicinal properties.

What makes caryophyllene so special?

As mentioned earlier, caryophyllene has the special ability to bind to CB2 receptors. This makes the therapeutic benefits even more apparent, which is a fantastic benefit for those seeking relief from inflammation and pain. Aside from that, caryophyllene also has powerful antibacterial, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

Strains high in caryophyllene are recommended for those suffering from seizures, osteoporosis, anxiety, high cholesterol, and pain. There is also some research showing that caryophyllene may protect against neurodegenerative diseases.

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Caryophyllene has also been shown to induce a feeling of relaxation, so it’s wonderful for helping you take the edge off a stressful day or calming you down when you’re feeling jittery or anxious.

Additionally, caryophyllene works in tandem with other cannabinoids to amplify their beneficial properties. This is known as the entourage effect.

What Are the Other Health Benefits of Caryophyllene?

Dozens of research shows that caryophyllene is a powerful terpene with powerful health benefits. Here are some of them:

cancer: A 2016 study found that caryophyllene possessed anti-cancer properties. They found that it might also be antiproliferative, meaning it inhibits the growth of cancer cells by inducing apoptosis, a process that causes cancer cells to destroy themselves.

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Researchers also found that it could be helpful in contributing to better cancer treatment outcomes. That’s because it can potentially increase the effects of doxorubicin and paclitaxel, two cancer-fighting drugs. In addition, caryophyllene can reduce the likelihood of leukopenia, which can be caused by chemotherapy.

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Antimicrobial: Although more studies are needed to prove caryophyllene’s antimicrobial benefits, the existing studies are hopeful. In a 2015 study, researchers analyzed its ability to fight microbes, promote antioxidant activity, and treat cancer. They found that caryophyllene was effective against a bacterium called S. aureus, which is a common cause of foodborne illness.

analgesic: While caryophyllene’s anti-inflammatory properties are well known, that’s not all it can do to help treat pain. One study found that when consumed, caryophyllene may help reduce the severity of pain.

cholesterol: Studies have shown that caryophyllene intake can help lower cholesterol levels. Caryophyllene does this by reducing the presence of LDL cholesterol, also known as bad cholesterol. It also increases good HDL cholesterol. This is great news for people suffering from a variety of chronic conditions, as well as those suffering from fatty liver and atherosclerosis.

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Other conditions the researchers saw promising included liver disease, heart disease, immune disorders, gastrointestinal disease, and kidney disease. Given these extensive benefits, it would be beneficial for everyone to consume more caryophyllene as part of a healthy lifestyle. You can get it not only from cannabis strains, but also from other food sources.

Which cannabis strains are rich in caryophyllene?

If you want to increase your chances of benefiting from caryophyllene, you can increase your intake of the herbs above.

In addition, you can also start consuming certain cannabis strains that are known to be high in caryophyllene. These include:

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Just remember that the amount of caryophyllene in strains and strains depends on how they were grown as well as their genetics. The most reliable way to be sure of your terpene content is to buy products that have been lab tested; Many pharmacies carry brands that can provide this information.

Now that you know these strains, the next time you have them, you might want to take a good taste sniff to observe the warm peppery, spicy, or musky notes of caryophyllene.

In summary, caryophyllene is a wonderful and powerful terpene. However, if you have a chronic condition and want to benefit from it, speak to your doctor first for personalized advice and guidance.

This article originally appeared on Cannabis.net and has been republished with permission.