Beta-Caryophyllene Terpene: Strains, Effects, and Benefits. Flower Rich in Caryophyllene
In today’s Terpene Series we will take a look at a rather unique terpene - Caryophyllene.
With more insights into the inner workings of cannabis and its compounds, the community is turning towards paying more attention to terpenes, the molecule combinations responsible for the variety of aromas and effects provided by the plant.
In this part of our Series, we will talk about an exciting one - the Caryophyllene terpene.
What is Caryophyllene Terpene? What Flavor Is It?
Caryophyllene (pronounced ˌkærioʊˈfɪliːn / ka-riou-fai-len), formally known as Beta-Caryophyllene or β-caryophyllene is a terpene found in numerous essential oils. Its chemical formula is C15H24.
Cannabis strains with high Caryophyllene content often have that musky and spice aroma with powerful pepper notes.
Effects and Benefits of the Cannabis Terpene Beta-Caryophyllene
Our body is influenced by cannabinoids through the endocannabinoid system, with two major receptors being CB1 and CB2. They allow us to feel the effects and experience benefits of cannabinoids like THC, CBD, CBN, and so on. CB1 receptors are found in the brain and throughout the body while CB2 receptors are mostly found in the immune and gastrointestinal system.
Caryophyllene is unique in the way that it acts the way cannabinoids do - activating CB2 receptors and thus providing its benefits to the system. Since it does not interact with CB1 receptors, it has no psychoactive effects.
The latter basically means that you get all the potential health benefits with no side effects, making this terpene a popular subject of studies.
Beta-Caryophyllene - Terpene Against Anxiety
Caryophyllene has been found and reported to help with pain management, spasms, anxiety, depression and even Alzheimer’s and alcoholism. In case of the latter, it reduces alcohol intake.
It has also shown potential in combating sleep disorders and boasts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
What Does Caryophyllene Terpene Do?
Caryophyllene is responsible for a number of flavors in cannabis and other plants - earthy, spicy, and herbal notes are the result of its presence. It is also one of the terpenes responsible for the pungent and diesel smells we associate with cannabis.
Caryophyllene is used as a natural food additive, flavoring, and enhancer and is FDA approved.
It also has preservative properties which are used in beer, and is a common component in various topical products due to its flavor and potential benefits.
Where is Caryophyllene Found?
Apart from cannabis, substantial amounts of Caryophyllene can be found in the following plants or more precisely their essential oils: black pepper, hops, oregano (no wonder scammers often use it as a substitute for marijuana), cloves, basil, rosemary, cinnamon and more.
What Strains are High in Caryophyllene?
Inferno OG. A very potent hybrid with effects leaning towards indica.
Chem Dawg. This strain boasts an extremely pungent and sour diesel aroma provided by Caryophyllene.
Blue Dream. A timeless classic, this hybrid is rich in Limonene, Pinene, and Caryophyllene.
GSC or Girl Scout Cookies. An extremely flavorful hybrid.
Sour Diesel. The pungent blend of aromas will leave no doubt as to what terpene is predominant in this sativa dominant hybrid.
Green Crack. A great sativa to combat fatigue, stress, and depression.
OG Kush. Another classic hybrid, offering the best of both worlds.
Our Flower section shows predominant terpenes for all our strains and has corresponding filters.
In Conclusion
Caryophyllene is a unique terpene that has been studied extensively, though we still expect to find more of its potential uses and benefits.
Stay tuned to hear more about the amazing world of terpenes, and don’t forget to use our newest feature of sorting strains by their predominant terpenes in our Flower section.
To read more from our Terpene series, click #Terpenes.
Health Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using cannabis, particularly if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking medication.