Sesquiterpene
Terpenes are the primary components of essential oils meaning that they are responsible for the aromas in many plants. One of these plants includes the cannabis plant. There are different types of terpenes, but one that stands out is beta-caryophyllene. This terpene falls under the classification of sesquiterpene, which is responsible for bioactivities such as anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsant activity.
Aroma and Flavor
This terpene has a spicy, clove-like smell. It is not limited to cannabis, and is found in other plants, herbs and spices like cloves, cinnamon, peppercorns and oregano. Strains that are high in caryophyllene include Girl Scout Cookies, Super Silver Haze, Bubba Kush and White Widow. Have you ever heard that black peppercorns help reduce cannabis induced anxiety? There might be truth to that according to science!
CB2
Caryophyllene, or beta-Caryophyllene, also acts like a cannabinoid. It is the one terpene that we know of that is able to bind with the CB2 receptors in our Endocannabinoid System. CB2 receptors are located throughout the body including in the Central Nervous System (CNS). This is why it is believed that taking a whiff of black peppercorns or consuming them whole have a mitigating effect on anxiety and paranoia one can get from consuming more than they are used to.
According to a study done by the University of Turin, when Caryophyllene binds to the CB2 receptor, it has an interaction with the same family of receptors that regulates metabolism and energy homeostasis. These results suggest that Caryophyllene has effects on obesity, and nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases.
Therapeutic Effects
Anti-Inflammatory
Some therapeutic effects that caryophyllene provides are anti-inflammatory properties. If you suffer from conditions like arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), the therapeutic effects caryophyllene provides may alleviate or reduce inflammation. Looking for strains that tend to have high testing levels of caryophyllene are great choices for those looking for pain relief or relaxation.
Anti-Depressant
A study done by Kyung Hee University, saw that prolonged stress induces depression by modifying the neurotrophic conditions, which are responsible for helping regulate the nervous systems and decrease the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. According to the journal Behavioral Brain Research, since the Endocannabinoid System (ESC) also helps regulate cognitive and emotional responses, caryophyllene exhibits antidepressant properties.
Try It Out
Caryophyllene is definitely a unique terpene that is continuously being researched for its effects. Next time you are at a dispensary, look for strains that are high in beta-caryophyllene and observe the type of effect you feel on your body. Who knows, maybe you will find a new favorite strain that agrees with you and your Endocannabinoid System!
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7692661/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166432819313348
