If you are a connoisseur of cannabis, chances are you’ve heard a lot about the different terpenes contained in various cannabis strains. Terpenes, which are natural compounds found in plants, give each plant its distinctive smell and taste. In the plant of cannabis in particular, it is the caryophyllene terpene which seems to be the most remarkable.
Its unique aromatic properties and flavor profile are spicier than most, but there’s a lot more to this terpene than a little pepper. Whether you’re wondering if this terpene will get you high or if you just want to explore how this particular terpene works in your body, this post will give you more information.
Terpenes: Everything you need to know about the caryophyllene terpene
Terpenes are the most diverse group of organic compounds in nature, and they have a reputation for carrying flavor and taste. They develop naturally in many plants and animals. In general, terpenes have two functions. First, they can ward off predators or parasites with their strong aromas. Then, they can help facilitate certain symbiotic relationships. For example, flowering plants can use terpenes to attract bees for pollination.
One plant family in particular has a special relationship with terpenes: cannabis. THE caryophyllene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in this plant. He is responsible of the fantastic flavors and seductive aromas many varieties of hemp. Certain flowers linked to caryophyllene might have a more musky aroma or the sickly, sweet smell of diesel.
The main characteristics of caryophyllene: smell and taste
Notable as a dietary cannabinoid, caryophyllene terpene is a common natural food additive. Caryophyllene, better known as beta or b-caryophyllene or BCP, is an extremely common terpene in cannabis, known for its spicy and grassy side with woody notes. Some cannabis strains with a spicy and warm undertone have high concentrations of caryophyllene. Most people associate its scent with a somewhat pungent cracked pepper scent. It is found in countless spices, herbs and even aromatic oils. Some of the most common are:
- black pepper,
- The Basilic,
- Oregano,
- Cloves,
- Hops and
- Cinnamon.
Caryophyllene has also been used as flavoring agent in chewing gum to enhance a lemony or spicy flavor profile. This terpene is also used in some laundry detergents. Other products include
- Facial creams;
- Shampoos;
- Hair conditioners;
- Cooking spices.
Pale yellow in color, the caryophyllene has a sweet taste found in foods such as allspice and fig.
What is special about caryophyllene?
Caryophyllene is a powerful component of anti-inflammatory ointments and topical products. It also has anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties. The molecular profile of caryophyllene is also unique in that it is a much larger molecule than other terpenes such as limonene and myrcene.
It also contains what is called a cyclobutane ring. This compound is extremely rare in nature, and you won’t find it in any other cannabis terpene. One of the most interesting things about caryophyllene is that it has a unique relationship with our endocannabinoid system. This provides it with a variety of medical benefits.
How does it work in our body?
We have a massive network of receivers in
our whole body. Two of the most important are CB1 and CB2 receptors. The CB1 receptor is found in the central nervous system and the brain while CB2 receptors can be found in our secondary organs. When our body comes into contact with a cannabinoid like THC, the latter binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system to create a blissful high.
Now when it comes to caryophyllene terpene, things are different. The structure of this terpene makes it easier to bind to CB2 receptors located primarily in the peripheral endocannabinoid system. So instead of getting that euphoric level you were expecting, the experience is much tamer. However, you also get the countless benefits that come with activating important receptors in the body.
How does beta-caryophyllene terpene make you feel?
It is important to note that caryophyllene is not a psychoactive substance. This means that it doesn’t get you high per se. It also does not interact with your endocannabinoid receptors like other elements in cannabis. It also reduces the effects of THC, which can include anxiety and paranoia.
Interestingly, most people feel calmer and more positive when they have consumed caryophyllene, but do not experience a spike. Its action is similar to that of cbd infusions. Isolated terpenes don’t get you high. However, caryophyllene interacts with CBN, CBD and THC to develop a unique experience well known within cannabis strains grown commercially. This particular terpene is essential to producing the entourage effect because of the way it affects your systems. So while it doesn’t give you a high, the caryophyllene plays an important role in creating the overall euphoric feeling that comes from consuming THC.
What are the effects of caryophyllene?
Like a cbd infusion, caryophyllene is well known for its relaxing effects that can soothe nervous feelings. Caryophyllene also has potentially beneficial health properties, although experts are still confirming these benefits. Even if the effects of this terpene are verified, you should in no case substitute it for medical treatment. Caryophyllene helps fight effectively against many ailments.
Anxiety
Science has identified the CB1 receptor as playing a key role in anxiety. If the CB1 receptors in the brain’s amygdala are blocked, or if the gene that codes for the CB1 receptor is deleted, anxiety increases. Dopamine neurons contain CB2 receptors, and therefore, blocking or removing these receptors can modulate anxiety-like behaviors. Indeed, under inflammatory conditions, the expression of CB2 receptors in the brain is increased. This means that selective CB2 agonists like beta-caryophyllene are beneficial for treating anxiety.
Depression
Overexpression of cannabinoid CB2 receptors is also implicated in other neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression and schizophrenia. Eating disorders and alcohol-seeking behavior are also modified by overexpression of CB2 receptors on dopamine neurons. Since beta-caryophyllene is a CB2 agonist, it may help alleviate depressed moods and other neuropsychiatric disorders.
Inflammation
A fairly common benefit of cannabis terpenes is their anti-inflammatory properties. This benefit could very well reduce your pain level. In fact, a 2014 study showed that this terpene can reduce with the same precision as a cbd infusion, neuropathic nerve pain. Researchers showed that the effect was so powerful that it could be useful for treating long-term chronic pain because our bodies don’t seem to be able to develop resistance to its effects.
Chronic and neuropathic pain
The anxiolytic, antidepressant and anti-inflammatory properties of beta-caryophyllene make it potentially very useful for treating chronic and neuropathic pain. It has been demonstrated that the beta-caryophyllene has analgesic and anticancer effects. Potent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories like celecoxib containing this terpene are often prescribed to treat short-term arthritis pain and nerve pain. However, at higher doses, the celecoxib has several unpleasant side effects, including abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea.
Neurodegenerative disorders (Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease)
CB2 receptors are a potential therapeutic target for many different neurodegenerative disorders. Downregulation of CB2 receptors has been reported in the brains of Parkinson’s disease patients, leading to inflammation and brain degeneration. Beta-caryophyllene just like a relax cbd herbal tea, acts on CB2 receptors to soothe overinflammation in the brain. Activation and upregulation of CB2 receptors is thought to protect against neurodegenerative changes in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Brain Disorders and Weight Loss
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. Finally, when combined with humulene, another terpene, beta-caryophyllene binds to CB2 receptors to suppress your appetite. Doses of 10 to 200 mg produce an effect that can help with weight loss.
Cancer and Diabetes
Citing the need for further research, scientists nonetheless hailed caryophyllene as reducing the growth and proliferation of cancer cells. It also enhances the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments, according to a 2016 study published in the journal Cancer Medicine. As for other potential benefits of beta-caryophyllene, there is evidence that the terpene helps balance glucose levels in diabetics.
Some tips for using the caryophyllene terpene properly
Beta-caryophyllene can be great for treating anxiety, but when combined with high amounts of pinene, limonene, THC, and THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin), it can cause more anxiety. It is best to start with lower doses such as with infusions cbd and see how the entourage effect affects your usage. This combination of cannabinoids and terpenes may be useful for:
- Diabetes ;
- Neuropathic pain;
- The Depression ;
- ADD/ADHD (Attention Deficit Disorder with or without Hyperactivity).
For anxiety, insomnia, and chronic muscle and joint pain, beta-caryophyllene combined with the following may be a more appropriate cannabinoid and terpene choice:
- Myrcene;
- Linalool;
- Terpineol;
- CBD;
- THC.
Again, it is recommended to start with lower THC potencies, ignoring beta-caryophyllene, and increase potency as needed to help with a specific condition.
What cannabis strains are high in beta-caryophyllene?
Now that you know everything there is to know about this cannabis terpene, it’s time to explore where you can find it and which varieties are richest in it. THE cannabis strains high in caryophyllene are most often spicy and musky, and many even have a slightly odd profile. Still others have high notes of diesel and gasoline and can even cause strange sensations in your nose, like you smell pepper. Among the strains with a greater amount of caryophyllene, we find the following:
- Skywalker OG
This hybrid strain is native to California and has a strong earthy or diesel aroma. It provides a euphoric and sometimes sleepy high, perfect for ending your day.
- Bubba Kush
This incredibly popular, indica-dominant strain has a spicy, often woodsy scent and delivers an intense, uplifting high that will leave you feeling relaxed. It is an Indica strain that has some of the most calming effects of any cannabis strain.
- Sour Diesel
It is a hybrid variety resulting from the crossing of Super Skunk and Chemdawg. It is excellent for relieving mental disorders and distress.
- Candyland
It is a Sativa variety obtained from Granddaddy Purple and Bay Platinum Cookies. This sativa strain offers an energizing, mood-lifting experience and works well to control pain or muscle tension. Its flavor profile is primarily sweet with floral and earthy undertones.
- Low Price 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 is a cross between Sensi Star and Sour Diesel, it is skunky and delicious.
- Chemdawg
This is a parent strain of OG Kush and Sour Diesel, and it has a diesel aroma and relaxing effects that you can’t beat. This hall-of-fame strain has a strong diesel aroma to match the strength of the high. A smoking session with Chemdawg delivers a cerebral experience and a heavy body high, perfect for forgetting your worries.
- GSC-Girl Scout Cookies
This is an Indica dominant strain and is made from OG Kush and Durban Poison.
- Master Kush
Another popular Indica strain, this is a cross between Hindu Kush and Dutch White Label.
- Cookies and Cream
This is a hybrid that offers a pleasant high that ensures the user gets the relaxing effect they are looking for.
- Gelato
Also known as “Larry Bird”, Gelato gets its sweet taste from a blend of Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint GCS. This THC powerhouse provides a strong, euphoric high and relieves pain.
Beta-caryophyllene might just be the best terpene nature has to offer. It has incredible efficiency like the cbd infusions. It is certainly one of the most abundant, and it even has the ability to bind to CB2 receptors. Whether spicy or musky, the caryophyllene is always strong and bold. With even more research, we can further explore the potential health benefits of this terpene.
