Caryophyllene
Category: Scientific · Level: Expert
Caryophyllene is a cannabis terpene with a spicy, peppery aroma that uniquely acts as a CB2 receptor agonist, making it both a terpene and a functional cannabinoid.
Beta-caryophyllene is a bicyclic sesquiterpene found in cannabis, black pepper, cloves, and rosemary. It is distinctive among terpenes in that it is the only known terpene to directly activate cannabinoid receptors — specifically CB2 receptors, which are involved in immune and inflammatory responses. This dual identity as both a terpene and a CB2 receptor agonist has significant implications for the entourage effect hypothesis. Beta-caryophyllene is being studied for anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic, and gastroprotective properties. It produces spicy, woody, and peppery aromatic notes in cannabis cultivars where it predominates.
Also known as
Beta-caryophyllene, BCP
Usage
- Medical
- Scientific
Related terms
- Entourage Effect — The entourage effect is the proposed synergistic interaction between cannabinoids, terpenes, and other cannabis compounds that may enhance overall therapeutic effects.
- Terpene — Terpenes are aromatic organic compounds produced by cannabis and many other plants, responsible for distinct flavors and scents, and potentially contributing to therapeutic effects.
- Limonene — Limonene is a cannabis terpene with a citrus aroma, studied for potential anti-anxiety, antidepressant, and anti-cancer properties.
- Myrcene — Myrcene is the most abundant terpene in commercial cannabis cultivars, producing earthy and musky aromas, and studied for sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.