Beta-Caryophyllene - Benefits & Effects

Beta caryophyllene is a bicyclic sesquiterpene, a type of terpene that contributes to the aroma and flavor of many plants.

It is particularly known for its spicy, peppery aroma.

It is found in common household spices and seasonings like cloves, black pepper, and oregano. Beyond adding flavor to food, it contributes to the therapeutic properties of many essential oils.

BCP contains a cyclobutene ring (a ring of four carbon atoms), which makes it rarer than other cannabis terpenes.

It has a unique molecular structure with three isoprene units, making it bigger than other terpenes like myrcene and limonene.

Caryophyllene oxide is a sesquiterpene or a terpene that results from the oxidation of beta-caryophyllene.

Also known as beta-caryophyllene oxide, this terpene is one of the aromatic component drug dogs smell to identify cannabis. It’s naturally present in plants like lemon, oregano, and eucalyptus and is a common food flavoring.

Medicinal Efficacy

β caryophyllene exhibits a wider range of medicinal benefits than most of its peer molecules, including gastroprotective properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and chronic pain.

Recent studies have also indicated that topical application of BCP can alleviate symptoms of atopic dermatitis (AD).¹ In experiments involving mice, BCP significantly reduced skin inflammation and the infiltration of pro-inflammatory cells associated with AD-like conditions.

The scent of BCP can help in reducing stress and anxiety and promotes relaxation and mood enhancement.² Also, if you are addicted to alcohol, it might be a good option for you as it can help you to recover from hangovers.

Research suggests that cannabis edibles offer similar recreational effects to alcohol - like relaxation and euphoria - but may have a better safety profile.³ 

However, it's important to remember that both substances should be used responsibly and affect everyone differently.

BCP binds with the CB2 receptors of the ECS, which increases production and availability of the internally produced endocannabinoid anandamide.⁴

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Beta caryophyllene can reduce inflammation in the brain and chemicals cells that cause oxidative stress.

It interacts with the CB2 receptors in the body's endocannabinoid system to reduce inflammation, making it effective in treating symptoms such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.⁵

Neurodegenerative disorders

Recent research shows that by its interaction with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), BCP might be helpful in protecting against Neurodegenerative disorders.⁶

Anxiety & Stress

Beta-caryophyllene is a special terpene that works with CB2 receptors in your body. These receptors help regulate your immune system and also influence your stress response. Early studies suggest that beta-caryophyllene may help ease anxiety and boost mood, likely by reducing inflammation and calming the nervous system. 

While more research is needed, it shows promise as a natural option for mental well-being.

Pain Relief

BCP has shown a significant result on animal models (mice) of inflammatory and neuropathic pain by interacting with your endocannabinoid system.⁷ Unlike other traditional medicines long term pain treatment is possible in BCP without the need for higher dosage.

Sources and Occurrence

BCP is produced by various plants, including cannabis, basil, black caraway, cinnamon, clove, copaiba, hops, lavender, oregano, rosemary, and ylang-ylang.

It is a major component of the essential oils of many plants, including the cannabis plant.

BCP is also found in various essential oils, including black pepper, oregano, and eucalyptus.

BCP is generally found in plants that are grown in warm and sunny climates which require less water.

Entourage Effect and Synergy

BCP interacts with cannabinoids and terpenes to enhance the overall effect, known as the entourage effect.

The interaction between THC + beta caryophyllene can help to prevent gastric issues and counteract its psychoactivity.

The interaction of CBD+ Beta-Caryophyllene can be a potential adjunctive treatment for substance abuse/addiction.

The combination of BCP and Humulene may have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially offering treatment options for conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, and fibromyalgia.

Cannabis Strains and Beta Caryophyllene

BCP is found in many cannabis strains, making up to a third of their essential oil, and is often associated with a musky and spicy aroma. It is also present in many hybrids that can provide relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Some cannabis strains with high levels of BCP include those with intense aromas reminiscent of diesel, jet fuel, or muskiness.

Beta caryophyllene Vs. Myrcene

Myrcene has an earthy musk aroma with a hint of clove. It is known for its sedative effects, often used in strains for relaxation and sleep. whereas BCP is known for the interaction with your endocannabinoid system.

Beta caryophyllene Vs. Pinene

It has a pine-like aroma and is found in rosemary and pine trees. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is known for its alertness. Both terpenes can overall enhance the therapeutic effect of cannabis strain through the entourage effect.

Beta caryophyllene Vs. Camphene

It has a strong camphor like aroma, used for fragrance, flavoring food and topical skin products. It is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. whereas BCP has a spicy and peppery aroma, known for its ability to relax muscle pain. 

High Beta Caryophyllene Cannabis Strains

Here are some strains which have higher levels of Beta Caryophyllene terpene:

• Cookies and Cream: This popular strain often boasts a sweet and creamy flavor profile with a hint of spice thanks to caryophyllene. Expect a relaxed and euphoric high.
• Platinum GSC: Another "cookie" strain, Platinum GSC is known for its earthy and sweet aroma with a peppery undertone. It's often described as having a calming and uplifting effect.
• Candyland: This sativa-dominant hybrid delivers a happy and energetic high. Its aroma is a mix of sweet and spicy, with caryophyllene contributing to its complex profile.
• Sour Diesel: This classic sativa is known for its pungent, diesel-like aroma with a hint of pepper. It's often chosen for its energizing and uplifting effects.

OG Kush: A legendary strain, OG Kush is known for its earthy and piney aroma with a spicy kick. Expect a potent high that is both relaxing and euphoric.

References

1. Ahn, S. S., Yeo, H., Jung, E., Ou, S., Lee, Y. H., Lim, Y., & Shin, S. Y. (2022). β-Caryophyllene Ameliorates 2,4-Dinitrochlorobenzene-Induced Atopic Dermatitis through the Downregulation of Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase/EGR1/TSLP Signaling Axis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(23), 14861. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms232314861 ↩
2. Machado, K. da C., Jardim Paz, M. F. C., Santos, J. V. de O., Silva, F. C. C., Tchekalarova, J. D., Salehi, B., Islam, M. T., Setzer, W. N., Sharifi-Rad, J., Castro e Sousa, J. M. de C., & Cavalcante, A. A. de C. M. (2020). Natural Product Communications, 15(10), 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1177/1934578X20962229 ↩
3. Fazio, A. (2024). Applied Sciences. https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010203 ↩
4. Gertsch, J., Leonti, M., Raduner, M., Racz, I., & Mechoulam, R. (2008). Beta-caryophyllene is a selective agonist of peripheral CB2-receptors. British Journal of Pharmacology, 153(2), 263-271. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bjp.0707466 ↩
5. Kumar, N. J., Sharma, C., Hashiesh, H. M., Arunachalam, S., Meeran, M. N., Javed, H., Patil, C. R., & Ojha, S. (2021). Beta-Caryophyllene, A Natural Dietary CB2 Receptor Selective Cannabinoid can be a Candidate to Target the Trinity of Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation in COVID-19. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 12, 590201. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.590201 ↩
6. Scandiffio, R., Geddo, F., Cottone, E., Querio, G., Antoniotti, S., Gallo, M. P., Maffei, M. E., & Bovolin, P. (2020). Protective Effects of (E)-β-Caryophyllene (BCP) in Chronic Inflammation. Nutrients, 12(11), 3273. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12113273 ↩
7. Alberti, T. B., Barbosa, W. L. R., Vieira, J. L. F., Raposo, N. R. B., & Dutra, R. C. (2017). (−)-β-Caryophyllene, a CB2 Receptor-Selective Phytocannabinoid, Suppresses Motor Paralysis and Neuroinflammation in a Murine Model of Multiple Sclerosis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 18(4), 691. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18040691 ↩