Aug 15, 2023
In an earlier post I went over the basics of terpenes. It was to give a general understanding of these exciting, medically relevant oils. In this post, I'll be specifically going over the properties of β-Caryophyllene (also known as: Beta caryophyllene or Caryophyllene.) Many of my favorite strains have this terpene, and there's a good reason for it.
When it's β-Caryophyllene!
While all terpenes are secreted from the same glands as cannabinoids (THC, CBD, etc.), β-Caryophyllene has a unique property among terpenes- it's also a cannabinoid! What's a cannabinoid? Anything that binds to cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system.
β-Caryophyllene is both a cannabinoid and a terpene because it binds to CB2 receptors.
The endocannabinoid system is made up of a CB1 receptors (mostly in the brain) and CB2 receptors (mostly in the peripheral immune system, some in the central nervous system). As β-Caryophyllene binds to CB2 receptors, it's a cannabinoid, but as it also gives off a smell and taste indicative of its properties, it's also a terpene.
The better questions is: what doesn't β-Caryophyllene do? Let's start with the antis. It's anti: tumor, pain, inflammation, microbial, depression, oxidant, diabetic (as in, it helps keep insulin in the plasma while decreasing free-floating glucose).
A little bit of everything wrapped into a single terpene.
It's one of the most abundantly used terpenes selected for in commercial cannabis use because of its myriad of properties and unique scent profile. Speaking of which...
Ever smell a strain and find it spicy, a little peppery, but is a little woody in taste? That's β-Caryophyllene at work! This scent is so distinct and powerful to some noses, that it's what drug-sniffing dogs are trained to detect. You'll find this terpene hiding in everything from black pepper, to cloves, to basil, and cinnamon.
With a strong spicy scent, this one has become synonymous with several strains.
If you've ever loved a high-THC strain that had a little extra "umph" you couldn't quite put your finger on, I'd put money that it's β-Caryophyllene.
For all the "anti-"s listed above, there's at least 1 category of people benefitting from it; that means that there's a plethora of conditions that are helped by this terpene.
First and foremost, β-Caryophyllene is a potent pain reliever and incredibly anti-inflammation. Put that in conversation with its antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antioxidant capabilities, it's a useful tool to have in your herbal toolbelt- not just regarding cannabis.
It can help reduce mental stress like depression and anxiety, lower cholesterol, treat seizures, colitis, liver fibrosis, diabetes, and even stave off osteoporosis.
As I use medical cannabis for a variety of reasons, I can tell you personally that I notice a difference in my physical manifestations of stress when using strains with this terpene. For example, my shoulders relax more, my breathing slows. I know that if I'm in good hands with β-Caryophyllene.
A jack-of-all-trades, β-Caryophyllene's entourage effect- the overall feeling you get between this terpene, THC, etc.- is one of contentment. A little bit euphoric, a little bit chilled out, you can expect some relief of stress while experiencing an uplifted mood.
Want a little relaxed, but not so relaxed that you sleep? Happy but not SO happy? This is your terpene.
I like to consider this terpene to be the "hybrid" terpene. It elevates your mood like a sativa while de-stressing you like an indica. Maybe it's because it's such a balanced terpene / cannabinoid that there are no particular warnings for its use.
Again, because of its well-roundedness and association with high-THC strain, this is one terpene you're not going to have to do too much searching to find.
Most "Kush" strains, Girl Scout Cookies (GSC), Sour Diesel, and Do-Si-Dos are known to have β-Caryophyllene.
All of these are great strains that are known for their calming, yet uplifting effects. Best part? They're often just the right amount to keep the pain away while enjoying life. If you're experiencing pain, inflammation, or depression, I highly recommend looking into this terpene for your use.
