Beta-Caryophyllene | Cannabis Terpene Guide
β-Caryophyllene - Effects, Benefits & Strains
Pronounced: CARE-ee-oh-FY-leen
Beta-Caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene terpene with a spicy, peppery, woody, clove-like aroma. It's also found naturally in Black pepper, Cloves, Cinnamon. Research suggests beta-caryophyllene research strongly supports anti-inflammatory activity through cb2 receptors, though more human studies are needed.
Boiling Point
266°F (130°C)
Aroma
Spicy
Also Found In
Aroma Profile:
Spicy, peppery, woody, clove-like
Research Sources
5 peer-reviewed studies
Verified Via
PubMed / DOI
Evidence
Research-Backed
Updated
February 2026
What is Beta-Caryophyllene?
Beta-caryophyllene is unique among terpenes because it directly binds to CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, making it the first known dietary cannabinoid and an FDA-approved food additive. This gives it potential anti-inflammatory properties without the psychoactive effects associated with CB1 activation. It's the primary terpene responsible for the spicy, peppery notes in cannabis.
How Beta-Caryophyllene Works
β-Caryophyllene is a selective full agonist at CB2 receptors—it does NOT bind to CB1 (no psychoactive effects). The landmark Gertsch et al. (2008) study established it as a "dietary cannabinoid." It shows anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic effects through this CB2 mechanism.
Researched Effects
Anti-inflammatory
Strong EvidenceMultiple studies confirm CB2-mediated anti-inflammatory effects with significant preclinical evidence.
✓ Compliant Language
Research strongly supports anti-inflammatory activity through CB2 receptors
✗ Avoid Saying
Treats arthritis or inflammatory diseases
Pain Modulation
Moderate EvidenceAnimal studies show reduced neuropathic and inflammatory pain responses through CB2 activation.
✓ Compliant Language
May support comfort through CB2 receptor interaction
✗ Avoid Saying
Relieves pain or treats pain conditions
Sources
Gastroprotective
Moderate EvidencePreclinical research demonstrates protective effects on gastric tissue.
✓ Compliant Language
Shows gastro-protective properties in research
✗ Avoid Saying
Treats ulcers or digestive disorders
Sources
Understanding Evidence Levels
Safety Information
β-Caryophyllene is GRAS by the FDA and is found in many common foods and spices. It's well-tolerated with no significant adverse effects reported at dietary levels.
Scientific References
5 peer-reviewed sources cited
- 1
Gertsch J, et al. β-Caryophyllene is a dietary cannabinoid Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. 2008
Landmark paper: BCP directly activates CB2 receptors.
- 2
Klauke AL, et al. The cannabinoid CB2 receptor-selective phytocannabinoid beta-caryophyllene exerts analgesic effects in mouse models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain European Journal of Pain. 2014
Showed dual mechanism for neuropathic pain relief.
- 3
Bahi A, et al. β-Caryophyllene, a CB2 receptor agonist produces multiple behavioral changes relevant to anxiety and depression in mice Physiology & Behavior. 2014
BCP reduced anxiety via CB2 receptor activation.
- 4
Horvath B, et al. β-Caryophyllene ameliorates cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in a cannabinoid 2 receptor-dependent manner Free Radical Biology and Medicine. 2012
BCP reduced inflammation markers and oxidative stress.
- 5
Tambe Y, et al. Gastric cytoprotection of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory sesquiterpene, beta-caryophyllene Planta Medica. 1996
BCP protected gastric mucosa in ulcer models.
Research Verification
All citations link directly to PubMed or the original source. You can verify any claim by clicking the reference link. Learn more about how we research.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes beta-caryophyllene unique?
Beta-caryophyllene is the only terpene known to directly bind to CB2 cannabinoid receptors, making it a "dietary cannabinoid." This gives it potential anti-inflammatory properties without psychoactive effects.
Does beta-caryophyllene get you high?
No. Beta-caryophyllene binds to CB2 receptors (found in immune cells), not CB1 receptors (found in the brain). CB2 activation does not produce psychoactive effects.
What does beta-caryophyllene smell like?
It has a spicy, peppery, woody aroma similar to black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. It's the terpene responsible for the "kick" you smell in peppery cannabis strains.
Quick Facts
- Full Name
- β-Caryophyllene
- Category
- sesquiterpene
- Boiling Point
- 266°F (130°C)
- Aroma
- Spicy, peppery, woody, clove-like
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Educational Information
This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before using cannabis products.
Strain Variability
Terpene profiles vary significantly between batches, growers, and growing conditions—even for the same strain name. Always check lab test results.
Indica/Sativa Note
The indica/sativa distinction is largely marketing. Effects are better predicted by cannabinoid and terpene profiles than strain classification.