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Beta-Caryophyllene
β-Caryophyllene
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
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
Gertsch J, et al. • Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2008)
PubMed ID: 18574142
Landmark study: First terpene identified as selective CB2 agonist, establishing it as a dietary cannabinoid.
Klauke AL, et al. • European Neuropsychopharmacology (2014)
PubMed ID: 24210682
Demonstrated analgesic effects through CB2 mechanism.
Bahi A, et al. • Physiology & Behavior (2014)
PubMed ID: 24930711
Showed anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects in mice via CB2.
Bento AF, et al. • Neuropharmacology (2011)
PubMed ID: 21903595
Demonstrated CB2-dependent anti-inflammatory effects in colitis model.
Tambe Y, et al. • Planta Medica (1996)
PubMed ID: 8937970
Demonstrated protective effects against gastric lesions.
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
Looking for strains high in Beta-Caryophyllene? Our doctors can help you find the right product.
Find a DoctorRelated Terpenes
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.