Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in cannabis. Its aromatic profile is spicy with a warm, peppery aroma. This terpene is found naturally in cloves, oregano, hops, cinnamon, and black pepper.

The key benefit of this terpene is the ability to bind to CB2 receptors. The caryophyllene molecule is larger than other terpene molecules and is the only terpene to contain a cyclobutene ring. Because of its shape, caryophyllene binds particularly to CB2 receptors, which is beneficial for the management of certain medical conditions. CB1 receptors are found in the central nervous system and brain but, CB2 receptors can be found in our secondary organs. The terpene is neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory. It can reduce neuropathic nerve pain and inflammation. It aids with addiction management by reducing the urge for voluntary alcohol consumption. It has antibacterial properties which can help can fight off oral bacteria causing dental plaque, E. coli, Streptococcus pneumonia, and Haemophilus influenza. Due to a mechanism at CB2 receptors that can have an effect on mood disorders, caryophyllene has anxiolytic and anti-depressant properties. It can aid in appetite suppression when combined with humulene terpene. This antioxidant terpene helps with brain damage in Alzheimer’s patients and patients who have suffered strokes by reducing neuroinflammation and swelling.

Caryophyllene oxide forms when caryophyllene oxidizes in the body. This is the key element that drug-sniffing dogs use to detect cannabis.

Common strains containing caryophyllene: Sour Diesel and strains that fall under the Cookies family of cannabis