6 min read
Cecily Grace Morgan
Cannabis sativa L. produces a host of different cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, that may act therapeutically. Cannabis plants also produce a range of terpenes, most often cited for their aromatic qualities, but some research suggests that they could have therapeutic potential.
We want to help patients understand terpenes and how they may impact their medicine. The starting point is caryophyllene, which is thought to be the only terpene to activate cannabinoid receptors in the body.
Key takeaways
Contents
Caryophyllene, also known as beta-caryophyllene (BCP), is a terpene that is produced across the plant kingdom. It is found in many plants, including rosemary, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, hops, and basil.
Like all terpenes, caryophyllene has its own unique scent profile, which leans towards the spicy end of the spectrum. It is often associated with freshly ground black pepper or cinnamon's sweet spiciness.
It is currently believed that caryophyllene is the only terpene that directly interacts with and binds to one of the body's cannabinoid receptors (CB2). Cannabinoids like THC and CBD also bind to these receptors. Caryophyllene can thus be considered a ‘cannabinoid’, as it demonstrates activity when bound to the CB2 receptor.
This reported ability to bind directly with receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) makes caryophyllene stand out amongst its terpene peers.
Caryophyllene is also an approved dietary terpene. It is classified as a Generally Recognised As Safe (GRAS) compound and has been used as a food additive for decades.
Caryophyllene is able to bind to and activate CB2 receptors in the ECS, which are primarily found in immune cells. The CB2 receptors live on the cell surface and may be able to support a range of anti-inflammatory effects when they are “switched on”.
As caryophyllene is believed to bind to these receptors, it may help to regulate the body's immune response and reduce inflammation.
Caryophyllene is one of the terpenes produced in the highest concentrations across many cannabis cultivars. When creating a treatment plan, Releaf specialists select cultivars that will best suit a patient’s condition and symptoms, and sometimes that includes cultivars that are rich in caryophyllene.
Some of the potential therapeutic benefits of caryophyllene may include:
Anti-inflammatory properties
Antioxidant effect
Anxiety and depression relief
Pain management
However, research on caryophyllene is currently narrow and mostly limited to animal studies, so much more evidence is needed before we can make any confident claims about its benefits.
It is important, at this stage, to explain the 'entourage effect'.
The entourage effect is a theory suggesting that when cannabis compounds (cannabinoids, terpenes, etc.) are taken together, the resulting effects are stronger and more diverse than when they are taken separately.
This means that when a patient takes a cannabis-based medication that includes both cannabinoids and terpenes, they may report experiencing greater symptom relief than if the medication contained only one of these compounds.
Caryophyllene's ability to interact with the CB2 receptor may enhance the effects of other cannabinoids in cannabis, especially when it comes to managing pain and inflammation. However, it’s important to note that the entourage effect is not currently widely accepted.
Terpenes generally come with few side effects, and that includes caryophyllene, which has been well tolerated in studies so far, including a 90-day study in rats and a small single-dose study in 24 healthy adults.
It's important to note that the best way to experience the therapeutic benefits of caryophyllene is through whole-plant medicine. Many 'full-spectrum' and 'broad-spectrum' medical cannabis products offer patients access to both terpenes and cannabinoids in one medication.
To get the best advice and guidance, it's important to always consult with a professional before starting any new treatment or medication. In the UK, medical cannabis can only be prescribed by a specialist doctor for specific conditions.
No, when taken by itself, caryophyllene will not cause any intoxicating effects.
The psychoactive effect of cannabis is caused by THC binding with the CB1 receptor.
Caryophyllene only binds to the CB2 receptor, so it will not cause intoxication or mind-altering effects.
No, there is no meaningful evidence that caryophyllene can cause anxiety. In fact, some small studies suggest it may actually have some anti-anxiety properties so it shouldn’t be regarded as a terpene to avoid if you want to reduce anxiety.
Terpenes are integral to essential oils and have been used in traditional medicine and aromatherapy for centuries.
You'll see caryophyllene added as a natural flavouring agent in food products, including spices, sauces, and beverages. It is also used in cosmetics and personal care products for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Outside of its potential therapeutic benefits, caryophyllene's spicy and woody aroma also makes it a popular choice in perfumery.
Patients have described caryophyllene as exhibiting a spicy, tangy, woody flavour with a slightly sweet taste.
When we eat a food product containing caryophyllene, it has to work its way through the digestive tract. This means that at least some of the compound will be broken down by digestive enzymes before it reaches the bloodstream, which can slow down the onset of effects.
Inhaled caryophyllene bypasses the digestive system, reaching the bloodstream quickly and in higher concentrations. This means that when inhaled, the potential effects of caryophyllene may be felt more immediately and intensely than when ingested.
Caryophyllene does not cause intoxication itself, and there’s no evidence that it can influence the high that THC can cause.
Some online sources claim that caryophyllene has appetite-suppressing effects, but the research backing this up is minimal. Humulene, another cannabis terpene, has been studied for its potential appetite-suppressing properties, but there is no concrete evidence that caryophyllene also offers this effect.
Caryophyllene can interact with the endocannabinoid system in a way that may reduce anxiety and stress, which could help contribute towards better sleep and might make it a terpene that could be beneficial for insomnia. One study in mice suggests that, when paired with CBD, caryophyllene may have anti-inflammatory effects, which may allow it to quell discomfort that might otherwise disrupt sleep.
Thought to be the only terpene capable of interacting directly with the endocannabinoid system’s CB2 receptors, caryophyllene is one of the most interesting compounds in medical cannabis. Its potential benefits for anti-inflammation and mood regulation might make it a valuable addition to a medical cannabis treatment plan for some patients.
You can learn more about cannabis-based therapy options in our education section and if you’re curious about whether medical cannabis treatment may be an option for you, our online eligibility checker is fast and free.
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