Caryophyllene: The Spicy Terpene with Unique Medicinal Properties
Caryophyllene, also known as beta-caryophyllene (BCP), is a terpene that gives black pepper its spiciness and is found in other plants such as cloves, hops, rosemary, and cannabis strains like Acapulco Gold. But BCP is more than just a flavor enhancer – it also has powerful medical benefits, acting as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. However, what sets BCP apart is its ability to reduce alcohol intake and potentially prolong life.
BCP is a complex terpene, made up of three isoprene rings and containing unique features like a cyclobutane ring, which is rarely found in nature. This has caught the attention of researchers, who have been increasingly studying cyclobutanes for their “relevant biological properties.” BCP is no exception.
The Different Types of Caryophyllene
While BCP is the most common type of caryophyllene found in cannabis and food, there are two other types that can also be found in nature. Trans-caryophyllene (TC) is a sesquiterpene that is often present in cannabis strains high in BCP. It shares similar medicinal properties with other terpenes, but does not activate the endocannabinoid system. Caryophyllene oxide, on the other hand, is a result of the oxidation of BCP and can be thought of as the “hashishene” of myrcene.
Interestingly, while a foundational study on terpenes in cannabis did not record the amount of BCP in samples, it did report on the amounts of TC and caryophyllene oxide. They found that TC was the second most abundant terpene, ranging from 3.8% to 37.5% of the total terpenes, while caryophyllene oxide was present in trace amounts to 11.3% in one sample.
According to the cannabis testing lab ACS Laboratory, caryophyllene oxide is the “aromatic component drug dogs smell to identify cannabis” and can also be found in lemons, oregano, and eucalyptus.
Boosting BCP in Plants
If you’re a cultivator looking to increase the amount of BCP in your plants, growing them in the sun may be the answer. It is believed that BCP and another terpene, humulene, act as protection against UV light, so growing plants outdoors can naturally increase their defenses.
The First Dietary Cannabinoid
BCP is unique among all other terpenes, as it was the first to be identified as a “dietary cannabinoid.” This means that it can be obtained through food rather than cannabis consumption. BCP has been found to interact with the body’s CB2 receptor sites, similar to how cannabinoids do. It can be found in various herbs and spices like black pepper, cloves, and rosemary, as well as green leafy vegetables. While not sources of BCP, brassica vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower contain other dietary cannabinoids, as do chocolate and echinacea.
In conclusion, BCP is a versatile and powerful terpene with unique medicinal properties. Whether you’re looking to add some spice to your food or boost the health benefits of your plants, BCP is a terpene worth paying attention to.
