Terpene Spotlight: Beta-Caryophyllene

You may already know about the cannabinoids CBD and THC, but there are hundreds of other compounds that hemp produces. One such class of compounds gaining attention is terpenes. Researchers are investigating how terpenes affect humans when consumed and their potential uses. Beta-Caryophyllene (“bay-tah carey-oh-fi-leen”) is one of the major terpenes found in hemp and plays a significant role in how hemp smells. You probably have some beta-caryophyllene in your kitchen and might not know it. Many spices, like black pepper and cinnamon, contain beta-caryophyllene.

In this post, we’ll discuss:

• What beta-caryophyllene is
• Where beta-caryophyllene can be found in nature
• What research says about beta-caryophyllene’s potential benefits

 

What Are Terpenes?

Before we delve into beta-caryophyllene, it’s important to understand what terpenes are. Terpenes are highly aromatic hydrocarbon compounds composed of small isoprene units. Depending on the number of isoprene units, terpenes are classified as monoterpenes (two isoprenes), sesquiterpenes (three isoprenes), and diterpenes (four isoprenes). In hemp, terpenes typically make up about 1-2% of the weight of a hemp flower.

Many plants and some animals produce terpenes for various reasons, such as repelling pests and attracting beneficial insects. The aroma of many plants is at least partially dictated by terpenes.

Examples of Terpenes in Everyday Life:

• Limonene: Found in citrus fruits and their rinds. It’s responsible for the fresh, zesty smell.
• Myrcene: Present in hops and mangoes, it offers a musky, earthy scent and is often associated with relaxing effects.
• Terpinolene: Common in many soaps and cosmetics, providing a sweet, floral fragrance.

Understanding terpenes is crucial because they contribute not only to the aroma but also to the therapeutic properties of plants. For instance, aromatherapy uses essential oils rich in terpenes to promote health and well-being.

What is Beta-Caryophyllene?

Beta-caryophyllene has a larger molecular footprint than other terpenes like terpinolene or linalool because it is composed of three isoprene units. This sesquiterpene is unique in that it directly activates CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid system, making it both a terpene and a cannabinoid.

Beta-Caryophyllene in Nature:

Researchers believe that hemp plants produce beta-caryophyllene to ward off herbivorous predators, citing its bitter taste as a deterrent. Additionally, beta-caryophyllene attracts green lacewing insects that feed on pests, providing another layer of protection.

Beta-caryophyllene is found in many common spices like cinnamon, clove, and black pepper, as well as in herbs like rosemary, oregano, and basil. The woodsy, pungent, spicy aroma of freshly cracked black pepper is dominated by beta-caryophyllene.

Fun Fact: Beta-caryophyllene directly activates the CB2 cannabinoid receptor in humans, making it unique among terpenes.

Moreover, the activation of CB2 receptors by beta-caryophyllene has piqued the interest of researchers. This interaction is believed to play a role in regulating immune response, inflammation, and pain perception. Unlike CB1 receptors, which are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system and are responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids like THC, CB2 receptors are mostly found in peripheral tissues and immune cells.

This makes beta-caryophyllene an exciting area of study for its potential therapeutic benefits, especially because it does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with cannabinoids that activate CB1 receptors. As research progresses, beta-caryophyllene might become an important component in the development of new treatments for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

What is Beta-Caryophyllene Used For?

Foods containing high amounts of beta-caryophyllene have been historically used to promote calm and comfort. Think of the holidays with hot mulled cider and spiced cookies featuring cinnamon and clove – we start to feel cozy just thinking about it!

Potential Benefits of Beta-Caryophyllene:

• Analgesic: Studies suggest beta-caryophyllene can help reduce pain by interacting with CB2 receptors. This could make it a natural alternative to traditional painkillers.
• Anti-inflammatory: Beta-caryophyllene’s anti-inflammatory properties have been documented in various studies, indicating its potential in treating conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
• Antimalarial: Preliminary research indicates beta-caryophyllene may have antimalarial properties, though more studies are needed to confirm its efficacy.
• Antinociceptive: This property refers to the ability to block the detection of a painful or injurious stimulus by sensory neurons. Beta-caryophyllene’s interaction with CB2 receptors is key to this effect.
• Gastric Cytoprotective: Beta-caryophyllene has shown promise in protecting the stomach lining, potentially aiding in the treatment of ulcers and other gastric issues.
• Eases Gut Muscle Spasms: Its ability to relax muscles can be particularly beneficial for conditions that cause gastrointestinal spasms.
• Eases Anxiety & Depression Symptoms: Beta-caryophyllene’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

However, it’s important to note that research is ongoing and these results still need verification through high-quality placebo-controlled studies. The therapeutic potential of beta-caryophyllene continues to be a promising area of research, and future studies may uncover even more benefits.

Comparing Beta-Caryophyllene with Competitors

In the realm of terpenes and their potential health benefits, beta-caryophyllene stands out for its unique properties. While other terpenes like myrcene, limonene, and linalool are well-known for their aromatic qualities and therapeutic potential, beta-caryophyllene’s ability to interact with CB2 receptors sets it apart.

Comparative Overview:

• Myrcene: Known for its sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, myrcene is common in hops and mangoes. It contributes to the “couch-lock” effect in cannabis.
• Limonene: This terpene, found in citrus rinds, is noted for its mood-enhancing and stress-relieving effects. It’s commonly used in aromatherapy.
• Linalool: Found in lavender, linalool is celebrated for its calming and anti-anxiety properties. It’s a popular ingredient in many essential oils.

Beta-caryophyllene’s dual role as both a terpene and a cannabinoid gives it a unique edge in the market. Its interaction with the endocannabinoid system is more targeted compared to other terpenes, making it a subject of great interest in the development of new therapeutic applications.

Sunset Lake CBD Cultivars Featuring Beta-Caryophyllene

Each year, we send samples of our hemp flowers to a certified laboratory for analysis of the terpene profile of each cultivar. Here is a breakdown of the beta-caryophyllene content in the 2022 crop of Sunset Lake CBD hemp flowers, listed by cultivar. Even though the percentages may look small, terpenes are potent and a little goes a long way!

• Cherry Abacus – 0.51%
• Sour Lifter – 0.51%
• Lifter – 0.48%
• Sour Suver Haze – 0.44%
• Candy Kush – 0.41%
• Super Sour Space Candy – 0.39%
• Suver Haze – 0.37%
• Hawaiian Haze – 0.19%

Note: The percentage of terpenes is reported on a by-weight basis.

These results highlight the presence of beta-caryophyllene across different cultivars, emphasizing its prevalence and potential benefits in our products. The detailed analysis ensures that our customers are informed about the specific terpene profiles of the hemp flowers they purchase, allowing them to make educated choices based on their personal preferences and therapeutic needs.

FAQs About Beta-Caryophyllene

What is beta-caryophyllene?

1. Beta-caryophyllene is a terpene found in hemp and various spices like black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. It is unique because it directly activates CB2 receptors in the human endocannabinoid system.

What are the potential benefits of beta-caryophyllene?

1. Beta-caryophyllene may offer benefits such as pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, and easing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Research is ongoing to verify these effects.

Where can I find beta-caryophyllene naturally?

1. Beta-caryophyllene is found in many common kitchen spices, including black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves, as well as herbs like rosemary, oregano, and basil.

How does beta-caryophyllene affect the human body?

1. Beta-caryophyllene interacts with the endocannabinoid system by directly activating CB2 receptors, which may contribute to its potential therapeutic effects.

Is beta-caryophyllene considered a cannabinoid?

1. Yes, beta-caryophyllene is unique among terpenes because it acts like a cannabinoid by directly interacting with CB2 receptors.