Terpene Spotlight: Caryophyllene

In the latest installment in our continuing series on individual terpenes, here we cover caryophyllene. This is a robust, spicy terp with notes of woody flavors. Which plants contain caryophyllene? What are its flavors and aromas like, and what are some potential benefits? Read on for more.

If you haven’t already checked out our previous terpene spotlight on limonene, be sure to do so right here. And if you’re brand new to the wonderful world of terpenes, you’ll want to start with our terpenes 101 article before diving deeper into our spotlight on caryophyllene.

What Does Caryophyllene Taste and Smell Like?

Caryophyllene is a terpene that lends itself to the pungent bite and spicy flavors in many foods, herbs, oils, and plants in our natural world. These include cloves, oregano, cinnamon, hops, and basil. If you’ve ever been delighted by the scent of freshly ground black pepper you have caryophyllene to thank for that.

Caryophyllene in Cannabis

Caryophyllene activates our cannabinoid systems and is the only terpene that we currently know of that also acts as a cannabinoid. This is due to caryophyllene’s unique ability to bind to the brain’s receptors in the endocannabinoid system.

Caryophyllene contains a colorless gas called cyclobutane, which is rare in nature and is not found in any other terpene, as far as we currently know.

In cannabis, caryophyllene lends itself to pungent, peppery flavors like those with Cookies, Diesel, White, Glue, and Chemdawg lineage.

Potential Benefits of Caryophyllene

Studies have shown that caryophyllene has several potential benefits. This terpene can possibly offer pain relief and may cause consumers to reduce their alcohol intake. Future applications of caryophyllene may lead to this terpene being utilized to treat addictions - most notably that of alcoholism.

Additionally, preliminary research suggests that caryophyllene acts as an anti-inflammatory and as an antioxidant, which may help patients with bowel ailments.

Due to the impact caryophyllene has on CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, the terpene may help with symptoms of anxiety and depression.

What’s more, the consumption of foods and substances containing caryophyllene may even help to prolong your lifespan. Studies have shown that this spicy terp can reduce gene stress, which could lead to the therapeutic potential of being an eventual aid in anti-aging.

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