Beta-Caryophyllene: Terpene or Cannabinoid?

In the ever-expanding research into cannabis and hemp, many new discoveries are taking place revolving around the naturally produced compounds that make these plants so fascinating. Researchers are investigating the effects of minor cannabinoids like CBG (cannabidiolic acid) and CBC (cannabichromene). Scientists have uncovered new aromatic molecules like volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), which are responsible for the skunk smell in cannabis, and discovered hundreds of other aromatic compounds in cannabis, including thiols and esters. Thanks to legalization, we're piecing together the intricate network of constituents in cannabis plants and their interactions with the human body.

One molecule in particular that has gained rising attention lately is beta-caryophyllene. For years, scent scientists have categorized beta-caryophyllene as a common botanical terpene. However, ongoing research into the effects of beta-caryophyllene on the human endocannabinoid system (ECS) has established that it is, in fact, both a terpene and a cannabinoid! Studies have shown that beta-caryophyllene functions within both these categories, making it quite fascinating in the world of plant chemistry and newsworthy in the cannabis industry. 

Terpene Classification 

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in flowers, trees, fruit and herbs, including cannabis. They play a crucial role in giving each strain its distinctive scent and flavour profile. 

Beta-caryophyllene is a naturally occurring botanical terpene found in many plants, including black pepper, cannabis, hops, cloves, and other herbs and spices. If you're familiar with the warm, spicy, peppery aroma of black pepper, you have encountered the essence of beta-caryophyllene's sensory experience.

What distinguishes beta-caryophyllene as a terpene is that it contributes to the aroma and flavour profile of cannabis strains that contain it. Its signature spicy and earthy notes give cultivars like Gorilla Glue and Girl Scout Cookies their distinct scent and character. 

At the molecular level, it falls under the terpene category due to its specific chemical structure, characterized by a complex arrangement of carbon and hydrogen atoms. Its chemical composition contributes to the recognizable warm, spicy, and subtly sweet scent notes. Beta-caryophyllene can be further classified into a subgroup of terpenes known as sesquiterpenes. Generally, sesquiterpenes are recognized for their robust, earthy scents. These aromatic attributes are precisely why beta-caryophyllene is commonly considered a terpene.

Beyond Cannabis: Beta-Caryophyllene in Aromatherapy

The aromatic signature of beta-caryophyllene extends beyond cannabis studies as it has also found its place in aromatherapy. Aromatherapists value this terpene for its gentle, pain-relieving and grounding qualities. Aside from black pepper and cannabis, it is also found in the essential oils of basil and Ylang Ylang. 

When present in essential oils, beta-caryophyllene's spicy, herbaceous notes are considered to promote relaxation and balance, making it a beneficial therapeutic component in many aromatherapy blends. Its value in alternative therapies like traditional aromatherapy adds merit to its functionality and distinction as a terpene. 

Cannabinoid Classification

Now, let's explore how beta-caryophyllene acts as a cannabinoid rather than a terpene. Beta-caryophyllene is unique because, unlike other terpenes which interact with our olfactory system, it interacts with our body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates functions like pain perception and inflammation. 

An Atypical Cannabinoid

Classical cannabinoids are well-known cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), and CBN (cannabinol). They engage with our endocannabinoid system by binding to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Beta-caryophyllene was discovered to be one of the first non-classical or atypical cannabinoids. 

Atypical cannabinoids are a group of cannabinoids that interact with the ECS through unique mechanisms of action. They often have different effects and properties compared to classical cannabinoids, making them an intriguing area of study in the field of cannabis research as their function within the ECS is less understood. Beta-caryophyllene is categorized as an atypical cannabinoid due to its action as a selective activator of the CB2 cannabinoid receptor, which is primarily found in immune cells, rather than the CB1 receptor, which is associated with the psychoactive effects of THC.

Additionally, what separates beta-caryophyllene from classical cannabinoids is that THC and CBD are almost exclusively associated with cannabis plants. In contrast, beta-caryophyllene can be extracted from many other botanicals. 

A Dietary Cannabinoid

Beta-caryophyllene also holds a rare distinction as the first dietary cannabinoid. These are cannabinoid compounds that are naturally found in certain foods or plants and can be safely consumed as part of a regular diet. This makes sense, as beta-caryophyllene is commonly found in food sources like black pepper, cloves, hops, and rosemary. Dietary cannabinoids like beta-caryophyllene offer many potential health benefits and can be incorporated into your wellness routines by consuming foods and herbs that naturally contain them. 

Health Benefits of Beta-Caryophyllene

Due to its unique interactions with the ECS and its various chemical categorizations, beta-caryophyllene is the subject of extensive research! Some of the known health benefits associated with beta-caryophyllene include:

Anti-Inflammatory Terpene: Beta-caryophyllene has been shown to help reduce inflammation, which is a factor in many chronic health conditions.

Terpene for Pain Relief: By interacting with the CB2 receptor, beta-caryophyllene potentially offers natural pain relief, making it a promising compound for those suffering from chronic pain.

Terpene for Stress and Anxiety: Some studies suggest that beta-caryophyllene may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. It is often used in aromatherapy to assist individuals in managing stress and anxiety.

Gastrointestinal Health: Research has shown that beta-caryophyllene may protect the gastrointestinal tract, making it a potential resource for gastrointestinal health support.

Beta-Caryophyllene: A Dynamic Compound

Beta-caryophyllene may be common, but it's still fascinating. Found in some cannabis strains and various other plants, its dual identity as both a terpene and a cannabinoid makes it a subject of interest for researchers and cannabis enthusiasts alike. 

From its unique molecular structure, which imparts a signature spicy and earthy aroma into the scent and flavour profiles of cannabis strains, to its role in discovering new categories of cannabinoids, beta-caryophyllene's impact on cannabis research is undeniable. Whether contributing to the aroma of your favourite cultivar or interacting with our endocannabinoid system, beta-caryophyllene showcases the complexity and versatility of the cannabis plant. Not to mention its many therapeutic benefits, and this is just the beginning of cannabis research into atypical cannabinoids like beta-caryophyllene. We may discover even more robust actions as the research develops on this small but dynamic molecule.

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