Beta caryophyllene
Synopsis of beta caryophyllene
Beta-caryophyllene (β-caryophyllene) is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene found in a variety of plants and essential oils, most notably in black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, cannabis, copaiba, oregano, and basil. It is unique among terpenes because it directly interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, particularly the CB2 receptor, making it both a terpene and a dietary cannabinoid.
Unlike THC, which activates CB1 receptors in the brain and causes psychoactive effects, beta-caryophyllene selectively binds to CB2 receptors, which are predominantly found in immune cells and peripheral tissues. This allows it to provide potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects without causing a “high.”
Key therapeutic actions of beta-caryophyllene include:
- Reducing chronic inflammation and neuropathic pain
- Supporting immune modulation
- Protecting the digestive tract and supporting gut health
- Easing anxiety and stress, possibly through CB2 activation and interaction with serotonin pathways
- Offering neuroprotective and cardiovascular benefits
Because it is naturally present in many common herbs and spices, beta-caryophyllene is also recognized as a food-grade, GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) substance by the FDA.
Historical Use:
While beta-caryophyllene as a distinct compound has only been identified and studied in modern phytochemistry, the plants rich in this terpene have long histories of medicinal use in various traditional systems:
- Black pepper has been used in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine for improving digestion, circulation, and pain relief.
- Clove and cinnamon were employed in medieval and Middle Eastern herbalism for their warming, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties.
- Copaiba resin, rich in beta-caryophyllene, has been used by Amazonian tribes for pain, skin issues, and wound healing for centuries.
Today, beta-caryophyllene is a focal point in cannabinoid research, particularly for its potential in managing inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders, mood imbalances, and chronic pain—without the legal or psychoactive concerns of cannabis-based products. It is increasingly used in essential oil blends, supplements, and topical formulations, making it a versatile tool in both natural medicine and functional wellness.
Beta caryophyllene is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Scientific)
Addictions (drugs) (Scientific)
Addictions (general remedies for) (Scientific)
Alcoholism (Scientific)
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Anxiety (Scientific)
Anxiety Disorders (Scientific)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Asthma (Scientific)
Backache (Scientific)
Bites and Stings (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Scientific)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (Scientific)
Colitis (Scientific)
Cuts (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Dermatitis (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Scientific)
Eczema (Scientific)
Emphysema (Scientific)
Epilepsy (Scientific)
Fibromyalgia Syndrome (Scientific)
Gastritis (Scientific)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
Liver Detoxification (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Migraine (Scientific)
Mood Swings (Scientific)
Neuralgia and Neuritis (Scientific)
Osteoporosis (Scientific)
Pain (general remedies for) (Scientific)
Parkinson's Disease (Scientific)
beta caryophyllene is used to support these body systems
Brain (Scientific)
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Joints (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Parasympathetic Nervous System (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
Sympathetic Nervous System (Scientific)
