Wednesday, April 1, 2015

The Terpene β-Caryophyllene in Cannabis

The Terpene β-Caryophyllene is the Only Approved Cannabinoid


The terpene caryophyllene gives a spicy peppery scent to some cannabis strains. It is also found in black pepper, cloves, cotton, hops, oregano and rosemary. β-Caryophyllene is a unique terpene categorized as a cannabinoid (BCP). This classification is from the way it effects the CB2 receptor. The relation with the receptor helps with anxiety, perception of pain and depression.(Source) Studies have also shown it to act as a neuroprotectant and reduce alcohol consumption.(Source)

Caryophyllene has been shown to help anxiety, arthritis, autoimmune disorders, inflammation, multiple sclerosis symptoms and gastrointestinal problems. Studies with β-Caryophyllene are promising for how it works as a cannabinoid without any psychotic effects. This is due to how it effects the CB2 receptors without effecting the CB1 receptors which give the marijuana high.(Source)

Strains that are high in caryophyllene include Super Silver Haze, Nevilles Haze and Hash Plant. Marijuana sniffing dogs are trained to look for the smell of Caryophyllene.(Source) Β-Caryophyllene is the first FDA approved cannabinoid.

Source:
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091305714001956

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