Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene (beta-caryophyllene, BCP) is unique among the over 30,000 known terpenes in nature: it is the only terpene that directly activates a cannabinoid receptor, binding to CB2 receptors with documented agonist activity. This makes caryophyllene technically a cannabinoid by function despite its terpene chemistry, and it qualifies as the only "dietary cannabinoid" since it's present in many common foods (black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, oregano, hops). The CB2 receptor is concentrated in the immune system and peripheral tissues rather than the brain, which is why caryophyllene activation produces therapeutic effects without intoxication. Pharmacology: CB2 agonist activity produces anti-inflammatory effects comparable to NSAIDs without GI side effects, neuroprotective effects in stroke and neurodegenerative disease models, anti-anxiety effects through CB2-mediated pathways distinct from CB1, anti-addictive properties (caryophyllene reduces alcohol-seeking behavior in rats and shows promise for cocaine addiction treatment), pain relief without opioid system involvement, and immune modulation. Other documented activities include hepatoprotective effects, anti-tumor activity in colon cancer and breast cancer cells, gastro-protective effects, anti-diabetic activity through improved insulin sensitivity, and longevity extension in C. elegans models. Strains naturally high in caryophyllene: OG Kush (0.7-1.4% caryophyllene), GSC / Girl Scout Cookies (0.5-1.0%), Bubba Kush (0.4-0.9%), Sour Diesel (0.4-0.8%), Original Glue (0.5-1.0%), Master Kush (0.4-0.7%), Death Star (0.3-0.6%). The combination of high caryophyllene + high THC produces some of the strongest pain-relief and inflammation-reduction effects in cannabis, which is why kush varieties dominate medical cannabis recommendations for chronic pain. Caryophyllene evaporates at 320°F, preserved at standard vaporization temperatures. Caryophyllene is among the most stable cannabis terpenes during storage, retaining its activity for months in properly stored flower.