Every plant, herb, and flower has fragrant essential oils called terpenes. These are especially abundant in cannabis, but often, the medicinal values of THC and CBD overshadow the terpenes. The initial assumption was that terpenes only produced flavor and scent.
However, further research shows terpenes are part of the entourage effect in which all terpenes and cannabinoids work together to improve the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. Terpenes can hinder or enhance the strength of THC and CBD in a cannabis plant. So, this overshadowed part has now become center stage in creating new cannabis strains.
There are hundreds of terpene types found in cannabis, but only a few occur in significant concentrations to warrant interest. One of those significant terpenes is the focus for today: beta-caryophyllene. This terpene has a significant medicinal effect that has made it worthy of research and interest.
Let’s dive in and learn more about this super-terpene.
What Is Beta-Caryophyllene?
This first question is the most critical place to start. It is sometimes called caryophyllene, beta-caryophyllene, or BCP. Beta-Caryophyllene is distinct as a spicy, peppery terpene. It often has a high natural concentration in cloves, black pepper, rosemary, cinnamon, hops, and basil. Of course, it is also present in cannabis, which is why it matters here.
BCP is unique because it occurs naturally but can also be human-made. It occurs in medicinal plants beyond cannabis, so it helps with health conditions in other forms. This specific terpene is FDA-approved as a food additive and is undergoing research to see if it is suitable for use in pharmaceuticals.
Beta-Caryophyllene Benefits: What Does BCP Treat?
Beta-caryophyllene is best-known for aiding in anti-inflammation because it binds to CB2 receptors, the part of endocannabinoid systems that regulate inflammation.
BCP goes beyond this to help treat several health concerns, including:
- It can facilitate weight loss. The compound, in combination with humulene in doses of 10 to 200 mg, helps to suppress the appetite.
- It can help treat alcoholism. The potential for BCP to treat alcoholism is the result of studies with mice, which showed CB2 receptors play a part in alcohol sensitivity and dependence. BCP can help mediate alcohol intake.
- It may slow cancer. BCP inhibits tumor growth and reduces the progression of cancer.
- It could enhance the longevity of life. A person’s longevity can increase by modulating stress, which, in turn, increases lifespan.
- It may curb rates of depression and anxiety. When BCP combines with CB2 receptors, it can soothe depression and anxiety since CB2 receptors contribute to mood disorders.
- It promotes brain health. BCP reduces neuroinflammation and increases antioxidant levels. Overall, BCP can minimize swelling, seizures, and brain damage after a stroke by improving blood flow. BCP can activate CB2 receptors and offset dementia, help prevent Parkinson’s, and fight Alzheimer’s.
In terms of the use of medical cannabis, beta-caryophyllene is one that helps improve the effect drastically. The number of health benefits it offers is phenomenal in the world of medical marijuana.
Strains with Beta-Caryophyllene and What to Know
There are a few popular strains of BCP – and a few things to know before you buy. It is possible to find BCP in Sour Diesel, a popular strain used for pain, depression, and stress relief. It is also common in topicals used for inflammation. Some popular strains with BCP concentrations include:
- Bubba Kush: This indica strain has subtle hints of coffee and chocolate, and it is known for heavy, tranquilizing effects.
- OG Kush: Another stress-reliever, this one has a lemon-pine aroma and combines with other terpenes like pinene, limonene, and myrcene. Each has a different focus, including anti-inflammation, mood-enhancer, and relaxation.
- Rockstar: Another indica hybrid, this one will offer aromatic grape and spice for pain and headache relief as well as insomnia assistance.
- Chemdawg: This is the parent strain of hybrids Sour Diesel and OG Kush. It is recognizable by its diesel-like aroma and relaxing effects.
Conclusion
Beta-caryophyllene, and terpenes, in general, go a long way in helping cannabis achieve curative effects. BCP is easily found at most dispensaries and helps with several medical concerns. It can also just help you achieve ultimate relaxation!
Exploring the world of cannabis means researching the growing medicinal benefits of the plant. Beta-caryophyllene is a prime example of the ever-increasing awareness of the positive effects of cannabis, and the future looks promising as researchers discover the benefits of terpenes and more uses for cannabis.