Scientific research estimates that there are 200 terpenes present in the cannabis plant, but most of them exist in trace elements. This leaves a list of 10 primary terpenes and 20 secondary terpenes which can present themselves in numerous combinations to produce a strain’s distinctive cannabis aroma and flavor. So what is so special about the caryophyllene terpene?
A simple explanation of terpenes
It was in 1942 that researchers first defined terpenes in the cannabis plant from other cannabinoids. Terpenes are not unique to cannabis and many plants produce these chemical compounds through natural processes as part of their defense system against weather and predators that want to eat them. However, for the cannabis connoisseur these compounds take on a whole new relevance. It’s not just about enhancing the sensual experience or the potential to bring health benefits, but its generally accepted that terpenes in combination with cannabinoids (THC, CBD, CBN etc) produce an entourage effect. In simple terms, the effect of the cannabis plant on the user is perceived to be a result of the sum of its parts
What is the caryophyllene terpene?
Caryophyllene is one of the 10 primary terpenes, alongside other common terps such as myrcene, limonene, linalool and humulene. It is found in cannabis plants as well as hops, cloves and pepper. Anybody familiar with these flower based foodstuffs is aware of the pronounced flavoring, although hops are better known as a component of beer. In terms of its influence on cannabis aroma and flavor, the caryophyllene terpene brings pepper and spice to the taste (as you would expect!) and also a woody texture to the flavor.
Why is caryophyllene special?
What makes caryophyllene stand out from other terpenes is the scientific discovery that it is the only terpene that can also act as a cannabinoid. It has the ability to bond to CB2 receptors in the human endocannabinoid system. This makes it an interesting proposition in relation to medical cannabis research.
What are the medical benefits of caryophyllene?
As with much medical cannabis investigation, scientific research remains patchy in terms of portraying a comprehensive picture of how cannabis compounds can play a decisive role in human health. Without a broad base of evidence, science tends to talk about the ‘potential benefits’. With this in mind, potential benefits of caryophyllene which have been identified in relation to the treatment of anxiety and depression. Its doubling up as a cannabinoid which binds to the body’s endocannabinoid receptors has also seen other potential benefits identified from anti-inflammatory to pain relief, seizure management and even cholesterol reduction.
Are caryophyllene and beta-caryophyllene different terpenes?
No. This can be rather confusing as the two terms are frequently used, but they mean the same things and they are interchangeable.
Cannabis strains that are rich in caryophyllene
White Noise (Original White Widow IBL x selected Space Cookies)
Dominant terpenes: Beta-caryophyllene, alpha-humulene, alpha-bisabolol
The dominant terpene in White Noise, an extremely robust and resistant plant, is beta-caryophyllene, which is really evident in the underlying earthiness of this strain and reinforced by a high percentage of alpha-humulene (which also shares an earthy quality).
Limonene and linalool contribute to the fruitiness while high levels of alpha-bisabolol accentuate the floral sweetness of the aroma.
Glowstarz (San Fernando Valley Kush x Gelato 33)
Dominant terpenes: Beta-caryophyllene, alpha-humulene, limonene
Glowstarz is another Californian strain which has beta-caryophyllene as its dominant terpene. There is certainly a peppery spiciness to the sweetness, pine and diesel which run through the cannabis aroma and flavor of this strain.
Tangerine Sorbet (Wappa x Thin Mint Cookies
Dominant terpenes: Beta-caryophyllene, alpha-humulene, limonene
Beta-caryophyllene is also the dominant primary terpene in this member of the Wappa family (or as she is affectionately known, Wappa’s Californian cousin!). While the dominant terpenes of Tangerine Sorbet are the same as Glowstarz, different percentages significantly change the taste profile, with skunky sweetness being the flavor trait of this strain along with the peppery spice characteristic.