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Terpene guide
Caryophyllene (β-Caryophyllene)
Peppery, spicy, woody
Caryophyllene is the terpene that behaves like a cannabinoid. It's the only known terpene that binds directly to the CB2 receptor — the same receptor cannabinoids like CBG interact with for inflammation. That gives it a research profile the other terpenes don't have.
Effects reported
- • Anti-inflammatory activity
- • Pain modulation via CB2
- • Neuroprotective research
- • Potentially gastroprotective
Also found in
- • Black pepper
- • Cloves
- • Cinnamon
- • Hops
Boiling point
266°F (130°C)
Pairs with
- • Myrcene for pain-with-sedation
- • Limonene for pain-with-mood-lift
- • CBD for anti-inflammatory stacking
Deep dive
Caryophyllene is the terpene inflammation researchers keep returning to. Because it binds the CB2 receptor directly — a receptor concentrated in immune tissue and the peripheral nervous system — it produces measurable effects without the intoxication that comes from CB1 (THC's primary target).
For patients with chronic pain, sickle cell, autoimmune conditions, and inflammatory bowel issues, caryophyllene often appears in the products that end up on the 'keeper' shelf. It also has the interesting property of being an entourage-contributor without meaningfully changing how alert you feel.
On a Kentucky COA, caryophyllene is one of the terpenes most likely to be significant even in high-THC recreational-lineage cultivars — which is why patients can sometimes find real analgesic support in strains that weren't specifically bred for medical use. Look for anything above 0.3% caryophyllene when inflammation or pain is the target.
Related conditions
Patients often ask about Caryophyllene (β-Caryophyllene) for
Educational information only. Terpene research is still evolving; effects are reported patterns from patient and preclinical literature, not medical advice. Discuss cannabis use with a licensed practitioner familiar with your medical history.