Beta-caryophyllene: properties and uses
Beta-caryophyllene is a bicyclic sesquiterpene or terpene, found in all varieties of cannabis and many other plants, such as pepper, sage, rosemary and hops. It is a terpene with an intense, spicy smell, which has unique medical and industrial properties.
Beta-caryophyllene, does not cause psychoactive effects however it does interact with the cannabinoids THC, CBD and CBN in cannabis. It binds to the CB2 receptor of the endocannabinoid system, which occurs in humans and animals. THC, in turn, binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors. Beta-caryophyllene in hemp can make up over 25% of all terpenes, which contributes to its characteristic smell.
Police Training Dogs
Due to the high presence of beta-caryophyllene in hemp, synthetic versions of this terpene compound are used to train police dogs to detect hemp. Beta-caryophyllene is used in this role because its smell is intense and easy for animals to recognize.
Use in the cosmetics, food and fuel industries
Beta-caryophyllene is also used in many other industries. In the form of caryophyllene alcohol, it is used in cosmetic products such as shampoos and face creams. As a fragrance ingredient, it is also used in food products.
In addition, beta-caryophyllene and its derivatives show potential in replacing petroleum fuels. Thanks to their high energy density, these compounds are becoming an interesting alternative to traditional energy sources, and advances in the production of beta-caryophyllene from microbial sources may contribute to more ecological energy solutions.
Medical properties of Beta-caryophyllene
Beta-caryophyllene has a number of beneficial health properties:
- Anti-inflammatory: beta-caryophyllene reduces inflammation in both the brain and the intestines. It may protect against swelling and damage resulting from vascular injuries.
- Antibacterial and antimicrobial: helps fight bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumonia, Haemophilus influenza, E. coli, as well as in the fight against dental plaque. It can be an alternative to drugs such as chlorhexidine.
- Mood improvement: beta-caryophyllene has anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, reducing anxiety and depression. In studies on mice, the administration of beta-caryophyllene improved the results of tests measuring these conditions.
Fighting osteoporosis: Beta-caryophyllene may play a role in preventing osteoporosis and maintaining bone density, which is particularly important in preventing skeletal diseases. - Anti-cancer: Beta-caryophyllene has the potential to inhibit the growth of cancer cells, making it a potential cancer therapy.
- Alzheimer's disease: According to research conducted by Chongqing University in China, beta-caryophyllene may help fight Alzheimer's disease. Activation of the CB2 receptor reduces the neuroinflammatory response, and agonists of CB2 and PPARĪ³ receptors may help treat the disease.
Beta-caryophyllene is a versatile terpene with health, industrial, and medical properties. Its wide-ranging applications, from medicine to the fuel industry, can bring many benefits in various areas of life.
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Liz Filmer
