Did you know that Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give cannabis plants, as well as other plants, their distinct smell and flavour.

Get to Know: Beta-Caryophyllene

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give cannabis plants, as well as other plants, their distinct smell and flavour. Around 200 terpenes have been identified in cannabis, although more than 25,000 different types of terpenes exist in nature1,2.

Terpenes are believed to contribute towards the therapeutic effects of cannabis. Knowing the terpenes that are present in their medical cannabis products can help patients better predict the benefits and effects that they might experience.

One of the terpene’s that’s most abundantly found in cannabis is known as beta-Caryophyllene.

Beta-Caryophyllene is commonly found in strongly scented herbs and spices such as clove, rosemary, and black pepper. It’s thought to ward off unwanted pests and diseases, which may contribute to its widespread occurrence3.

Beta-Caryophyllene produces a spicy, woody, peppery aroma and is used as an additive to many types of products including soaps, detergents, creams, lotions, and perfumes.

Possible Effects of Beta-Caryophyllene

Beta-Caryophyllene is found in many medicinal plants, including cannabis, and is suggested to have analgesic (pain relief), anti-convulsant (anti-seizure), anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties4.

Beta-Caryophyllene in Aphria Products

The full terpene profiles of each product can be found on their product pages and by reading our “What Are Terpenes” blog here.
Learn more about the product selection process here.

References

  1. Russo (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology 163: 1344–1364.
  2. Gershenzon and Dudareva (2007). The function of terpene natural products in the natural world. Natural Chemical Biology 3: 408-414.
  3. Huang et al. (2012). The major volatile organic compound emitted from Arabidopsis thaliana flowers, the sesquiterpene (E)‐β‐caryophyllene, is a defense against a bacterial pathogen. New Phytologist 193:997-1008.
  4. Nuttinen (2018). Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus

The post Terpene of the Month: Beta-Caryophyllene appeared first on Aphria | Medical Marijuana Canada.