Terpene series: Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene, more formally known as beta or b caryophyllene, is an extremely common terpene found in cannabis that is known for its herbal spiciness with hints of wood. It is most commonly found in black pepper, cinnamon, and hops.

Anyone with an affinity for spicy cooking has probably come in contact with caryophyllene at some point. Dishes from cinnamon French toast to pepper steak may contain caryophyllene. Additionally, caryophyllene has preservative properties and is found in the hops that flavour and stabilise beer. Although beer is the most widely known beverage to contain hops, it is not the only one. Hops, and therefore caryophyllene, may be found in certain types of vodka and “hopped” whiskeys. Caryophyllene has also been used as a flavouring agent in chewing gum to enhance a citrusy or spicy flavour profile. The terpene may be found in detergents and numerous topical skin products.

Caryophyllene has a strong, spicy, peppery scent, which it lends to essential oils with similar aroma profiles. Clove, basil, ylang ylang, rosemary, and black caraway are examples of caryophyllene-rich essential oils. Clove essential oil is notable for its numbing effect on pain, notably toothaches. Ylang-ylang essential oil, derived from a tropical tree native to India, is often integrated into perfumes as well as used in religious ceremonies in parts of Asia.

Fun Fact: Caryophyllene is unique because of its ability to bind to CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system after being consumed orally.

Boiling Point  - 130 Degrees Celsius