Caryophyllene is our next featured Terpene. As previously mentioned, terpenes are the aromatic (naturally occurring) chemical compounds found in plants and some animals. These compounds give lemons their lemon-y flavor or lavender their dreamy flowery scent.
Caryophyllene is a special terpene because it is the only terpene to also be a cannabinoid which means that not only does it have the terpene effects of adding to the flavor and the smell, being a cannabinoid means that it also contributes to the psychoactive effects of cannabis.1
This magical chemical compound is the oldest researched terpene due to its many therapeutic properties.2 Because it’s a cannabinoid it binds to CB2 receptors which are located throughout your body (immune system, cardiovascular system, kidneys, eyes, etc)3. Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, pain relief, and balancing glucose levels are only some of the benefits of this compound that researchers have found.
Caryophyllene is another very popular terpene found in many common plants such as black pepper, basil, oregano, and cinnamon. When cannabis strains are caryophyllene dominant, you may experience the funk. That is to say that its peppery, woodsy aroma can give off that strong ‘funky” scent that is often associated with cannabis.
Now, this terpene is dominant in one of my favorite strains: GG4 aka Gorilla Glue aka Original Glue. This strain is a “in the couch, lights off, movie on, snacks at the ready, candles glowing” kind of vibe. In 2014, this strain took home first place in both the L.A. and Michigan Cannabis Cups and it is no surprise as to why. It gives a full body effect and definitely can help with sleepless nights.
Other strains that are Caryophyllene dominant are Cookies and Cream, Sour Diesel, Bubba Kush, and Deathstar.
What are you smoking? What is the dominant terpene in your strain? We’d love to hear all about it.
Resources:
- Steven Cargyle; FirstLabs; “Caryophyllene Terpene: Strains, Effects, Dosage and More”; https://finestlabs.com/caryophyllene-terpene/
- Weedmaps with contributions by Dr. Adie Rae; “Caryophyllene”; 06/02/22;https://weedmaps.com/learn/the-plant/caryophyllene
- Taylor Toomey; SONA; “The Endocannabinoid System: Everything You Need To Know”; 04/01/202; https://sonapharmacy.com/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system/
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