Caryophyllene (β-caryophyllene)

A peppery sesquiterpene that uniquely binds CB2 receptors directly — the only common terpene that interacts with the endocannabinoid system as a receptor agonist.

Why it matters

Beta-caryophyllene is the spicy note in black pepper and a major terpene in many cannabis cultivars. It is unusual among terpenes because it functions as a CB2 receptor agonist, which means it directly engages the immune-side branch of the endocannabinoid system. This has driven research interest in caryophyllene for inflammatory and neuropathic pain.

In practice

Caryophyllene-dominant cultivars are often described as relaxing without being heavy. The compound is also one of the more thermally stable terpenes, so it survives vaping and combustion better than the lighter monoterpenes.

Common confusion

“Terpenes don’t bind cannabinoid receptors” is wrong specifically because of caryophyllene.

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