For those that don’t know, terpenes are like essential oils found in plants. They provide the individual smells and flavours to each plant, but they can also have therapeutic benefits. Cannabis is one plant that tends to have an abundance of different terpenes, as well as a larger concentration of terpenes. This explains the variety of smells and effects we can encounter when presented with different strains.
With the fall season here, it brings many traditional flavors and aromas to the table. Some more common spicy fall scents like pumpkin spice include; Cinnamon, nutmeg or even cloves.
In the cannabis world there is one spicy terpene that pairs nicely with the other fall scents, Caryophyllene.
This terpene is one of the most popular and can be found in a multitude of different cannabis strains. In some strains of cannabis, this terpene may take upwards to 25% of the terpene profile creating a very intense aroma. The smell is described as peppery, woodsy and spicy. Some herbs and spices that share this terpene include basil, oregano, rosemary and hops.
Cannabis Strains with Caryophyllene:
Pink Kush
Gorilla Glue
Critical Orange Punch
OG Kush
White Widow
Caryophyllene and the Endocannabinoid System
Throughout the human body there are two separate endocannabinoid receptors known as CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are found primarily in the central nervous system. CB2 receptors are largely located throughout the body, specifically in our organs like the skin, liver and intestines. Caryophyllene can bind directly with our CB2 receptors when ingested orally, something not many other terpenes can do. For this reason, it has great anti-inflammatory effects.
Some other potential therapeutic benefits include:
- decreased growth of cancer cells
- increase sleep quality
- diabetes management
- anxiety
Not only is caryophyllene used medicinally, but it can also be used as a flavour enhancer for spicy and citrusy dishes. Usually, it is combined with other spices like cinnamon or pepper to boost flavours. Also, because of its preservative properties, some alcohols that use hops may include caryophyllene.
Next time you have a sip of your favourite IPA or a puff of Pink Kush and taste that spicy flavour, it could be caryophyllene.
Written By: Kyle Popkie, CTE.
CHC Pembroke, ON.