Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is a natural bicyclic sesquiterpene that is a constituent of many essential oils, especially clove oil, the oil from the stems and flowers of Syzygium aromaticum (cloves), the essential oil of hemp Cannabis sativa, rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis, and hops. It is usually found as a mixture with isocaryophyllene (the cis double bond isomer) and α-humulene (obsolete name: α-caryophyllene), a ring-opened isomer. Caryophyllene is notable for having a cyclobutane ring, as well as a trans-double bond in a 9-membered ring, both rarities in nature.

Chemical properties[edit | edit source]

Caryophyllene is one of the chemical compounds that contributes to the spiciness of black pepper. β-Caryophyllene was shown to be selective agonist of peripheral cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) and to exert significant cannabimimetic behavioral effects in mice. Antinociceptive, neuroprotective, anxiolytic and antidepressant and anti-inflammatory effects have been uncovered.

Uses[edit | edit source]

β-Caryophyllene is used in many applications such as chewing gum when combined with spicy and citrus flavors. Caryophyllene is a potential therapeutic agent in CB2 receptor-mediated diseases.

References[edit | edit source]

Caryophyllene Resources
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