By Luke Sumpter


Have you ever detected spicy, peppery, or woody notes when smoking weed? Well, you have beta-caryophyllene to thank for that pleasant experience. Both a terpene and a cannabinoid, this molecule ranks as one of the most fascinating chemicals in the cannabis plant. Learn everything you need to know about it below.

Introducing Beta-Caryophyllene

Even if you’ve never heard of beta-caryophyllene, chances are you’ve inhaled this molecule more times than you can count. As one of the most dominant terpenes found across all cannabis strains, beta-caryophyllene impacts both the flavor and effects of many different cultivars.

Emerging studies demonstrate its promising therapeutic potential, and research shows it acts simultaneously as a cannabinoid and a terpene.

  • Beta-Caryophyllene as a Dietary Cannabinoid

Way back in 2009, researcher Jürg Gertsch and colleagues published a paper[1] titled “Beta-caryophyllene is a dietary cannabinoid”. The findings presented in this publication set beta-caryophyllene aside from many other terpenes by placing it in the chemical category of cannabinoids—alongside THC and CBD. By directly binding to the CB2 receptor of the endocannabinoid system, a body-wide network tasked with maintaining biological balance, beta-caryophyllene can potentially impact the immune system, liver, bones, heart, and brain. The “dietary” component of this molecule’s title stems from the fact that most of us ingest beta-caryophyllene on a routine basis owing to its presence in common herbs and spices such as rosemary, cloves, black pepper, oregano, basil, and cinnamon.

Beta-Caryophyllene Terpene

The Chemistry of Beta-Caryophyllene

If you know anything about terpenes, you’ll understand that large structural differences set many of these molecules apart. All of them are based on isoprene units—five-carbon molecules that form the building blocks of different terpenes. Small monoterpenes such as pinene and myrcene are composed of two isoprene units, meaning they possess a total of 10 carbon atoms. In contrast, beta-caryophyllene belongs to a group called sesquiterpenes that possess three isoprene units and a total of 15 carbon atoms.

As a bicyclic sesquiterpene, beta-caryophyllene has a unique molecular structure that features two ring systems. The first nine-membered ring forms the backbone of the molecule. The second four-membered ring, a relatively rare cyclobutane ring, fuses to the larger backbone and gives the molecule the unique structure that allows it to work as both a terpene and a cannabinoid.

  • Aromas and Flavor of Beta-Caryophyllene

While beta-caryophyllene occurs in most cannabis strains, some varieties possess much higher concentrations of the terpene. Caryophyllene in cannabis provides a warm and spicy aroma with notes of sweetness and wood. The flavor of these buds is clove-like, with hints of spice and pepper. This cannabis terpene is present in plenty of plants, such as:

  • Rosemary
  • Lupulus
  • Basil
  • Clove oil

  • Effects Associated with Beta-Caryophyllene in Cannabis

The caryophyllene terpene not only contributes to the flavors and aromas of certain strains, but it directly impacts their effects. Users subjectively describe beta-caryophyllene effects as soothing and relaxing.

Beta-Caryophyllene Aroma & Effects

Beta-Caryophyllene: A Look at the Research

Cannabis science remains in the early stages, and very few human trials exist that demonstrate the effectiveness of specific cannabinoids and terpenes in humans. However, the research surrounding beta-caryophyllene is indeed progressing. While we can’t make any solid conclusions on its therapeutic effects, it’s interesting to see what researchers have discovered so far. Find out more below.

  • The Entourage Effect

The entourage effect posits that certain cannabis constituents are more effective when administered together compared to when given in isolation. Based on this thinking, many cannabis users prefer full-spectrum extracts and whole flowers because of the wealth of phytochemicals they contain. A 2024 cell study[2] conducted at the University of Florence, Italy, found that a combination of beta-caryophyllene and CBD demonstrated superior anti-inflammatory effects than either molecule administered separately.

  • Chronic Pain

An increasing amount of studies are testing cannabis phytochemicals on cell and animal models of pain. A 2023 study[3] conducted at the University of Arizona administered several terpenes in a mouse model of neuropathic pain, including beta-caryophyllene. The researchers concluded, “Overall, our observations support the translational utility of terpenes as potential treatments for neuropathic pain..”.

  • Fatty Liver Disease

The most common cause of chronic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), affects around 32%[4] of the world’s adult population. While no specific medication is used to treat the condition, some researchers are focusing on terpenes as a therapeutic aid. After applying beta-caryophyllene to a cell model of the disease, researchers from the University of Turin, Italy, concluded[5]: “Taken together, our results suggest that BCP [beta-caryophyllene] is a promising molecule for the treatment of NAFLD.”

  • Addiction

Beta-caryophyllene effects also show promise in the future of addiction treatment. Animal studies have tested the terpene in addiction models against drugs such as cocaine, nicotine, alcohol, and methamphetamine. The authors of a review[6] regarding the effects of the molecule on drug addiction concluded: “Preclinical studies have reported promising results with BCP in animal models of substance disorders. Further research, including studies in humans, are warranted to establish its therapeutic potential and its mechanisms of action.”

A-Pinene

Anti-inflamatory
Bronchodilator
Aids Memory
Anti-bacterial

Also found in pine needles


A-Pinene

Linalool

Anesthetic
Anti-convulsant
Analgesic
Anti-anxiety

Also found in lavander

Linalool

Beta-Caryophillene

Anti-inflamatory
Analgesic
Protects Cells Lining the Digestive Tract

Also found in black pepper

Beta-Caryophyllene

Myrcene

Contributes to Sedative Effect of Strong Indicas
Sleep Aid
Muscle Relaxant

Also found in hops

Myrcene

Limonene

Treats Acid Reflux
Anti-anxiety
Antidepressant

Also found in citrus

Limonene
 

Beta-Caryophyllene: A Fascinating Cannabis Phytochemical

Beta-caryophyllene stands as one of the most unique phytochemicals found in cannabis flowers. The molecule acts as an aromatic terpene, contributing pleasant notes of spice, pepper, and wood. Moreover, as a dietary cannabinoid, it interacts with the human endocannabinoid system, affecting a wide range of physiological processes. Early research suggests that the compound synergises with CBD and that it could play a future therapeutic role in areas such as drug addiction, liver disease, and chronic pain. Hopefully, as the research barriers surrounding cannabis start to fall, we’ll see more studies that shine a light on the complex entourage effect surrounding beta-caryophyllene, cannabinoids, and other terpenes.

External Resources:
  1. Beta-caryophyllene is a dietary cannabinoid https://www.pnas.org
  2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol and Beta-Caryophyllene https://www.mdpi.com
  3. Cannabis sativa Induce Antinociception in Mouse Chronic Neuropathic Pain https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. Global incidence and prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease - PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. Beta-Caryophyllene Modifies Intracellular Lipid Composition https://iris.unito.it
  6. Effects of β -caryophyllene, A Dietary Cannabinoid https://www.ingentaconnect.com
Disclaimer:
This content is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources.

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Privacy Policy - Royal Queen Seeds

To ensure a safe online environment and guarantee adequate data protection, we strictly comply with all legal requirements. In this privacy statement, we provide information about how and for what purpose data is collected, safety measures, storage periods and contact details.


COMPANY NAME: SNORKEL SPAIN, SL (hereinafter ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS)

C/ Vilar d'Abdelà, 5 (nave 1) CP: 08170 de Montornès del Vallès

+34 937 379 846

support@royalqueenseeds.com


The present Privacy Policy sets out the terms on which we will treat personal data at ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS; this includes any personal data collected through our website https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/ as well as any other data we process in the course of our business activities.

ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS collects the following personal data for the purposes listed below:

SECTION 1 – PERSONAL INFORMATION WE COLLECT

1.1 Account purchases

Account purchases can only be made if you are in possession of a personal account. When you create an account or purchase something from our shop, as part of the buying and selling process we collect the following personal information that you provide to us:

This information is required for delivery. In addition, when you browse our shop, we automatically receive the Internet Protocol (IP) address of your computer. Based on this information, we can optimise your online experience and at the same time protect our online environment.

Purpose of data collection

We collect and store account-related data for the following purposes:

(a) to carry out obligations arising from any contracts between you and us, and to provide you with information, products and services that you may request from us;

(b) to set up, manage and communicate with you about your account and your orders;

(c) to conduct market research and analysis;

(d) to confirm your age and identity, and to detect and prevent fraud.

1.2 Newsletters

With your explicit permission, we may send you newsletters about our shop, new products and other updates. We send newsletters based on your explicit consent. In the event that you purchase a product, and in accordance with current regulations, we may send you commercial communications in accordance with the legitimate interest of our company, always about products or services similar to those you have purchased or contracted. In any case, you may exercise your right of opposition through the channels announced in this Privacy Policy. The following information is collected in relation to the newsletter:

We do not need to know the sex of the person in order to send the newsletter (data minimisation: by law we must ask for data that is strictly necessary to provide the service, and in this case knowing the sex is not necessary to send the newsletter).

Purpose of data collection

The data collected is used to:

(a) personalise our emails, including your name and gender;

(b) provide gender-specific content.

You can withdraw your consent at any time by using the link provided in the newsletter or the contact information provided in section 2.

1.3 Customer service and contact form

In order to provide appropriate support, our customer service employees have access to information related to the account. Consequently, their support will be highly effective and friendly. The data provided in our contact form is used by our CRM provider, SuperOffice. We will only use your details to respond to your message.

SECTION 2 – LEGITIMATE INTEREST

If you have purchased any of our products, please note that we may process your personal data for promotional purposes, based on Royal Queen Seeds' legitimate interest only to offer you products or services from our company and about products or services similar to those you have purchased. You may exercise your right to opt out of future messages by the means set out in this Privacy Policy or through any notification you receive.

2.1 How do you withdraw consent?

If you change your mind, you can withdraw your consent for us to contact you for the purpose of collecting, using, or disclosing your data at any time by reaching out to us at: support@royalqueenseeds.com.

SECTION 3 – DISCLOSURE

We may disclose your personal information if we are required to do so by law or if you breach our Terms of Service.

SECTION 4 – HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR DATA?

At Royal Queen Seeds, we will not retain your data for longer than is necessary for the purposes described in this Policy. Different retention periods apply for different types of data; however, the longest period we will normally hold any personal data is 10 years.

4.1 Account information

Data relating to the account remains relevant for as long as the consumer is in possession of an account. Therefore, the data remains documented for as long as the account exists. When our customers delete an account, the associated data will be deleted within a reasonable period of time. Requests regarding the inspection or correction of stored personal data or the deletion of an account can be sent to support@royalqueenseeds.com.

4.2 Newsletters

In the event that you give us your consent to inform you about our products or services, we will keep your data until you express your wish not to receive any further communications from us. However, we regularly (every month) carry out a relevance check. Registered customers (and their personal information) will be deleted whenever customers do not reply to our request. In addition, our newsletter mailing has an opt-out feature. Consumers can withdraw their consent by using this opt-out feature.

SECTION 5 – COOKIES

Cookies are small information files that notify your computer of previous interactions with our website. These cookies are stored on your hard drive, not on our website. Essentially, when you use our website, your computer displays its cookies to us, informing our site that you have visited before. This allows our website to function more quickly and remember aspects related to your previous visits (such as your username), making your experience more convenient. At Royal Queen Seeds, we use two types of cookies: functional and analytical.

5.1 Functional Cookies

Functional cookies are used to enhance your online experience. Among other things, these cookies track what is added to your shopping cart. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

5.2 Analytical Cookies

Analytical cookies are used for research and market analysis. The data collected with these analytical cookies is anonymous, making it unusable for third parties. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

SECTION 5 – THIRD-PARTY SERVICES

Third-party services are required to conduct transactions and provide our services. In general, the third-party providers we use will only collect, use and disclose your information to the extent necessary to enable them to perform the services they provide to us.

However, certain third-party service providers, such as payment gateways and other payment transaction processors, have their own privacy policies regarding the information we must provide to them for your transactions.

We encourage you to read the privacy policies of these providers so that you can understand how these providers will handle your personal information.

In particular, certain suppliers may be located or have facilities located in a different jurisdiction than yours or ours. Therefore, if you choose to proceed with a transaction involving the services of a third party, your information may be subject to the laws of the jurisdiction in which that service provider or its facilities are located.

Once you leave our website or are redirected to a third-party website or application, you are no longer governed by this Privacy Policy or the Terms of Service of our website.

Web analytics service (anonymous data)

On this website we have integrated an element of a web analytics service (with anonymisation functionality). Web analytics can be defined as the gathering, processing and analysis of data about the behaviour of visitors to websites. An analytics service collects, among other things, data about which website a person came from (the so-called referrer), which sub-pages they visited or how often and for how long they visited a sub-page. Web analytics is mainly used for website optimisation and for a cost–benefit analysis of internet advertising.

Courier service

To complete deliveries we use a courier service. This courier service carries out the delivery between our company and the consumer's home. To complete these logistics, the company requires access to the consumer's name and address information.

Mailing service

Royal Queen Seeds uses a third-party mail service provider to send its newsletter. This provider has access to limited account information related to opt-in consent (e.g. email address).

Marketing services

Royal Queen Seeds has the support of a company that specialises in marketing and communication activities. Their access to personal information is very limited and mostly anonymous.

Payment services

At Royal Queen Seeds we use external payment services to handle our transactions (e.g. credit card payments).

SECTION 6 – SECURITY

To protect your personal information, we take reasonable precautions and follow industry standard best practices to ensure that it is not inappropriately lost, misused, accessed, disclosed, altered or destroyed.

If you provide us with your credit card information, the information is encrypted using secure socket layer technology (SSL) and stored using AES-256 encryption. Although no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, we follow all PCI-DSS requirements and implement additional industry standards that are commonly accepted. Information related to the account is protected with a hashing method. This method transforms the information into a generated hash. As a result, confidential information is protected and invisible, even to us. In addition, our databases are exceptionally protected against unauthorised access. For example, access to the database is only possible and permitted via approved IP addresses (e.g. from Royal Queen Seeds headquarters). Other attempts and addresses are rejected at all times.

Furthermore, data is anonymised as much as possible, so it cannot be directly linked to a specific consumer. With this data, however, we may be able to carry out market research and analysis. In addition, the third parties concerned (e.g. mailing service) are examined prior to our collaboration, comply with the GDPR from the EU and receive a processing agreement. Within Royal Queen Seeds, employees are assigned different access permissions. Specific permission provides access only to information that is strictly required to perform a task. Digital security measures are subject to change and must meet high requirements to ensure the safety of online customers. That is why, at Royal Queen Seeds, we appoint a security officer. Regular verification and improvement of security measures (where necessary) are part of the role.

SECTION 7 – CHANGES TO THIS PRIVACY POLICY

We reserve the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time, so please check back regularly. Changes and clarifications will be effective immediately upon being published on the Website. If we make substantial changes to this policy, we will notify you here that it has been updated so you will know what information we collect, how we use it and under what circumstances, if any, we use and/or disclose it.

SECTION 8 – YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO: