Whether you’re someone who is brand new to cannabis or you’ve been enjoying flower for years, it can sometimes feel like there’s always something new to learn about a favorite strain or just this remarkable plant in general. Somewhere in the long list of interesting things about cannabis are terpenes, the organic compound that gives every strain a unique aromatic profile and perhaps even influence our purchase preferences at the dispensary.
If you prefer cannabis strains that err on the side of funky, you may unknowingly lean more towards strains that contain caryophyllene terpenes. Read on to discover more about caryophyllene and find out the various ways it shows up in popular cannabis strains on the market.
What Is Caryophyllene?
Caryophyllene (Cr) is one of the more unique cannabis terpenes out there. For one, it is a sesquiterpene, meaning it contains three isoprene units unlike limonene and other monoterpenes that only contain two. The molecular structure is big, much bigger than other common terpenes found in cannabis and its size and structural components give it some special abilities in terms of the way it reacts in the body.
While terpenes commonly interact with the central nervous system, caryophyllene’s structure gives it the ability to bind with the CB2 receptor in the endocannabinoid system which helps to regulate inflammation in peripheral organs like the eyes, stomach, muscles, and glands. This interaction with the endocannabinoid system means caryophyllene terpenes are the only terpene with the ability to react in the body like a cannabinoid, like THC.
Caryophyllene Uses in Everyday Products
As a dietary cannabinoid, caryophyllene is found in spices like black pepper, basil, and oregano and plants like hops, rosemary, some sage bushes, and even fungi. People who cook with a lot of spices like cinnamon and pepper may have more exposure to caryophyllene terpenes than those who don’t, but this terpene also shows up as an agent for preserving and stabilizing beer.
In addition to food, caryophyllene is also used in some detergents or as a supplemental flavoring agent to enhance citrus flavors, in which case, caryophyllene terpenes find their way into chewing gum. Clove essential oil has also garnered a reputation for the ability to numb pain when applied topically, so these terpenes show up in some topical treatments as well.
Where Is Caryophyllene Found in Cannabis?
Beta-Caryophyllene is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis, but caryophyllene-dominant strains bring their own unique benefits to the spectrum of cannabis effects. As we mentioned, caryophyllene terpenes react with the body’s endocannabinoid system, specifically the CB2 receptors that regulate inflammation in peripheral organs. Thanks to this ability to trigger the CB2 receptor, and the synergistic effects with the body’s compounds, caryophyllene-dominant strains tend to produce a very pleasant, relaxing body high that also has some therapeutic pain-relieving abilities as well.
Many experts familiar with this terpene claim that the caryophyllene odor and taste make caryophyllene-dominant strains great for making cannabis cooking oil and infusing with herb butter. The peppery, herbaceous flavors will stand up beautifully to savory dishes while providing an after-dinner “body buzz” perfect for relaxing and winding down at the end of the night.
In terms of appearance and smell, caryophyllene strains have aromas of cloves and spice with woody notes and produce a slightly pepper odor and taste when burned. Many people also characterize these strains as having notes of funk even diesel-like and musky. If you love smoking or cooking with pungent strains that contain caryophyllene, use Cannabolish Odor Removing Spray to remove odor before, after, or during your next sessions. The fresh essence from citrus and pine essential oils will work to naturally absorb the aromatic spice of those caryophyllene-dominant strains like Gelato and Death Star, to name a few.
Which Strains Are Caryophyllene-Dominant?
As we mentioned, caryophyllene odor is often characterized as funky and peppery. But everyone reacts differently to terpenes due to body chemistry, so it may not be reliable to go based solely off of smell the next time you’re looking for caryophyllene strains in the dispensary.
If you’re on the hunt for cannabis with caryophyllene, look out for strains that are derived from the Cookies family. GSC, Cookies and Cream, and Moon Cookies are all predominantly caryophyllene with some tertiary terpenes like myrcene and linalool. You’ll immediately notice the earthy, floral, musky notes when you enjoy these strains for the first time and enjoy a deep, euphoric body high from the cannabinol effects. Here are some other great caryophyllene-dominant strains you can check out at a local dispensary:
- 2010 Girl Scout Cookies
- Bubba Kush
- Chemdog
- Cookies and Cream
- Death Star
- Deadhead OG
- Fire OG
- Gelato
- GSC
- Moon Cookies
- Original Glue
While consuming caryophyllene at low levels in cannabis has been shown to have some health benefits, it’s important to keep in mind that essential oils tend to have a higher concentration of chemicals and could cause negative side effects. Make sure to consult a doctor before using an essential oil for aromatherapy or topical purposes. And of course consult a budtender at your local dispensary if you want to hear more about caryophyllene-dominant strains.
Why Is Cannabolish So Effective Against Cannabis Odor?
Learning about terpenes is a fantastic way to branch out and try different strains for the first time, but they’re also the primary source of the unique stink of cannabis. Once you’ve found some of your favorite strains, you can keep odors at bay safely and effectively with Cannabolish.
We developed Cannabolish Odor Removing Sprays and Candles with the power of plant oils and natural ingredients to fight odors from cannabis before, after, and even during your next session. Simply open a container of Odor Removing Gel or set a Weed Odor Absorbing Candle in a discrete location in the room and allow the fresh essence to get rid of odors from your favorite, limonene-dominant strains.
Spray Cannabolish in closets and on fabrics to eliminate cannabis odor locked in garment fibers, or take Cannabolish on the go to eliminate odors in your car. Cannabolish is versatile, discrete, and effective against the odor profile of every strain.
Keep Reading:
Best Terpene for Focused-Related Activities
Terpene Guide: What is Myrcene?
Terpene Guide: What is Terpinolene?
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