By this time, most cannabis consumers are now familiar with the compounds that make up a strain. There are many compounds and chemical components that make cannabis strain its characteristics. Cannabis is being used and enjoyed because of its unique characteristics. You may be familiar already with THC, CBD, as well as important terpenes.
Terpenes are important chemical components because they provide the cannabis plant to have a distinct aroma. There are many kinds of terpenes, among which are myrcene and caryophyllene.
Yes, caryophyllene is an important terpene but is often overshadowed by another terpene called myrcene. This terpene is present in most cannabis plants, and it brings about the aroma of herbs and spices.
What is Caryophyllene?
Caryophyllene is a terpene that is common to most cannabis plants. This one of the most abundant terpene. It provides a wide array of fragrance that is mostly a reminisce of musk, citrus, and earthy notes. It is present in many herbs and spices like basil, black pepper, and oregano, among others.
In cannabis, the caryophyllene can be found in strains that are spicy and peppery. This terpene falls under the Food and Drug Administration’s classification of “generally recognized as safe” thus, it can be consumed in large dosages.
Caryophyllene has been a subject of many medical types of research, and it gained the attention of many researchers as it was found out to be one of the first non-cannabinoids to have a direct effect or activate cannabinoid receptors. Cannabis strains that are rich in caryophyllene have therapeutic effects because of the reaction of caryophyllene in the body system.
What are the benefits of Caryophyllene?
According to medical studies, the caryophyllene terpene has numerous therapeutic benefits. A study in 2014 showed that this terpene has pain-relieving properties, and it lowers alcohol intake, which means that it can help in the treatment of addiction.
Terpenes work with the CB2 receptors, which are found in the immune tissues all over the body. When CB2 receptors are activated, it can reduce inflammation and lessens any pain. Note that CB1 and CB2 receptors are major receptors of the endocannabinoid system. The CB1 receptor is common on the brain while the CB2 is activated by caryophyllene and is found in many parts of the body. According to many studies, the benefits of caryophyllene include:
- It is effective in pain management. Studies conducted showed a result that caryophyllene could manage pain and provide relief to those who are suffering. With mice as the subject, scientists injected the subject with caryophyllene, and the result showed that the subjects less pain compared to those who are in a controlled solution. This terpene also enhances the pain-reducing strength of low-dose morphine.
- It is effective against inflammation – The body is subjected to several inflammatory diseases that can affect the digestive tract. One example is colitis, which is the inflammation of the intestine and causes abdominal cramping, pain, diarrhea. When CB2 receptors are activated by this terpene, it plays an essential role in reducing the pain. Other inflammation in the body is brain inflammation, and caryophyllene plays an important part in reducing inflammation.
Cannabis strains that are rich in Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene rich cannabis strains are known to have a musky and spicy smell and flavor. Some also have funky profiles. There are a number of popular strains that are known to be rich in Caryophyllene.
- Girl Scout Cookies – This strain is the combination of Durban Poison and OG Kush, and they grow large, and they originated in California. The GSC has a sweet and earthy aroma. This strain can bring about a strong mental high and also full relaxation. This strain is a multi-awarded strain winning numerous awards for its high THC content and amazing effects. Among the many benefits of GSC is that it can effectively deal with pain, appetite loss, and anxiety.
- Bubba Kush – this Indica dominant strain is known for its sedative effects. It is best known for its tranquilizing effects. It tastes sweet, hash with chocolate and coffee undertones. As it delights the taste buds, it will also treat your body with a powerful relaxation.
- Sour Diesel – Sour D has a strong, pungent aroma that is a reminisce of diesel and fuel. This strain can hit you fast and hard, and it can bring about a dreamy high that can uplift the mood. It is against depression and anxiety. Sour diesel is an essential strain in the cannabis medical community.
- Chemdog – this strain is the offspring of OG Kush and Sour Diesel. It has a distinct fuel-like aroma. The aroma is strong that it can fill up a room as soon as you open the jar. Chemdog is very potent and is not recommended for beginner cannabis smokers.
- Candyland – this award-winning strain won the KushCon Cup in 2012. This strain is the combination of Granddaddy Purple and Bay Platinum Cookies. Candyland is pleasing to look at with its golden hairs, and it does a very good job of managing pains.
- Death Star – this strain has a high THC content, which makes it a potent hybrid. It is a cross between Sour Diesel and Sensi Skunk. Death Star can bring about a strong euphoric high, followed by a relaxing feeling. This perfect for late afternoons or nighttime use.
- Original Glue (GG4) – this is a very potent hybrid that can deliver a strong euphoric and relax high. This strain placed 1st during the Times Jamaican World Cup and 2014 Cannabis Cups. This strain is a product of a unique three-way cross between Sour Dubb, Chocolate Diesel, and Chem’s Sister. It has a strong aroma of pungent and sour diesel, which can fill up the room.
The above-mentioned strains are just a few of caryophyllene rich cannabis that can bring about amazing high and has numerous medical benefits. Caryophyllene is indeed one important terpene that can be found in a cannabis plant. Though existing studies are subjecting to the benefits of caryophyllene, medical researchers are exploring more on the wonders of this terpene. No doubt, we expect more breakthroughs that involve caryophyllene and its benefits to the body system.
