Caryophyllene

PhytochemicalSesquiterpeneBest with a meal

What is it

Beta-caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene found in many essential oils, especially black pepper, cloves, hops, rosemary, and cannabis. It is the major terpene in many spices and is unique among plant terpenes for directly activating the CB2 cannabinoid receptor.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Anti-inflammatory / pain (preclinical)

Mixed Evidence

Strong preclinical evidence for anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects via CB2 receptor activation. Human clinical trials are limited and small.

How it works

Beta-caryophyllene binds selectively to the CB2 cannabinoid receptor, which is expressed mainly on immune cells. Unlike THC, it does not bind to CB1 receptors and does not produce psychoactive effects. CB2 activation can dampen inflammatory cytokine release and modulate immune responses. Preclinical studies show anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective activity. Human clinical trials are still limited, with most evidence coming from animal models or small pilot studies in pain, anxiety, and inflammatory conditions.

Dosage

No standardized human dose. Studies have used roughly 10-200 mg/day in oral form. Concentrations in essential oils vary widely - black pepper essential oil can be 30-40% beta-caryophyllene.

When and how to take it

Oral supplements typically taken with food, once or twice daily. Culinary use as part of spices and herbs is the safest and most established source.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Beta-caryophyllene oil / capsules

Concentrated supplement form.

Lipophilic; absorption improved with dietary fat.

Whole essential oil (e.g., copaiba, black pepper, clove)

Used in aromatherapy.

Variable beta-caryophyllene content; should not be ingested without specialist guidance.

Safety

Generally well tolerated at culinary doses and in studied supplement amounts. Side effects can include mild gastrointestinal upset. High-dose essential oil use can cause skin and mucous membrane irritation.

Who should be cautious

Avoid concentrated supplements in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited safety data. People on immunosuppressants should consult a clinician. Concentrated essential oils should never be ingested without specialist guidance.

Interactions

May interact with drug metabolism via CYP3A4 modulation. Theoretical interactions with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory medications.

Food sources

Black pepper

Amount
1 tsp ground
%DV
—

Cloves

Amount
1 tsp ground
%DV
—

Cinnamon

Amount
1 tsp ground
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Will beta-caryophyllene make me high?⌄

No. It binds to the CB2 receptor, which doesn't produce psychoactive effects. THC binds to the CB1 receptor, which is responsible for the 'high' from cannabis.

Can I get enough beta-caryophyllene from food?⌄

Spices like black pepper and cloves are concentrated sources. Regular culinary use provides modest amounts, though typical 'pharmacological' doses in studies are higher than what food typically provides.

References

Caryophyllene on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Caryophyllene (ChEBI:10357) — ChEBI link

Caryophyllene (PubChem CID 5281515) — PubChem link

Caryophyllene on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Caryophyllene (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.