What is beta-caryophyllene and what does it do?

Beta-caryophyllene (BCP) is a sesquiterpene found in cannabis, black pepper, cloves, and hops. It is unique among terpenes because it is a selective CB2 receptor agonist — making it technically a dietary cannabinoid. This CB2 agonism gives BCP anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and potentially neuroprotective properties without psychoactivity (CB2 receptors are primarily peripheral and immune-related, not central). Preclinical evidence: BCP reduces inflammatory pain in mouse models, protects against neuroinflammation, and shows anti-anxiety effects. A 2014 study found BCP reduced alcohol intake in mice by 50% via CB2 activation. Human evidence: limited to observational data and one small clinical study showing BCP-rich cannabis strains reduced anxiety more than BCP-poor strains. BCP is GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the FDA as a food flavoring.