Beta-Caryophyllene: A Review of Current Research

Abstract

The United States spends the majority of health care dollars on chronic diseases, which often lead to poor quality of life. Conventional medical treatments and medications may provide benefit, but without a root-cause treatment approach, outcomes remain less than ideal. One active area of research in the prevention and treatment of chronic disease is exploring various phytocannabinoids, which regulate the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex endogenous signaling system comprising endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and degrading enzymes. The cannabinoid receptors are regulated by endocannabinoids, but can also be manipulated by outside influences, such as phytocannabinoids. Although research into the most well-known phytocannabinoids is indeed promising, less well-known plant chemicals may also exert profound effects on the ECS potentially impacting a myriad of chronic diseases. The aim of this review is to describe the current research surrounding the bicyclic sesquiterpene β-caryophyllene in the areas of neurodegenerative disorders, chronic pain, mental health disorders, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Although early animal research indicates a possible benefit, the need for clinical efficacy and safety in humans requires future trials.