Beta-caryophyllene is the terpene that gives black pepper its spicy bite. It is also found in cloves, cinnamon, oregano and rosemary, and it is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis. Strains with a peppery, spicy, woody or "gassy" edge often carry a good amount of it.
Caryophyllene stands out from other terpenes because research has shown it can bind to CB2 receptors, which are part of the body's endocannabinoid system. That makes it a bit of a crossover between a terpene and a cannabinoid-like compound. CB2 receptors are mostly found outside the brain, and caryophyllene does not produce a high.
You will see lots of claims online about what caryophyllene does. Research in people is still limited, and we do not make health claims. Think of it as a flavor and aroma marker that helps you compare products.
Caryophyllene is a little more stable than lighter terpenes like myrcene and limonene, so it tends to hang around in cured flower. On a terpene panel it may be listed as beta-caryophyllene or simply caryophyllene. It often appears alongside humulene, a woody, hoppy terpene.
If you like spicy, peppery strains, look for caryophyllene near the top of the list.