Beta-caryophyllene

Beta-caryophyllene is a peppery, woody terpene in black pepper, cloves, and hemp that can bind the CB2 cannabinoid receptor.

Most terpenes act only on smell and taste, but beta-caryophyllene is unusual because it fits the CB2 receptor, a part of the endocannabinoid system found largely in immune tissue. For that reason it is sometimes described as a dietary cannabinoid, even though it is chemically a sesquiterpene rather than a cannabinoid. It is a common entry on hemp terpene panels and is also an approved food flavoring.

Its receptor activity is mechanistically interesting but does not make it equivalent to CBD, which works through different and less direct pathways. Its effects have been studied mostly in cell and animal models, and clinical research in humans remains early. The compound appears in many plants pets encounter, but any question about an animal and hemp ingredients belongs with a veterinarian.