What is BCP (beta-caryophyllene)?
BCP is being hailed as a self-care superpower. Keen to know more? Keep reading to discover more about BCP and its incredible properties.
Is BCP a cannabinoid?
To understand BCP (otherwise known as beta-caryophyllene) it’s essential to get your head around what it isn’t. Firstly, BCP isn’t strictly a cannabinoid, even though it acts a lot like one. Some sources do call BCP a cannabinoid, but in Australia, the TGA has said it's not. This means, unlike other cannabinoids, BCP is easily obtainable and is 100% legal.
However, what’s exciting about BCP is that it binds with the body's CB2 receptors (associated with mood, pain regulation and the immune system). Cannabinoids also bind with CB2 receptors, but they also bind with other receptors in the body, whereas BCP only binds with CB2.
So, it’s freely available, and it’s not strictly a cannabinoid, but it does act a bit like one - what else does this compound do?
While studies are ongoing, research has found beta-caryophyllene (BCP) to contain powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
BCP has been linked to treatments for depression and anxiety, arthritis, heart disease, seizures and more, while a recent study has gone as far as to say that BCP may be a more effective pain reliever than CBD oil. So, while it’s clear that BCP may contain just as many (if not more) health benefits as cannabis oil, what exactly is it?
Where does BCP come from?
Think back to some of your favourite natural scents. Whether it’s the freshness of a pine tree, the bittersweet tang of an orange, or the soothing scent of lavender, these fragrances are all due to an organic compound otherwise known as a ‘terpene’.
Terpenes give various plants their distinctive scents and are thought to have a profound impact on our emotional and physical wellbeing. They’ve been around a while too; terpenes have been traced back as far as the 11th century with the introduction of camphor as pain relief.
There are hundreds of known terpenes. They’re commonly used in aromatherapy treatments, cosmetics, cleaning products, perfumes and even food additives.
Beta-caryophyllene is found in many spices
Beta-caryophyllene, or BCP, is abundant in aromatic plants like basil, oregano, black pepper, rosemary, black caraway, and cinnamon. It’s also abundant in cannabis. In fact, the cannabis plant contains an especially high concentration of BCP which gives it that unmistakable scent. BCP is secreted from the same part of the cannabis plant as THC and CBD, but it’s structurally quite different and thus affects the body differently too.
How does BCP work on the body?
So how exactly does it work? Like certain cannabinoids, BCP interacts with the human endocannabinoid system- a network of neurotransmitters associated with pain relief, sleep and digestion. As a result, BCP is believed to assist in many of the human body’s functions, from inflammation, emotional regulation to pain perception, seizures and more.
As a growing mountain of data shows, BCP’s ability to bind directly to the body’s CB2 receptors (which help to regulate mood, memory, pain, appetite and more) may be the reason it is so effective. The activation of CB2 is said to reduce inflammation, thereby reducing pain from injuries and chronic conditions. Unlike CBD, which works less directly on the body’s endocannabinoid system, using BCP is thought to be a targeted way to tackle inflammation and pain management.
What is copaiba oil?
Copaiba oil is an oil rich in BCP and it's become a popular way to take BCP. Copaiba oil is an essential derived from various species of the Copaiba tree and has been used for centuries as a topical treatment for wounds and various skin conditions. While copaiba oil is high in BCP, it's an essential oil. Essential oils are strong many online medical sources advise against ingesting essential oils at all. If they can be taken orally, they would need to be diluted.
If you want to ingest anything, make sure it's been suitable for consumption.
Reported benefits of BCP
Pain relief is a purported benefit of BCP.
The following are just some of BCP’s reported benefits:
Immunity booster: As research continues to show, BCP may take an active role in managing inflammation and autoimmune conditions thanks to its ability to bind to cB2 receptors. It might also help fight against ulcers and work as a gastro-protectant.
Anxiety and depression: As previously mentioned, evidence is mounting that BCP can have a positive effect on mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders.
Pain relief: Thanks to its capacity to moderate pain and inflammation, some experts suggest that BCP may be more effective and better tolerated than traditional pain medications such as NSAIDS.
Neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease): BCP has been shown to soothe and reduce inflammation in the brain, which is believed to protect against neurodegenerative changes in those with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
Does BCP/BCP oil have any side effects?
Unlike most common pain medications, research on BCP and BCP oil has not revealed any adverse side effects. On the other hand, many commonly prescribed anti-inflammatories are known to have several unpleasant side effects including abdominal pain, nausea and diarrhea. While research is still in its infancy, preliminary data suggests that taken in small doses, side effects are minimal to none.
Can BCP get me high?
No, no psychoactive compounds in beta-caryophyllene or BCP oil.
Where can I get BCP oil?
Right here! We've spent years researching and creating the very best beta-caryophyllene (BCP) oil. Explore the product - and know we're here to answer any questions!
