Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Beta-caryophyllene (BCP) is a natural bicyclic sesquiterpene found in essential oils of numerous plants, including black pepper, cloves, and cannabis. Its potential use for supporting or treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is based mainly on its pharmacological action as a selective agonist of the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2). Scientific studies, primarily in animals, indicate that activation of CB2 receptors modulates inflammation and pain—key elements in IBS pathophysiology. Several preclinical studies have demonstrated that BCP can reduce colonic inflammation, visceral pain, and hypermotility in rodent models of colitis and chemically induced gut irritation. For instance, BCP has been shown to decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers in animal intestines, and to reduce abdominal pain sensitivity, which is relevant to IBS symptoms.

However, human clinical data are lacking as of 2024. There are no published randomized controlled trials directly evaluating BCP in IBS patients. The evidence is extrapolated from animal studies and from BCP's recognized safety profile in humans as a dietary component. Thus, the scientific foundation for BCP use in IBS is preliminary, and larger, rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety in this specific context.

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