CONDITION
Cannabinoids such as CBD and CBG, and the terpene beta-caryophyllene, show anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory and animal studies, partly through the CB2 receptor, but human evidence is still limited. Anti-inflammatory activity underlies much of the interest in cannabis for pain, arthritis and skin, but most of the evidence is still preclinical. It is a promising area, not a proven treatment.
What the research says
Several cannabinoids (including CBD and CBG) and the terpene beta-caryophyllene show anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory and animal studies, partly through the CB2 receptor and other pathways. Translating this into proven human treatments for specific inflammatory diseases is still largely work in progress.
Why the CB2 receptor matters
The endocannabinoid system’s CB2 receptor is heavily involved in immune and inflammatory responses, which is the mechanistic reason cannabinoids are studied for inflammation. Beta-caryophyllene is notable for binding it directly.
At a glance
What to be careful about
Inflammation is a symptom of many different conditions, some serious. Cannabis is not an established anti-inflammatory medicine, and persistent inflammation should be investigated properly.