“β-caryophyllene, a bicyclic sesquiterpene widely abundant in various plant essential oils, has garnered growing attention for its potential biological effects and therapeutic benefits in liver diseases. This review systematically evaluates preclinical evidence on the pharmacological properties of BCP with emphasis on its hepatoprotective effects primarily through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifibrotic, and immunomodulatory actions.
BCP is classified as a dietary cannabinoid due to its ability to activate cannabinoid type 2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system and thereby influence key cellular signaling pathways involved in lipid metabolism and tissue remodeling. Emerging studies also highlight BCP interaction with PPAR nuclear receptor and AMPK signaling, further corroborating its role in regulating lipid homeostasis.
In the present review, we compile, summarize, and critically analyze findings from in vitro and in vivo studies on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, recently termed as metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), alcoholic liver disease, and liver fibrosis, highlighting the pharmacological and molecular mechanisms underlying therapeutic effects. These studies consistently demonstrate a reduction in hepatic steatosis, collagen deposition, and hepatocellular markers reflecting a broad spectrum of hepatoprotective effects.
Taken together, the pharmacological properties and mechanistic insights place BCP as a promising natural compound with nutraceutical, phytopharmaceutical, or dietary supplement applications for liver diseases. Despite the robust preclinical evidence, clinical validation remains scarce. Therefore, regulatory toxicology and efficacy studies are needed to establish the therapeutic potential of BCP in liver diseases and its integration as a nutraceutical or phytopharmaceutical in the clinical usage.”
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41489519
“BCP is one of the important constituents in Cannabis with an abundance of 35%. In addition to its presence in Cannabis, BCP is largely present in numerous edible plants.”
“In conclusion, BCP represents a promising therapeutic avenue for managing liver diseases due to its ability to modulate multiple interrelated molecular and cellular pathways.”
“With continued research, BCP has the potential to evolve from a natural product with hepatoprotective properties to an effective adjunct or alternative in liver disease therapy, offering new hope for patients and advancing the field of liver health management.”
https://faseb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1096/fj.202502436R