α-Caryophyllene

α-Caryophyllene is also called α-humulene; it is a principal constituent of hops and cananga oils.

Antioxidant activity. The compound protects astrocytes from hydrogen peroxide death in vitro.

Anticancer activity. α-Caryophyllene significantly induced glutathione S-transferase in mouse liver and small intestine. Weak but consistent activity against human solid tumor cell lines. The compound depletes glutathione and increases ROS in tumor cells.

Direct toxicity data are limited but the simple sesquiterpene structure does not raise safety flags.

α-Caryophyllene and β-caryophyllene are sister sesquiterpenes that often co-occur. Their dual activity, protecting healthy cells while damaging tumor cells, is an active research topic.