68.0
ISS Score
Moderate — Score based on regulatory approval status in 4 jurisdiction(s), route-level risk assessment across multiple routes, and 3 toxicology endpoints from safety assessments.
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance agent · flavoring agent · anti-inflammatory agent · antioxidant · insect repellent
CARYOPHYLLENE
Also known as: Bicyclo[3.1.0]hex-2-ene, 1,3,3-trimethyl-, Caryophyllene, α-Caryophyllene
Molecular Weight
204.35 g/mol
Category
essential oil component
Bottom Line: Caryophyllene is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and food, though individual sensitivities may vary.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations in cosmetics
- consumed as part of food in typical amounts
- not combined with known allergens
- used in well-ventilated areas
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you are using other topical products
- you have a history of respiratory issues
✕ Avoid If:
- you are allergic to cannabis or related plants
- you experience irritation or adverse reactions
- you are using it in high concentrations
- you have a known sensitivity to essential oils
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 204.35 g/mol |
| Solubility | soluble in organic solvents, insoluble in water |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, shampoos, body lotions. Generally safe in low concentrations; patch test recommended.
Food
Spices, herbal teas, flavoring agents. Safe when consumed in typical food amounts.
Pharmaceutical
Topical analgesics, anti-inflammatory creams. Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider.
Supplement
Capsules, oils. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Caryophyllene is generally well-tolerated on the skin, with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Oral ingestion of caryophyllene is typically safe in food amounts, but high doses may pose risks.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low
Inhalation exposure to caryophyllene is generally considered safe in typical concentrations.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Eye contact with caryophyllene may cause irritation; caution is advised.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Children may have heightened sensitivity to caryophyllene.
- pregnant — Limited data on effects during pregnancy necessitates caution.
- sensitive_skin — Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally well-tolerated by adults with minimal adverse effects.
- elderly — Typically safe for elderly individuals.
- breastfeeding — Considered safe in moderation during breastfeeding.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Adults typically tolerate caryophyllene well, with minimal adverse effects. |
| pregnant | Low to Moderate | Limited data on high-dose effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | Moderate | Children may be more sensitive; use in lower concentrations. |
| breastfeeding | Low | Generally considered safe, but limited data on high exposure. |
| elderly | Low | Elderly individuals typically tolerate caryophyllene well. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Caryophyllene is a terpene with potential health benefits, though safety varies by use.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2018) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | No irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2018) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human patch test | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2018) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Caryophyllene is a terpene with potential health benefits, though safety varies by use.
- Found in various essential oils and food products.
- May have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Safety assessments indicate low toxicity in typical uses.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Caryophyllene
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Caryophyllene is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Caryophyllene
Year: 2019
Conclusion: Caryophyllene is safe for use in food at typical consumption levels.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Caryophyllene Regulatory Status
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Caryophyllene is generally recognized as safe when used appropriately.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Caryophyllene is permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Caryophyllene is generally safe for skin use in low concentrations, but patch testing is advised.
Yes, caryophyllene is safe to consume in typical food amounts as per EFSA guidelines.
If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-19T18:32:55.073376Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.