#Humulus lupulus

[crowlivar]

Humulus lupulus

[blackswallowtailbutterfly]

My Garden Flowers Part 1

Just thought I'd give you all the garden tour. :) I will update when I get more photos. This is of course not counting any of my ferns or conifers as they don't flower. I might do a series of foliage posts, though. All photos mine, unedited.

In order of appearance:

001. Canada Plum (Prunus nigra) Not pictured as she hasn't flowered yet. I have her in a shady spot and she's fairly slow-growing but healthy.

002. Yellow Monkeyflower (Mimulus guttata) An annual that sadly doesn't seem to have reseeded despite flowering profusely last year. But maybe next year! That happens sometimes.

003. Boreal Yarrow (Achillea millefolia borealis) The place where she is is north-facing so she doesn't get quite as much sun as she'd like, so she can get a bit leggy but she still flowers so it's fine.

004. Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) Not pictured as I haven't got any pictures yet, but I will if she flowers this year. I actually had to move her because she had planted herself in a not ideal location in my garden. Which is fine because I wanted one anyway.

005. Vierhapper's Aster (Aster alpinus vierhapperi) This was supposed to be Canada goldenrod, but it's okay because Canada goldenrod planted herself. I relocated her to the intended spot and they get along fine together. Asters and goldenrods generally do. :)

006. Common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) I did not plant this! Must have been given to me by a bird or squirrel. Sadly she didn't reseed. Oh well, she's a cultivar and I did get the wild type. Interesting to me that she actually flowered in that area when her cousin stubbornly refuses to.

007. Obedient Plant (Physostegia virginiana) This refers to the fact you can move the flowers around, not to the behaviour of the plant, which is very aggressive.

008. Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) Not pictured as she hasn't flowered yet.

009. Enchanter's Nightshade (Circaea lutetiana) I didn't plant her; she just started coming up everywhere when I removed the grass. She is not a nightshade. I've learned that even people interested in planting natives regard her as a weed. I disagree. She's not aggressive to other plants and she's pretty.

010. Northern Gooseberry (Ribes oxyacanthoides) Not pictured as she hasn't flowered yet.

011. New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus) Haven't tried her for tea yet, but she's a lovely little bush.

012. Sunchokes (Helianthus tuberosa) Aforementioned cousin of the common sunflower. Not pictured as she keeps making her flowerbuds too late in fall so the frost gets them before they can open.

013. Potato Bean (Apios americana) Not pictured as she hasn't flowered yet.

014. Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) SUPER fragrant, especially in the evening. This is an aggressive plant but worth it for the flowers, the fragrance, and the butterflies they attract. Not to mention the young shoots, flower clusters, young leaves, and young seedpods are all edible if cooked properly!

015. Northern Bayberry (Myrica pennsylvanica) Not pictured as she hasn't flowered yet. Her leaves are nice and evergreen, though.

016. Virginia Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) Also known as "wild strawberry", but so is her cousin. She flowers reliably every spring but no strawberries yet. The flowers themselves are edible but I keep hoping she'll make strawberries. lol

017. Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago) Not pictured as she hasn't flowered yet.

018. Riverbank Grape (Vitis riparia) Not the greatest picture, but the point is I will get grapes one of these years!

019. False Sunflower (Heliopsis helianthoides) It was hard to pick a favourite photo. They're really quite stunning. She blooms from July until the frosts of October. :)

020. Canadian Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis) Not pictured as she hasn't flowered yet. She's a wee little tree in the shade for now.

021. New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) Probably the most attractive of the Symphyotrichum asters, to be honest. The flowers are more compact than most of her relatives while still being a decent size, and the colour is much more saturated too. And the bees absolutely love her. But that doesn't stop me enjoying other asters!

022. Common Elder (Sambucus canadensis) She almost died when I potted her for the move. See I dug up as much of her taproot as I could, but she'd already gone quite deep and I had to break it. But she lived! She's quite big now and has these wonderful lacy white elderflowers every year, with elderberries to follow.

023. Coralberry (Symphoricarpos orbiculata) Not pictured as I didn't get any pictures yet. Should have when I first got her. She was in flower then. She hasn't since.

024. Black Raspberry (Rubus occidentalis) Not pictured as I don't have pictures yet. Don't know why. lol I've taken pictures of the berries. I'll remember next year.

025. Fox Geranium (Geranium robertianum) A true geranium I managed to trade for last year. You mostly find these in the woods and now I have her in my garden.

026-027. Common Hops male and female flowers (Humulus lupulus) I can't remember which is which, but yeah! I could flavour beer if I was a brewer. :)

028. American Spikenard (Aralia racemosa) Another one with lacy little white flowers, and it looks like some of them are going to fruit!

029. Silverweed (Argentina anserina) After several failed attempts, this one has finally taken off. Truly lives up to her name in the spring and has these nice yellow flowers later on.

030. Hoary Vervain (Verbena stricta) The name must refer to the leaves, which are kind of blue-grayish, because the flowers are just a nice purple.

[thecryptandtheincubus]

{{VENDU}}

ዛꚶᙏꚶԸꚶꕷ ԸꚶᖘꚶԸꚶꕷ έψιλον

HERBARIUM : Houblon (Humulus Lupulus)

LIEU DE CUEILLETTE : mon jardin

[kristo-flowers]

On a hop farm, Poperinge, Flanders, Belgium

[diogenesprintco]

Another floral print (for once created from my own brain without the help of various ornamental design books). It unintentionally ended up looking very hoppy, right down to the serrated leaves, so I've printed it in this thinned-out phthalo green as well.

[libraryofmoths]

Moth of the Week

Peppered Moth

Biston betularia

The peppered moth is a part of the family geometridae. It was first described in 1758 by Charles Linnaeus. This moth gains its name from its speckled coloration, which has been studied as an example of natural selection and population evolution.

Description This species has a short body with narrow forewings. The body and wings are the same white base peppered with black dots and irregular black lines. This speckled pattern may vary with some moths having very few spots and others having so many that they look as if they are black with white spots as opposed to white with black. In rare cases, the black on the wings and body is replaced with gray or brown and in even rarer cases the spots are a combination of brown and black/gray. These spots help the moth camouflage against lichen on trees.

The evolution of this moth had been studied extensively during the last two hundred years, which created the term “industrial melanism.” During the Industrial Revolution, air pollution killed off lichen and covered trees in soot. This caused moths with a black spots on white base (typica) coloration to lose their camouflage and die off due to predators. This caused a spike in population for moths with a darker coloration (carbonaria) because they had the camouflage advantage. Once environmental conditions improved, the lighter colored moths once again became the dominant coloration.

The male’s antennae are bipectinate, meaning it has two rows of rami going down either side of a singular flagellum.

Wingspan Range: 45 - 62 mm (≈1.77 - 2.44 in)

Diet and Habitat The caterpillar of this moth eats many trees, shrubs, and small plants such as Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Downy (Betula pubescens) and Silver Birch (Betula pendula), limes, sallows, poplars, oaks, Sweet Chestnut (Castanae sativa), Beech (Fagus sylvatica), Bramble (Rubus fruiticosus), Broom (Cytisus scoparius), Black Currant (Ribes nigrum) and Hop (Humulus lupulus).

They have a wide range, being found in China (Heilongjiang, Jilin, Inner Mongolia, Beijing, Hebei, Shanxi, Shandong, Henan, Shaanxi, Ningxia, Gansu, Qinghai, Xinjiang, Fujian, Sichuan, Yunnan, Tibet), Russia, Mongolia, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Nepal, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Europe and North America. They prefer habitats of woodland, scrub, hedgerows, parks and gardens.

Mating Depending on its location, this moth can have one or two generations per year. In Great Britain and Ireland, the peppered moth has one generation per year, whilst in south-eastern North America it has two generations per year. They emerge from the pupea in late May to August.

The females attract males with pheromones, which are carried by the wind. Males follow the concentration gradient to find the female. The male guards the female from other males until she lays the eggs. The female lays about 2,000 pale-green ovoid eggs about 1 mm in length into crevices in bark with her ovipositor.

Predators This species is a night-flying moth, making the vulnerable to bats. The males in particular fly every night to search for a female while females fly only the first night.

To protect themselves from birds during the day, this species rests on lichen covered trees to camouflage themselves.

The day time resting positions of this moth have been recorded and studied. This study shows that the peppered moth prefers resting spots that are covered such as below where the trunk and a branch meet, the underside of branches, and leafy twigs.

Additionally, the study found peppered moths with a lighter coloration (typica) blend in better against crustose lichens rather than foliose lichens because birds can see ultraviolet light. The peppered moth reflects UV light while crustose lichens don’t, making them easier to pick out.

Fun Fact The caterpillars of the peppered moth resemble things in both color and size. An experiment published in 2019 done on the caterpillars of the peppered moth showed that the larva (even when blindfolded) could sense the color of the tree they live on and change their body color to match and/or would move to a different twig that was closest in color to their own body.

(Source: Wikipedia, Butterfly Conservation, Max Planck Institute)

[konjaku]

熊四手[Kumashide] Carpinus japonica

熊[Kuma] : Bear

四手[Shide] : Sacred paper streamer used in Shintō

A deciduous tree endemic to Japan, it grows along roadsides in mountainous areas and becomes over ten meters tall. The wood is hard and is used as a material for furniture, tools, etc.

The fruiting ear that resembles the female flower of the hop(Humulus lupulus) are about six to ten centimeters long. It turns from light green to light brown as it ripens through the autumn. 熊 in the name was given because of its large size and 四手 because of its similarity in the way it hangs.

The flowering season is spring, and the shape of the spike is long and slender at that time.

[04dissection]

Content Warnings: Discussions of alcohol

As a note, I'm not a professional taxonomist or anything, was just curious about these things. So I might be incorrect! I just really like researching things, and I wanted to research the vines that appear in Tear Drop! (I also really like Tear Drop. Top song for me.)

This also all might just be a ramble about something completely not important, as @amugoffandoms actually suggested a reading of the vines being allegorical of the audience to Yuno- and if that's the case, then the species might not be important at all. Just things to keep in mind.

The vines in Yuno's room in Tear Drop are palmate in shape, with 5 lobes. From what I can tell, their margins are definitely not smooth, though I can't tell if they're serrated or just bumpy. Based on this description, and assuming this vine is meant to be Japanese, my best match for this plant is Japanese Hops, or Humulus japonicus.

These guys are MASSIVELY invasive in the states due to how fast they grow, to the point where when I began researching these, all I could find was sites stating not to buy these and how to get rid of them. If you know anything about the Humulus genus, you probably know about Humulus lupulus, or the common hop, as they are commonly used for crafting beer. Now, these guys actually aren't recommended for that- and in fact some of the sites I've found said they taste terrible! Something about lacking the proper oils.

Anyways, most sources told me these were largely used for both ornamental and medicinal purposes, but the medicinal purposes kept changing depending on what site I checked. Wikipedia said they had cooling properties and I tried to corroborate that(as I naturally do not trust what Wikipedia has to say and use it more as a jumping off point) due to Yuno's symbolism, but I couldn't find anything.

And yeah, just a quick thing on something I noticed, if any of you have a better idea what the vines are, I'd love to know.

[francescointoppa]

H – Humulus lupulus L. – Luppolo comune (Cannabaceae)

[kadunudtarkus]

Humal

Humulus lupulus L., Cannabaceae Metshumal, omal, tapud, tapunaadid, tapuvääned, viha, õlleviha Hops

Humal kasvab jõgede ja ojade kaldatihnikutes, vajukates niisketes kaldametsades ja metsaservadel, tihti ka kultiveeritavana elamute läheduses tapuaedades.

Ravimina kasutati humala käbi.

Humalat kasutatakse rahustina ja valuvaigistina põie- ja neeruhaiguste puhul, ka närvi- ja südamehaiguste ravimisel rahustusvahendina (valokordiini koostises) ning unetuse korral.

Korjatakse juulis ja augustus.

Kirjeldus

Humal kasvab jõgede ja ojade kaldatihnikutes, vajukates niisketes kaldametsades ja metsaservadel, tihti ka kultiveeritavana elamute läheduses tapuaedades.

Ta on mitmeaastane taim rohkete maasiseste horisontaalsete võsunditega, millest lähtuvad lisajuured ja varred. Vars on väänduv (paremale poole), 3-6m pikk, kuni 1cm jäme, kattunudkahetipuliste haajate ronikarvadega. Lehed vastakud, pikarootsulised, ülemised ümardunud või munajad, alumised kolme- või viielõhesed, tömpide hõlmadega, saagjate servadega, pealt tumerohelised, lidus harjaskarvade tõttu väga karedad, alt heledamad, kattunud hõredate kollakate näärmekarvadega; abilehed munajad, terveservalised, enam-vähem kokku kasvanud.

Humal on kahekojaline taim; isasõied hõredalt pöörisjad, kaenlasisesed, ebasarikjad, õiekroon 3mm pikk, 5 valkjasrohelise õiekattelehega, 5 lühikese tolmukaga, kollaste tolmukapeadega, emasõied tuhedas käbitaolises ebapeas lühikeste oste otsas, kattunud näärmetega, lühiraolised.

Õitseb juulis või augustis.

Ravim

Praegu humalaid ravimina peaaegu ei tarvitata, kuid varem olid ravivahendiks humala emasõisikud, "käbid" - sitobuli Lupuli - ja nendelt sõelumisel eraldatud näärmed - glandulae Lupuli ehk Lupulinum.

Käbisid lühikese raoga kogutakse veidi enne valmimist augusti keskel või lõpul, kui nad on rohekaskollased. Käbid tuleb kohe kuivatada väljas või õhurikkas ruumis õhukese kihina. Droogi moodustavad terved, mittepudenenud, rohekaskollakad käbid tugeva aromaatse lõhnaga ja teravalt mõru maitsega. Kollakaspruunid käbid on ülevalminud ega kõlba droogiks.

Humalakäbid ja lupuliin sisaldavad mõruainet, eeterlikku õli, vaiku, kollast värvainet, palderjanhapet, trimetpplamiini, koliini.

Toimed

Droogi on kasutatud rahustina ja valuvaigistina põie- ja neeruhaiguste puhul, ka närvi- ja südamehaiguste ravimisel rahustusvahendina (valokordiini koostises) ning unetuse korral.

Tavaline annus: 1 teelusikatäiest humalakäbidest valmistada ühe klaasi keeva veega tee ja see õhtul sisse võtta. Humal kuulub ka nn. rahustava tee koostisesse. Välispidiselt on kasutatud droogi hautisena reumavalude puhul. Humalakäbide keedist soovitatakse ka pea pesemiseks juuste väljalangemise korral.

Peamiselt kasutatakse humalaid õlletööstuses.

Taime levi

Allikad

Tammeorg, J., Kook, O. & Vilbaste, G. (1973). Eesti NSV Ravimtaimed. Tallinn: Valgus.

Eesti taimede levikuatlas 2020

[blackswallowtailbutterfly]

Native Plants I’ve Actually Seen Growing Wild in Southern Ontario

Acer saccharinum (silver maple) --along the sides of highways

Acer saccharum (sugar maple) --GTA ravines

Achillea millefolia (yarrow) --GTA ravines

Allium schoenoprasum (wild chives) --GTA ravines, Ridgetown

Allium tricoccum (ramps) --Niagara region escarpments

Amaranthus retroflexus (redroot amaranth) --fallow areas in the GTA

Ambrosia artemisiifolia (ragweed) --fallow areas in the GTA

Ambrosia trifida (giant ragweed) --parks in the GTA

Amelanchier spp. (saskatoon/serviceberry) --GTA ravines

Arisaema triphyllum (Jack-in-the-pulpit) --GTA ravines

Aronia melanocarpa (black chokeberry) --ravines and parks in the GTA

Asarum canadense (Canada ginger) --GTA ravines

Asclepias syriaca (common milkweed) --fallow areas, ravines, and parks throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to GTA

Asplenium trichomanes (maidenhair spleenwort) --Niagara region escarpments

Betula spp. (birch) --ravines and parks throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to GTA

Bidens spp. (beggar ticks) --GTA ravines

Caulophyllum thalictroides (blue cohosh) --GTA parks

Ceratophyllum demersum (hornwort) --GTA ravines (native in freshwater across the globe anyway)

Circaea lutetiana (enchanter’s nightshade) --fallow areas in the GTA

Commelina spp. (dayflower) --fallow areas in Windsor

Cornus alternifolia (Pagoda dogwood) --GTA wooded areas

Cornus sericea (red osier dogwood) --GTA ravines and in Windsor riverside parks

Crataegus spp. (hawthorn) --GTA ravines and parks

Echinocystis lobata (wild prickly cucumber) --GTA ravines

Elaeagnus commutata (silverberry) --GTA parks and fallow areas

Epilobium ciliatum (fringed willowherb) --fallow areas in the GTA

Equisetum spp. (horsetail/scouring rush) --GTA ravines and fallow areas

Erigeron spp. (fleabane) --GTA parks and fallow areas, Ridgetown

Erythronium americanum (trout lily) --GTA ravines and parks

Eutrochium maculatum (Joe-Pye weed) --GTA parks

Fragaria virginiana (wild strawberry) --fallow areas in the GTA

Geranium maculatum (wild geranium) --Windsor green spaces

Geranium robertianum (herb robert) --Windsor green spaces

Geum aleppicum (yellow avens) --GTA fallow areas

Geum canadense (white avens) --GTA fallow areas

Geum macrophyllum (large-leaved avens) --GTA fallow areas

Gymnocladus dioicus (Kentucky coffee tree) --GTA ravines

Helianthus spp. (sunflower) --GTA fallow areas and parks

Heracleum maximum (cow parsnip) --GTA ravines

Hordeum jubatum (foxtail barley) --GTA fallow areas

Humulus lupulus (hops) --GTA ravines

Hydrophyllum virginianum (Virginia waterleaf) --GTA ravines

Impatiens capensis (jewelweed) --GTA ravines and in Windsor riverside parks

Juglans nigra (black walnut) --GTA ravines

Lactuca canadensis (Canadian lettuce) --GTA fallow areas

Lilium michiganense (Michigan lily) --GTA ravines

Lupinus perennis (sundial lupine) --GTA parks

Maianthemum canadense (Canada mayflower) --GTA ravines

Maianthemum racemosum (starry false solomon’s seal) --GTA ravines and parks

Maianthemum stellatum (starry false solomon’s seal) --GTA ravines

Matteuccia struthiopteris (ostrich fern) --GTA ravines

Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot) --GTA ravines and parks

Morus rubra (red mulberry) --fallow areas in Windsor, GTA parks

Myosotis laxa (smallflower forget-me-not) --GTA fallow areas

Oenothera biennis (evening primrose) --GTA fallow areas

Onoclea sensibilis (sensitive fern) --GTA ravines

Oxalis stricta (yellow wood sorrel) --fallow areas and ravines throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to GTA

Parietaria pensylvanica (Pennsylvania pellitory) --GTA fallow areas

Parthenocissus quinquefolia (Virginia creeper) --Windsor fallow areas and GTA ravines and parks

Persicaria lapathifolia (curlytop smartweed) --GTA fallow areas

Podophyllum peltatum (mayapple) --GTA ravines and parks

Portulaca oleracea (purslane) --fallow areas throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to GTA (native globally anyway)

Potentilla norvejica monspeliensis (ternate-leaved cinquefoil) --GTA fallow areas

Prunella vulgaris (selfheal) --fallow areas and ravines throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to GTA

Prunus virginiana (chokecherry) --Windsor fallow areas, GTA ravines and parks, Niagara region escarpments

Pteridium aquilinum latiusculum (western bracken fern) --GTA parks

Quercus spp. (oak) --wooded areas throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to GTA

Rhus typhina (staghorn sumac) --parks and fallow areas throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to Collingwood

Ribes spp. (currants) --GTA ravines and parks

Ribes spp. (gooseberries) --GTA ravines

Robinia pseudoacacia (black locust) --GTA ravines and parks

Rosa spp. (roses) --GTA ravines, parks, and fallow areas

Rubus occidentalis (black raspberry) --ravines, parks, and fallow areas in Hamilton and GTA

Rubus odoratus (purple-flowered raspberry) --GTA ravines and parks

Rubus strigosus (American red raspberry) --GTA parks

Rudbeckia hirta (black-eyed susan) --GTA parks

Salix spp. (willow) --GTA ravines

Sambucus canadensis (common elderberry) --Windsor riverside parks, GTA ravines

Sambucus racemosa (red elderberry) --GTA ravines and parks

Smilax spp. (greenbrier) --GTA parks

Solidago canadensis (Canada goldenrod) --parks and fallow areas throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to GTA

Sorbus spp. (mountain ash) --GTA ravines and parks

Streptopus spp. (twistedstalk) --GTA parks

Symphoricarpos spp. (snowberry) --GTA parks

Symphyotrichum ericoides (heath aster) --fallow areas throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to GTA

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (New England aster) --fallow areas throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to GTA

Symplocarpus foetidus (skunk cabbage) --GTA parks

Tilia spp. (linden) --GTA ravines

Trillium grandiflorum (white trillium) --parks throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to GTA

Tsuga canadensis (eastern hemlock) --GTA parks

Typha latifolia (broad-leaved cattail) --marshes in Essex county and GTA

Urtica gracilis (slender nettle) --GTA ravines

Uvularia spp. (bellwort) --streams in Windsor green spaces

Verbena hastata (blue vervain) --GTA ravines

Viburnum lentago (nannyberry) --GTA parks and Ridgetown ravine

Viburnum trilobum (highbush cranberry) --Ridgetown

Viola sororia (wood violet) --fallow areas and wooded areas throughout southern Ontario from Windsor to GTA

Vitis riparia (riverbank grape) --GTA fallow areas, ravines, and parks

Waldsteinia fragarioides (barren strawberry) --GTA ravines and parks

Xanthium strumarium canadense (Canada cocklebur) --GTA parks and fallow areas

I’ve likely seen many others and just couldn’t identify them, but there are a lot I’ve never seen growing wild. What I’m hoping is that some of the native species I have in my garden will make their way to the nearby ravine. If I get around to it, though, I might just take a walk with some Asclepias incarnata (swamp milkweed) seeds in the fall. They certainly seem to successfully germinate in my garden whether I want them to or not (don’t have space for them to go crazy). Can’t see why they wouldn’t in a natural swamp area.

[thecryptandtheincubus]

ዛꚶᙏꚶԸꚶꕷ ᖘᕔᕓꗞᙁĬꕷ

HERBARIUM : Houblon (Humulus Lupulus)

LAPIDARIUM : Turquoise, Cyanite bleue

LIEU DE CUEILLETTE : mon jardin

[phenterminetoxic]

Beta-Caryophyllene in Nature: Key Sources Explained

Beta-caryophyllene (BCP) is a naturally occurring compound found in various plants, most notably in essential oils. This fascinating terpene has gained increasing attention due to its potential health benefits, particularly in terms of anti-inflammatory properties. Known for its unique structure and ability to bind with cannabinoid receptors in the body, beta-caryophyllene offers a range of therapeutic effects that are making it a popular subject of research.

In this article, we will explore the key sources of beta-caryophyllene, its role in inflammation, and the many health benefits it offers. We’ll also look at how beta-caryophyllene strains are utilized in different industries for medicinal and recreational purposes.

What is Beta-Caryophyllene (BCP)?

Beta-caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene found in the essential oils of many plants. This compound is best known for its distinct peppery, woody aroma, and it plays a significant role in the defense mechanisms of plants, protecting them from pests and environmental stressors. BCP is widely regarded for its ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system, specifically binding to the CB2 receptor. Unlike other terpenes, beta-caryophyllene is unique in its capacity to have cannabinoid-like effects, making it an essential compound for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

In particular, β-caryophyllene inflammation has been studied for its potential to reduce chronic inflammation, a key factor in many health conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer. Additionally, beta-caryophyllene has shown promise in pain relief, mood improvement, and anti-anxiety effects, contributing to its growing popularity in both medical and wellness circles.

Key Sources of Beta-Caryophyllene

Beta-caryophyllene is found in a variety of plants, especially those known for their therapeutic properties. Here are some of the most notable sources of BCP:

Black Pepper (Piper nigrum)

Black pepper is one of the richest natural sources of beta-caryophyllene. The pungent, spicy aroma of black pepper is largely due to this terpene, which is responsible for its characteristic heat. Research has shown that BCP in black pepper can play a role in reducing inflammation and providing pain relief. Additionally, black pepper is used in traditional medicine for its antioxidant and digestive properties.

Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum)

Cloves are another excellent source of beta-caryophyllene. The essential oil of clove contains high levels of this terpene, which contributes to its powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition to its ability to ease digestive issues and reduce pain, BCP in cloves has also shown promise in boosting the immune system.

Cannabis Strains

Certain cannabis strains are rich in beta-caryophyllene, which contributes to their therapeutic effects. Beta-caryophyllene strains are particularly popular for their potential to alleviate inflammation and pain. These strains may be useful for patients suffering from chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis or fibromyalgia. BCP’s ability to bind with the CB2 receptors in the body makes cannabis with high levels of beta-caryophyllene an attractive choice for those looking for natural remedies without the psychoactive effects of THC.

Hops (Humulus lupulus)

Hops, commonly used in the production of beer, are another rich source of beta-caryophyllene. This terpene is responsible for some of the bitter and aromatic qualities of hops. In addition to its use in brewing, BCP in hops has demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory properties, which can support joint health and reduce the discomfort associated with inflammatory diseases.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary is an herb widely used in cooking and aromatherapy, and it is also an excellent source of beta-caryophyllene. The oil derived from rosemary contains significant levels of BCP, which contribute to its ability to promote digestion, enhance memory, and reduce inflammation. Rosemary’s anti-inflammatory effects are particularly beneficial for treating conditions like arthritis and muscle pain.

Other Plants

Beta-caryophyllene can also be found in smaller amounts in other plants like basil, oregano, cinnamon, and cardamom. These plants not only add flavor and fragrance but also offer valuable therapeutic compounds, including BCP. When consumed, they may provide a natural solution for managing inflammation, boosting immune function, and promoting overall well-being.

How Beta-Caryophyllene Affects Inflammation

One of the primary health benefits of beta-caryophyllene is its ability to reduce inflammation. BCP’s interaction with the CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system helps modulate immune responses and reduce the production of inflammatory molecules. As a result, beta-caryophyllene is being explored as a potential treatment for conditions where inflammation plays a key role, such as:

Arthritis: Studies suggest that β-caryophyllene inflammation can be reduced in individuals suffering from joint pain and swelling caused by arthritis.

Autoimmune Diseases: The anti-inflammatory properties of BCP may help in managing autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s disease or multiple sclerosis.

Chronic Pain: Beta-caryophyllene may be beneficial for individuals experiencing chronic pain, providing relief without the need for harsh medications.

Moreover, BCP's ability to alleviate inflammation extends to conditions like acne, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders, making it an exciting compound for future therapeutic applications.

The Growing Popularity of Beta-Caryophyllene Strains

In the world of cannabis, beta-caryophyllene strains have gained popularity due to the unique effects they offer. These strains are known for their higher concentrations of BCP, which provide pain-relief and anti-inflammatory benefits without the intoxicating effects of THC. For those seeking the therapeutic potential of cannabis while avoiding the high associated with marijuana, beta-caryophyllene-rich strains are an ideal solution.

Many users report experiencing a calming, soothing effect from beta-caryophyllene strains, making them suitable for managing conditions like anxiety, stress, and chronic pain. Moreover, the potential synergy between BCP and other cannabinoids, such as CBD, may enhance the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, offering a holistic approach to wellness.

Conclusion

Beta-caryophyllene is a powerful, naturally occurring terpene with significant therapeutic potential. Found in a variety of plants, including black pepper, cannabis, and rosemary, BCP offers anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and mood-enhancing properties. As more research is conducted on its benefits, beta-caryophyllene strains and products containing BCP could become an essential part of natural medicine and wellness routines.

FAQs

What is beta-caryophyllene?

Beta-caryophyllene (BCP) is a terpene found in various plants, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the body, particularly the CB2 receptor, providing potential therapeutic effects.

What are the benefits of beta-caryophyllene?

Beta-caryophyllene offers a range of benefits, including reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and promoting overall well-being. It is also studied for its potential to help with conditions like arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and chronic pain.

Where is beta-caryophyllene found?

BCP is found in several plants, including black pepper, cloves, cannabis, hops, and rosemary. It is present in these plants' essential oils and is responsible for their characteristic aromas and therapeutic effects.

How does beta-caryophyllene help with inflammation?

Beta-caryophyllene reduces inflammation by binding to the CB2 receptors in the body, helping to modulate immune responses and decrease the production of inflammatory molecules. This makes it effective for conditions like arthritis and chronic pain.

Are beta-caryophyllene strains beneficial for health?

Yes, beta-caryophyllene-rich cannabis strains have shown promise in reducing pain and inflammation. These strains provide therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC, making them suitable for medicinal use.

[annaasher123]

The Science Behind the Perfect Brew: Yeast, Hops, and Fermentation

Brewing beer is a problematic science, a blend of art and chemistry that dates back hundreds of years. The adventure from raw elements to a pint of beer is predicated on three essential components: yeast, hops, and the process of fermentation. knowledge of their roles and the science behind them Now not only deepens our appreciation for beer, but also underscores the complexity of brewing. ---   

Yeast: The Microscopic Brewer 

Yeast, an unmarried-celled fungus, is the big name of the brewing method. It is accountable for changing sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide through fermentation. Two primary species of yeast dominate the brewing global: Saccharomyces cerevisiae (ale yeast) and Saccharomyces pastorianus (lager yeast). Ale yeast ferments at hotter temperatures, normally between 15–24°C (59–75°F), and tends to produce beers with fruity and complex flavors. Lager yeast, however, prefers cooler temperatures of seven–thirteen°C (forty five–fifty five°F), leading to smooth, crisp profiles. The selection of yeast not only determines the form of beer but additionally impacts its aroma and flavor. Yeast produces secondary metabolites like esters and phenols at some stage in fermentation, including fruity, spicy, or clove-like notes. The careful selection of yeast pressure is consequently a crucial decision in crafting the ideal brew.

Hops

The Taste Enhancer and Preservative Hops, the flowering cones of the Humulus lupulus plant, are every other crucial factor in beer. They serve more than one function: balancing the sweetness of malt with bitterness, enhancing aroma and taste, and appearing as a natural preservative. The bittering compounds in hops, called alpha acids, go through a chemical transformation throughout the boiling process. Heat converts those acids into iso-alpha acids, imparting bitterness to the beer. Different hop types have distinct profiles, ranging from citrusy and floral to earthy and piney. Brewers cautiously select hops to supplement the beer's fashion and supposed flavor. Furthermore, hops contribute to beer's aroma. Past-due additions for the duration of brewing or dry hopping (adding hops during fermentation) hold unstable oils, enriching the beer with fruity, herbal, or resinous notes

The Alchemy of Fermentation Fermentation is the heart of brewing

It's far from the degree where yeast metabolizes sugars derived from malted grains, remodeling wort (unfermented beer) into alcohol, carbonation, and flavor compounds. This system starts after wort is cooled and yeast is added. The yeast cells eat easy sugars like glucose and maltose, breaking them down into ethanol and carbon dioxide via glycolysis and alcoholic fermentation. The system additionally produces warmth, which brewers need to manipulate to avoid off-flavors. Fermentation occurs in two stages: number one and secondary. At some point of number one fermentation, the yeast is most lively, and the general public of alcohol is produced. Secondary fermentation, often at a lower temperature, permits flavors to mature and clarify. For sure beer styles consisting of Belgian ales, brewers may encourage a secondary fermentation in the bottle through adding sugar and yeast, growing herbal carbonation.

Balancing technological know-how and creativity 

While yeast, hops, and fermentation are the clinical backbone of brewing, the art lies in the brewer’s ability to balance those elements. A brewer should remember the interplay between elements: how the fruity esters from yeast will pair with the citrusy notes of hops or how the bitterness from hops will counteract the malt’s sweetness. Temperature, timing, and ingredient first-class also play pivotal roles. For example, moderate variations in fermentation temperature can extensively modify a beer’s flavor profile. Further, the timing of hop additions at some stage in brewing determines whether they contribute bitterness, taste, or aroma.

The function of innovation 

modern-day brewing has embraced science and generation to push limitations. Brewers test with new yeast lines, genetically alter hops to create unique flavors, and appoint advanced fermentation strategies. These improvements have caused the upward thrust of craft beer, offering lovers an ever-increasing sort of patterns and flavors. One top-notch fashion is the use of wild yeast and microorganisms in sour beers. Those microorganisms produce lactic acid, developing tart flavors that assess traditional beer profiles. Every other innovation is biotransformation, where yeast interacts with hop compounds to create completely new aromas and flavors, which include tropical or stone fruit notes.

Conclusion

The perfect beer is the end result of a sensitive balance among science and art. Yeast, hops, and fermentation all play imperative roles in shaping the flavor, aroma, and man or woman of the brew. Even as the technological know-how affords a framework, the creativity of brewers brings the method to existence, ensuring that every sip is a testament to the wonders of brewing. Understanding the science behind the ideal brew no longer complements our appreciation for beer but additionally highlights the ingenuity of the brewers who constantly innovate even as honoring centuries-old traditions.

[libraryofmoths]

Moth of the Week

Angle Shades

Phlogophora meticulosa

Image source

The angle shades is a part of the family Noctuidae. This species was first described in 1758 by Carl Linnaeus. According to Wikipedia, this moth gets its common name from the colors and marking on its wings.

Description The forewings of this moth are shaped with a sharp point. Most of the forewing is buffish as well as the head, legs, body, and antennae. The middle of the forewing is split by a triangle. The bottom of the triangle lays on the termen of the forewing or “the edge of the wing most distant from the body.” The triangle is made of layers of brown and pink. The hindwings are whitish with darker veins.

ab. roseobrunnea ab. nov [Warren], the central triangle is a rich red brown tinged with fulvous (tawny/orange), the whole wing reddish tinged, and the green shades all strongly mixed with red, the metathorax and dorsal tufts also being deep fulvous instead of green; found in São Jorge Island in the Azores

Wingspan Range: 45 - 52 mm (≈1.77 - 2.05 in)

Diet and Habitat This species eats a wide range of herbaceous plants such as Common Nettle (Urtica dioica), Hop (Humulus lupulus), Red Valerian (Centranthus ruber), Broad-leaved Dock (Rumex obtusifolius), Bramble (Rubus fruiticosus), Hazel (Corylus avellana), birches, oak, basil, and broccoli.

They are distributed throughout Europe. Their reach spans eastto the Urals, southeast to Syria, Armenia, and Asia Minor, west to Azores, and south to Algeria. They are a strongly migratory species. It is found in a variety of habitats such as gardens, hedgerows, fens, woodland, grasslands, farmland, wetlands, heathland, and moorland.

Mating This moth is generally seen from May to October and has two generations per year. The larva overwinter in soil as pupa.

Predators This species flies mainly at night. They are presumably preyed on by nighttime predators such as bats. This moth uses its coloration to disguise itself as a wilted leaf when at rest. They can be seen during the day resting on walls, vegetation, and feces.

Fun Fact The angle shades is attracted to light and sugar.

(Source: Wikipedia [1][2], Butterfly Conservation, The Wildlife Trusts)