IS GRAPEFRUIT SAFE TO EAT WHEN TAKING BETA-CARYOPHYLLENE?

I’ve been asked a few times – can I eat grapefruit when I’m taking Beta Caryophyllene (BCP)? Well, to be honest with you, the first time I was asked this, I had no idea what they were talking about.  Apparently, with some medications, particularly anti-inflammatories, it is recommended that you don’t eat grapefruit. So really, it’s a great question to ask. 

Why Can’t I Eat Grapefruit With Some Medications?

Grapefruit is a healthy fruit – but it’s known to interfere with certain medications, especially those used to manage inflammation, cholesterol, blood pressure, and anxiety.

This is because grapefruit contains compounds called furanocoumarins. These naturally occurring chemicals block an important enzyme in your liver called CYP3A4, which is responsible for breaking down many medications. When this enzyme is blocked, your medication can build up to higher-than-intended levels in your body – which can potentially cause side effects or complications.

In short, grapefruit can make some medications too strong by slowing down how your body clears them.

I find that very interesting. But if BCP is known to help reduce inflammation as well, could grapefruit have the same negative effect?  First, let’s do a quick recap on BCP.

BCP – A Natural Anti-Inflammatory Support You Can Trust in Australia

Canna Oils Ultra is a popular choice across Australia for those looking for natural inflammation and pain support. It’s formulated with BCP to help support:

• Arthritis and joint pain
• Muscle recovery
• General inflammation
• Wellbeing and balance

And most importantly – it fits beautifully into most routines without interfering with your medications. (Of course, if you’re ever unsure, always chat with your healthcare provider.)

Is there any link between BCP and Grapefruit?

I couldn’t find any specific studies on grapefruit and BCP, but here’s what AI had to say (I know that AI isn’t always correct, but I found this interesting all the same – emphasis mine) – “grapefruit does not inhibit beta-caryophyllene. Beta-caryophyllene is a terpene found in many plants, including grapefruit. Grapefruit juice can inhibit certain enzymes in the body, notably CYP3A4, which can affect how some medications are processed. However, this interaction is specific to certain drugs and doesn’t involve beta-caryophyllene”. 

It’s interesting to note that BCP is actually found in grapefruit, so I would assume (and only assuming) that because it is a natural compound within the fruit, there wouldn’t be any contraindications or negative effects of eating the fruit and taking the oil at the same time.

But, although both substances independently promote anti-inflammatory responses, there is no strong evidence that grapefruit consumption negates or enhances BCP’s benefits, but pharmacokinetic interactions via enzyme modulation do pose a risk.  Your GP should be able to instruct you on this issue.

Final Thoughts: Beta-Caryophyllene vs. Grapefruit – No Worries Here!

We understand how careful you need to be when it comes to mixing supplements/food with medications. But when it comes to Beta-Caryophyllene, you can rest easy. You can eat all the grapefruit you want!!  It won’t block or change how Canna Oils Ultra works in your body.

Have more questions? Feel free to reach out – we’re always happy to help you on your wellness journey

sources: https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1046/j.1365-2125.1998.00764.x; https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/grapefruit-benefits; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9178201