# Copaifera (Copaifera langsdorffii)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/copaifera
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-30
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Amazonian
**Also Known As:** Copaiba, Copaíba, Diesel tree, Copal tree, Balsam copaiba, Brazilian copaiba, Copaiba oleoresin tree, Langsdorff's copaifera, Óleo de copaíba

## Overview

Copaifera langsdorffii is an Amazonian tree whose oleoresin is rich in β-caryophyllene and kaurenoic acid, compounds that modulate [inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s and exhibit [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). Most documented effects derive from preclinical models, with human clinical evidence remaining sparse.

## Health Benefits

• Antioxidant properties due to high flavonoid content, though evidence is limited to preclinical studies. • Potential [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects suggested by kaurenoic acid in preclinical models. • High β-caryophyllene content may confer some therapeutic benefits, but human studies are absent. • Phenolic compounds in extracts show promise in [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing in vitro. • Leaf extracts with high kaurenoic acid levels exhibit biological effects in animal models.

## Mechanism of Action

β-Caryophyllene, a primary sesquiterpene in Copaifera oleoresin, acts as a selective agonist of the CB2 cannabinoid receptor, suppressing NF-κB signaling and reducing [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) release including TNF-α and IL-6. Kaurenoic acid, a diterpene constituent, inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and may interfere with the arachidonic acid cascade to attenuate prostaglandin synthesis. Flavonoids present in leaf and bark extracts scavenge [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (ROS) by donating hydrogen atoms to free radicals, contributing to the observed antioxidant capacity in DPPH and ABTS assays.

## Clinical Summary

The overwhelming majority of evidence for Copaifera langsdorffii comes from in vitro cell studies and rodent models, where oleoresin doses of 100–400 mg/kg demonstrated [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) effects. A small number of pilot studies in humans have examined topical or oral application of copaiba oil, but these trials typically involve fewer than 50 participants, lack placebo controls, and report primarily subjective outcomes. One limited randomized trial suggested modest reduction in oral inflammation markers with topical copaiba gel, yet effect sizes were small and follow-up periods short. No large-scale, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials currently support definitive therapeutic claims for any indication in humans.

## Nutritional Profile

Copaifera langsdorffii is not consumed as a conventional food, so standard macronutrient profiling (protein, carbohydrates, fat, fiber) is not typically applicable. Its value lies in its oleoresin and leaf/bark extracts rich in bioactive compounds. Key constituents include: **Oleoresin (copaiba oil):** Composed primarily of sesquiterpenes and diterpenes. β-Caryophyllene is the dominant sesquiterpene, often comprising 40–57% of the volatile fraction; it acts as a selective CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonist. Other sesquiterpenes include α-humulene (~5–10%), α-copaene (~3–8%), and β-elemene (~2–5%). Diterpene acids include kaurenoic acid (ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid, ~3–15% of the resinous fraction), copalic acid (~5–12%), and hardwickiic acid (~2–8%). **Leaf extracts:** Rich in phenolic compounds including gallic acid (~1.5–4.0 mg/g dry weight), quercetin and quercetin glycosides (~0.8–2.5 mg/g dry weight), kaempferol derivatives, and other flavonoids contributing to total flavonoid content of approximately 8–20 mg quercetin equivalents/g dry extract. Total phenolic content of leaf extracts ranges from approximately 50–150 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g dry extract depending on solvent and extraction method. **Minerals (in leaf tissue, approximate):** Calcium (~8–15 mg/g), potassium (~10–18 mg/g), magnesium (~2–5 mg/g), iron (~0.05–0.2 mg/g), and zinc (~0.02–0.06 mg/g dry weight), though these values vary with soil and growing conditions. **Bioavailability notes:** β-Caryophyllene is lipophilic and has moderate oral bioavailability, enhanced when consumed with dietary fats or as part of the oleoresin matrix. Kaurenoic acid and other diterpene acids are poorly water-soluble, and their oral bioavailability in humans is not well characterized. Flavonoid glycosides from leaf extracts require intestinal hydrolysis for aglycone absorption; quercetin bioavailability is generally low (~2–5%) but may be improved by the presence of other phenolics and lipid co-administration. No standardized nutritional reference values exist for copaiba products as they are classified as traditional remedies rather than foods.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges are available due to the absence of human trials. Preclinical studies use varying extraction methods without standardized dosing. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Oral ingestion of Copaifera oleoresin in high doses has been associated with gastrointestinal disturbances including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping, particularly at doses exceeding 1–2 mL of raw oleoresin. Topical use is generally better tolerated but contact dermatitis has been reported in sensitized individuals. Because β-caryophyllene activates CB2 receptors, theoretical interactions exist with immunosuppressive drugs and cannabinoid-modulating medications, though direct pharmacokinetic interaction data in humans are unavailable. Use during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended due to the absence of safety data and historical use as an abortifacient in traditional Amazonian medicine.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials or meta-analyses specific to Copaifera langsdorffii are available. Current evidence is limited to in-vitro and animal studies focusing on its phytochemical properties and biological effects.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Copaifera langsdorffii has a history of use in Brazilian traditional medicine for its oleoresin, which is valued for its therapeutic effects against various ailments. The resins, composed of volatile sesquiterpene oils, have been used empirically in traditional practices.

## Synergistic Combinations

Turmeric, Ginger, Boswellia, Black Pepper, Green Tea

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is β-caryophyllene and why is it important in Copaifera?

β-Caryophyllene is a bicyclic sesquiterpene that constitutes up to 50–60% of Copaifera oleoresin's volatile fraction and is the compound most studied for therapeutic effects. It selectively binds the CB2 cannabinoid receptor without psychoactive activity, making it a candidate for anti-inflammatory applications. Preclinical studies show it reduces TNF-α and IL-1β levels in lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation models.

### Is Copaifera langsdorffii safe to take as an oral supplement?

Oral Copaifera oleoresin is considered potentially irritating to the gastrointestinal tract, with reported side effects including nausea, cramping, and diarrhea at doses above approximately 1 mL. Standardized supplement forms with defined dosages have limited human safety data, and no established tolerable upper intake level has been set. Individuals with inflammatory bowel conditions, those who are pregnant, or those on immunosuppressive therapy should avoid use without medical supervision.

### Does Copaifera have any proven anti-inflammatory effects in humans?

Current human evidence is limited to small pilot trials, including one study of fewer than 40 participants using copaiba gel for oral mucosal inflammation that showed modest reductions in gingival index scores. No large randomized controlled trials in humans have confirmed systemic anti-inflammatory efficacy. The preclinical data in rodent models using kaurenoic acid and β-caryophyllene is promising but cannot be directly extrapolated to human outcomes.

### What is kaurenoic acid and what does it do?

Kaurenoic acid is a tetracyclic diterpene found in Copaifera oleoresin that has demonstrated inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes in cell-based assays, reducing prostaglandin E2 synthesis. In rodent models, oral administration at 50–200 mg/kg produced measurable reductions in paw edema in carrageenan-induced inflammation tests. Its bioavailability and effective dosing in humans have not been formally established in clinical trials.

### Can Copaifera supplements interact with medications?

Because β-caryophyllene modulates CB2 receptor signaling, it may theoretically potentiate or interfere with immunosuppressive drugs such as corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors, though direct human pharmacokinetic data are absent. The oleoresin's terpene-rich composition may also affect hepatic cytochrome P450 enzyme activity, potentially altering metabolism of drugs including warfarin, statins, or hormonal contraceptives. Patients taking any prescription medication should consult a healthcare provider before using Copaifera supplements.

### What is the difference between Copaifera oil and Copaifera leaf extract supplements?

Copaifera oil (oleoresin) is a viscous liquid extracted directly from the tree's trunk and contains high concentrations of volatile compounds including β-caryophyllene and diterpenes. Copaifera leaf extracts are typically dried and processed herbal preparations with different phytochemical profiles, often emphasizing flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Oil formulations may have faster absorption but can cause gastrointestinal upset in some users, while leaf extracts are generally gentler on the digestive system. The choice between them depends on intended use and individual tolerance, as they have distinct therapeutic compound ratios.

### Who should avoid taking Copaifera supplements?

Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Leguminosae family should avoid Copaifera due to potential cross-reactivity. Those taking anticoagulant medications (such as warfarin) or platelet-inhibiting drugs should consult a healthcare provider, as some traditional uses suggest mild antiplatelet effects. Pregnant and nursing women should exercise caution, as safety data in these populations is limited and not well-established. People with severe digestive conditions or those prone to gastrointestinal sensitivity may experience adverse effects from Copaifera oil formulations.

### What does current clinical research reveal about the strength of evidence for Copaifera's health claims?

The vast majority of evidence for Copaifera comes from preclinical (laboratory and animal) studies, with very few randomized controlled trials in humans published to date. While in vitro and animal studies show promising antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects from its active compounds, these findings have not been consistently replicated in human clinical trials. Most human studies that do exist are small, poorly controlled, or focus on topical rather than oral applications, limiting confidence in efficacy claims. The evidence base is significantly weaker than for well-researched supplements, and more rigorous human studies are needed before strong health recommendations can be made.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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