Pinene: Terpene Highlight
Pinene is a bicyclic monoterpene that is found in pines and other coniferous trees as well as many other plants. It has two structural isomers that can be found in nature, alpha-pinene and beta-pinene. Pinene is one of the most abundant terpenes on the planet and earns its name from the pine trees in which it is commonly found. Pinene has been found to have antibacterial and mentally stimulating properties that make it useful in a variety of aromatherapy applications. The aroma of Pinene can be described as fresh, earthy, and woody, similar to pine trees.
Benefits of Pinene
Pinene helps to soothe physical discomfort by reducing inflammation and easing pain. It can also help to improve respiratory function and provide relief for shortness of breath and other symptoms of conditions such as asthma. The abilities combined with Pinene’s antibacterial properties make it a powerhouse for protecting physical wellness. Pinene is believed to possess cognition-enhancing properties that help it to stimulate and awaken the mind. It works to improve focus and alertness while also boosting creativity. Pinene is also known to support neuroregeneration which can improve short-term memory and combat memory loss related to dementia and Alzheimer’s. Pinene helps to protect plants from pests in nature and this insect-repelling ability also extends to human use.
Essential Oils Containing Pinene
White Pine Essential Oil can contain anywhere from 10% to nearly 40% Pinene. It can help to support a healthy respiratory system by soothing coughs and symptoms of the flu and asthma with decongestant and expectorant properties. White Pine is also known for its ability to clear the mind and enhance concentration.
Fir Needle Essential Oil is found to contain between 25% and 35% Pinene. It can help to awaken the mind, improving alertness and focus while also giving a boost of mental energy. Fir Needle can also soothe pain in muscles and joints and help to eliminate harmful bacteria.
Camphor Essential Oil is found to contain around 15% Pinene with a combination of both isomers present. It has been found to ease coughs and congestion while providing support for the respiratory and immune systems. White Camphor Essential Oil also has a cooling effect that can help to soothe pain and reduce inflammation.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil can contain up to around 25% Pinene. It helps to increase circulation to the brain, working to stimulate the mind and combat fatigue. Eucalyptus can also soothe respiratory discomfort and eliminate harmful airborne bacteria that contribute to congestion and illness.
Helichrysum Essential Oil contains between 3% and 30% Pinene. It is known to have anti-inflammatory benefits that work to ease pain and swelling in the muscles and joints. Helichrysum can also help to soothe coughs and colds and combat symptoms of seasonal allergies.
Check out some DIY recipes below using essential oils containing Pinene...
Enhanced Cognition Aromatherapy Spray
After a long day of work or studying, we can sometimes succumb to mental fatigue and find ourselves unable to concentrate or retain new information. Pinene in White Pine, Fir Needle, and Eucalyptus essential oils can help to keep our minds alert and focused while improving memory retention.
Ingredients
-
4 oz Amber Glass Bottle with Spray Top
-
2 oz of High Percentage Alcohol
-
2 oz of Distilled Water
-
10 drops of White Pine Essential Oil
-
10 drops of Fir Needle Essential Oil
-
5 drops of Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Instructions
Add 2 ounces of high percentage alcohol to the bottle. Add the essential oils and fill the remainder of the bottle with water, leaving a little space at the top. Shake well before each use.
Breathe in Relief Vapor Rub
Whether it be from a simple cold or an ongoing condition, shortness of breath can impact our ability to do things we enjoy. The soothing power of Pinene in Eucalyptus, Camphor, and Helichrysum essential oils can ease congestion and inflammation in the lungs for easier breathing.
Ingredients
-
5 oz of Sweet Almond Oil
-
1 oz of Beeswax Pearls
-
2 oz of Unrefined Shea Butter
-
40 drops of Eucalyptus Essential Oil
-
30 drops of Camphor Essential Oil
-
30 drops of Helichrysum Essential Oil
Instructions
Heat beeswax and shea butter on a double boiler until fully melted. Remove from heat and stir in sweet almond oil and essential oil blend. Pour immediately into the container and allow it to cool and harden for several hours before using.
On the Move Joint Rub
Sore and stiff joints can cause discomfort, affect our mobility, and slow us down in our day-to-day life. Pinene in Fir Needle and Helichrysum essential oils can help to reduce inflammation in joints which works to ease swelling and pain.
Ingredients
-
4 oz Amber Glass Bottle
-
2 oz of Fractionated Coconut Oil
-
1 oz of Sweet Almond Oil
-
20 drops of Fir Needle Essential Oil
-
20 drops of Helichrysum Essential Oil
Directions
Add all the ingredients to a 4 oz bottle and shake to combine. Add a few drops to your hands and massage the oil into sore and tight muscles.
You may also enjoy...
