August 22, 2022

Terpinolene: Terpene Highlight

Terpinolene is a cyclic monoterpene that can be found in many different herbs, spices, flowers, and trees. It is part of a group of isomeric hydrocarbon terpenes referred to as terpinenes. Though Terpinolene can be found in a wide range of plants and is fairly common, it is not often found in large quantities. It has been found to have calming and cleansing properties that make Terpinolene valuable in applications for the body and mind. The aroma of Terpinolene is as unique and multifaceted as the terpene itself. It can be described as herbaceous and woody with floral, citrus, and pine notes.

Benefits of Terpinolene

Terpinolene helps to ease tension and stress because of its significant sedative properties. It works to calm the mind and reduce the occurrence of panic attacks, restlessness, and insomnia which can be symptoms of anxiety. The relaxing sedative effects of Terpinolene increase when it is found in combination with Linalool. When used topically, it has been found to possess antifungal properties that can help to combat conditions like nail fungus and ringworm. Antimicrobial properties combine with this to make Terpinolene useful for preventing infections on the skin and in minor wounds. Its unique and versatile aroma makes Terpinolene an ideal ingredient for perfumes and other fragranced products like soaps and lotions. Terpinolene has also been found to repel pest insects such as mosquitoes and flies.

Essential Oils Containing Terpinolene

Tea Tree Essential Oil can contain anywhere from .04% to around 3% Terpinolene. It is known to be calming to the mind, allowing the brain and body to relax while also reducing feelings of stress. Tea Tree Essential Oil can also help to soothe skin inflammation and combat fungal infections including Athlete’s Foot and toenail fungus.

Nutmeg Essential Oil has been found to contain 1% to 2% Terpinolene. It can help to relax the body while also encouraging a positive, uplifted mood. Nutmeg Essential Oil has also been found to promote restful sleep, alleviate fatigue, and improve overall energy levels throughout the day.

Rosemary Essential Oil contains a small amount of Terpinolene, around 0.1% to 0.5%. It has been found to reduce stress levels and ease nervous tension to help alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation. Rosemary Essential Oil also has antimicrobial and astringent properties that can soothe inflammation and combat skin issues like breakouts and fungal acne.

Cajeput Essential Oil contains around 0.4% to 0.5% Terpinolene. It has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin that can help prevent infection and soothe conditions like psoriasis and acne. Cajeput Essential Oil has also been found to help soothe anxiety and stress while promoting an overall sense of wellbeing.

Sage Essential Oil typically contains 1% or less of Terpinolene. It works to balance our emotions and promote an uplifted mood and focused mind. Sage Essential Oil can also help restore moisture to dry and irritated skin and provide relief to sore muscles and joints.

Check out some DIY recipes below using essential oils containing Terpinolene...

Herbology Roll-On Perfume

Nature lovers want to embrace the outside world in every aspect of their life, including their signature personal fragrance. Terpinolene in Rosemary, Sage, and Cajeput essential oils helps to create an intriguing green and earthy aroma that is reminiscent of a warm breeze blowing through the herb garden.

Ingredients

Add the essential oils to the bottle. Fill the rest of the bottle to the top with fractionated coconut oil. Replace the rollerball and cap and gently shake to combine. Roll across the skin for a fresh herbal fragrance.

Super Soother Healing Salve

Little bumps and scrapes are a natural part of an active life but we need to take care of them quickly so we can get on to the next adventure. Terpinolene in Tea Tree, Rosemary, and Cajeput essential oils work to soothe pain and inflammation in minor wounds and burns while also helping to prevent infection for faster healing.

Ingredients

Small Metal Tins
4 oz of Fractionated Coconut Oil
2 oz of Unrefined Shea Butter
2 oz of Beeswax Pearls
50 drops of Tea Tree Essential Oil
25 drops of Rosemary Essential Oil
25 drops of Cajeput Essential Oil

Ingredients

Heat beeswax and shea butter in a double boiler until fully melted. Add coconut oil and stir to combine. Remove from heat and gently stir in essential oils. Pour into tins and allow to cool and set overnight. Apply a thin layer to the affected area to speed healing and combat germs and infection.

Workday Wind Down Bath Salts

Winding down at the end of a stressful day can be hard to do when we still have a million thoughts running through our head. Terpinolene in Sage, Tea Tree, and Nutmeg essential oils help to calm the mind and soothe anxiety while encouraging a sense of relaxation and allowing for a better night's sleep.

Ingredients