Natural essential oils are quite popular in use today. Thousands of people use them for their own purposes due to their low price, ease of use and wide range of actions. Turpentine oil is a home remedy that is affordable and quite effective.
Turpentine oil is a type of substance that is popularly called turpentine. It is derived from the processing of pine resins or resin. This substance is characterized by pungency, color transparency, and a pungent aroma. The oil has an antiseptic effect; it can stop bleeding and also accelerate wound healing.
This pharmaceutical product can be used to relieve traumatic and neuralgic pain. After application to the skin, the substance can instantly penetrate the epidermis, while it irritates the receptors.
Turpentine oil, which is produced from resin, is consumed internally. But for such procedures a small amount is required, as well as consultation with a doctor.
This is an effective way to improve gastric and intestinal motility. It also has an anthelmintic and sedative effect on the human gastrointestinal tract. The substance is used in the form of inhalation, while stimulating the functioning of the bronchi.
An expectorant and disinfecting effect is observed.
The use of the substance is recommended for the following indications:
- respiratory diseases, the form can be both acute and chronic;
- rheumatism;
- radiculitis;
- myalgia;
- neuralgia.
Contraindications to the use of turpentine oil are pathologies of the kidneys and liver, as well as hypersensitivity of the body to turpentine. It is not recommended to use the drug if the body temperature is elevated. Among the side effects of using the substance, manifestations of allergic reactions are known. If the drug is made from resin, then sleep problems and insomnia may occur.
For recovery and beneficial effects on the human body, purified turpentine oil is often used in medicine.
To prepare healing turpentine baths, you will need to add no more than three tablespoons of oil to the container. If bathing occurs in a basin, then less drug is needed.
As prescribed by medical workers, treatment procedures are carried out for seven days. This treatment course can be repeated after three months.
A bath of turpentine oil, when properly prepared, has a beneficial effect on the endocrine system, improving metabolism.
Warm turpentine baths are an effective way to combat hypertension and heart and vascular problems. Those wishing to lose weight should also use this recommendation.
To cure diseases of the musculoskeletal system, doctors prescribe rubbing with turpentine oil. This substance is especially effective for joint problems, rheumatism and arthritis. The amount of the drug used should be selected individually for each person, since its excessive use can cause skin diseases.
Turpentine oil is administered orally for diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Such use must be very careful and diluted. The proportion is one to ten, but it should not be more than one teaspoon per dose.
Nowadays, people know many recipes that are based on the use of oil from oleoresin or pine resins. The effectiveness and safety of traditional methods of treating diseases and helping the body has been tested for years. Typically, such recipes are not included in official instructions.
To eliminate burns, it is necessary to prepare a mixture in a 1: 1: 1 ratio, which contains turpentine, sea buckthorn oil, and melted lard. Gauze is soaked in this substance and applied to the affected areas 3-4 times a day for 60 minutes for three days.
If a stomach ulcer occurs, you can prepare an alcohol tincture. To do this, you should grind 50 grams of resin, pour 0.5 liters of vodka or 40% alcohol into it. After seven days of infusion, the substance is taken an hour before meals in the amount of 1 tbsp. spoons. This procedure should be repeated three times a day.
Treatment of sinusitis and sinusitis is based on the use of a prepared mixture of oleoresin and sunflower oil. For a speedy recovery, this mixture is dropped into the nose before bed in the amount of 3 drops.
If arrhythmia and tachycardia bring discomfort to a person, then the solution of oils, the preparation of which is described above, should be rubbed into the heart area or taken in the form of drops for a month.
People also know an effective remedy for the treatment of periodontal disease. To carry out medical procedures, it is worth mixing resin with fine salt in a ratio of one to three. Next, you need to add castor and olive oil to end up with a creamy consistency. After this, rub the substance into the gums once a day.
Treatment for herpes is to apply a tampon soaked in turpentine oil to the affected area.
On pharmacy shelves you can now find a large number of essential oils that are of natural origin. Turpentine oil is considered one of the high-quality and inexpensive drugs.
User reviews indicate the effectiveness of this substance and its beneficial effects on humans.
It is often purchased as an antiseptic and disinfectant; it quickly stops bleeding and promotes wound healing.
You can also find positive reviews from people who have problems with joints and the musculoskeletal system. Users note that turpentine oil gives a good effect. People also often pay attention to the correct use of the substance and the need for prior consultation with a doctor.
To learn how to make turpentine baths, see the following video.
Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
This medicine is a product of plant origin, namely essential oil , obtained by distillation and further purification of the resin ( turpentine ) of Scots pine and is a mobile colorless liquid with a pungent taste and a specific odor. The liquid is insoluble in water, but is capable of dissolving in 12 parts of alcohol , and is also miscible in all proportions with benzene , chloroform and ether .
The main active ingredient in turpentine , alpha-pinene, easily passes through the epidermis and has an irritating effect on sensitive nerve endings. Biological endogenous substances released due to the effects of the oil also have a medicinal effect. For example, inflammatory mediators, such as histamine and the like, contribute to some tissue swelling , vasodilation , the formation of hyperemia , and endorphins and endorphins contribute to the pain-relieving effectiveness of the drug.
The distracting effect of turpentine when used topically, which creates an analgesic effect , is explained by the entry of two excitatory currents into the central nervous system. Where the impulse transmitted from the skin irritated by the drug prevails over the impulse from pathological areas of the human body, thereby weakening the perception of afferent transmission . In addition, a trophic effect is observed according to the principle of the cutaneous-visceral reflex (in the case of an influence on the Zakharyin-Ged zones ), as well as according to the principle of the axon reflex (carrying out antidromic (reverse) excitation).
The inhalation route of administration of turpentine oil leads to reflex stimulation of cough , with parallel mucolytic and expectorant effects.
general characteristics
Turpentine oil is a herbal remedy. It is obtained by distilling and purifying pine resin. It is otherwise called turpentine oil. It is a transparent, slightly yellowish oily liquid. It has a sharp, specific odor and a pungent, pungent taste. Turpentine oil is sold in 100 ml dark glass bottles. You can buy it at a pharmacy for 300-350 rubles.
The main active ingredient of this oil is terpene. It easily penetrates the surface layer of the epidermis, providing a healing effect on the body. For medicinal purposes, turpentine oil is used in its pure form or as an ointment. It can be made by mixing it with a fatty base, or you can purchase ready-made turpentine ointment.
Turpentine oil, instructions for use
Application in official medicine
Basically, turpentine oil is indicated for external (local) use in the form of rubbing. A certain amount of oil, depending on the course and severity of a particular painful condition, is applied to the skin in the area of problem areas and rubbed in with gentle circular movements.
It is also possible to use an oil solution for inhalations prescribed in case of diseases of the pulmonary system , where the percentage of the drug and the frequency of procedures are prescribed by the attending physician.
Use in folk medicine
There are many traditional medicine recipes based on the use of resin ( pine resin ), which are not included in the officially approved instructions.
Below are some of the most popular methods and techniques for its use.
For burns , a mixture is prepared in a 1:1:1 ratio of oleoresin , sea buckthorn oil and lard, which is used to soak a gauze bandage. For 3 days, a bandage is applied to the burn site for 60 minutes 3-4 times a day.
For ulcerative lesions of the gastrointestinal tract, it is recommended to prepare an alcohol infusion from 50 g of crushed resin and 500 ml of 40% alcohol (vodka). Leave for 7 days, then apply 1 tablespoon (15 ml) orally 60 minutes before meals three times every 24 hours.
In case of manifestations of sore throat , dissolve 1/3 teaspoon of pure resin after eating.
For sinusitis and sinusitis, mix equal parts of vegetable oil and resin . The prepared mixture in the amount of 2-3 drops should be instilled into the nose before going to bed.
For arrhythmia and tachycardia, the prepared oil solution can be rubbed into the heart area, and drops can also be taken internally. The duration of such preventive treatment is 30 days.
For periodontal disease mix oleoresin and fine salt (1:3) with the addition of castor or olive oil (until a sour cream-like formation), and then rub it into the inflamed gums several times every 24 hours.
For herpes , apply an oil-soaked tampon to the developing ulcer for 20-25 minutes several times a day.
For mastopathy, warm oil compresses are used.
Also very popular are baths with resin , which are recommended to be taken for the purpose of general strengthening of the body, normalization of sleep , skin rejuvenation , improvement of hair quality , etc.
These and many other methods of using pine resin have been known for quite a long time and indeed often give a positive therapeutic result, but in the case of serious diseases they are unlikely to replace traditional therapy.
Beneficial features
The widespread use of purified turpentine oil in folk medicine is explained by its healing properties. It has an antiseptic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. Penetrating through the skin, its main component irritates the nerve endings. This action helps reduce pain in muscles and joints.
Under the influence of oil, biologically active substances begin to be produced. They cause vasodilation and activate blood circulation, which causes redness of the skin and slight swelling. The oil also stimulates the production of endorphins and enkephalins, which provide an analgesic effect.
In addition, it has a hemostatic effect and accelerates the healing of superficial wounds. When used internally, turpentine oil has an antibacterial and antiparasitic effect, improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, stimulating its motility. If you inhale it, it activates the bronchi, producing an expectorant effect.
Contraindications and side effects
Do not use turpentine oil if you are hypersensitive. It often causes allergic reactions or severe skin irritation. In such cases, treatment must be stopped. And improper use of turpentine oil can even cause burns. Negative reactions occur especially often when using it for oral administration. Exceeding the recommended dosage can lead to gastroenteritis.
It is contraindicated to use this oil at elevated body temperatures, as it has a vasodilating effect and leads to a local increase in temperature. In addition, it should not be used by women during pregnancy. Studies have shown that turpentine oil increases the risk of miscarriage. Its use during lactation is also not recommended. This treatment should be used with caution in people with kidney or liver failure, as well as in children. Therefore, turpentine oil should be used only after consultation with a doctor, strictly following the recommended dosage.
Indications
The use of turpentine oil or turpentine is widespread not only in folk medicine. It is sometimes recommended by doctors, but only for external use. It is prescribed to be rubbed into the skin, used for baths or inhalations. Studies have proven that the use of turpentine oil is effective for various pathologies. It can be used to treat:
- neuralgia;
- inflammatory diseases of the joints;
- myalgia or myositis;
- radiculitis, lumbago, sciatica;
- rheumatism;
- acute or chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis;
- ARVI, sore throat, tonsillitis;
- herpes, periodontal disease;
- mastopathy;
- helminthic infestations.
This oil is often used when recovering from injuries or strokes. It is believed that it is especially effective for any pathologies that lead to limitation of motor activity. But it is recommended to use it only as part of complex therapy. The independently studied remedy is used as a general tonic and health-improving agent.
Types of some terpenes
While many terpenes exist in nature, scientists have only studied a few of them. Here are some examples of more well-known terpenes.
Limonene
Limonene is a common terpene that most people can recognize by its smell. As the name suggests, limonene imparts a citrusy scent to the skins of fruits such as lemons and oranges. Limonene comes in two forms: D-limonene and L-limonene. D-limonene, which has a citrus scent, is contained up to 90% in citrus essential oil and up to 6% in turpentine from pine resin.
Diagram of the effects of D-limonene on various health problems. Changes in the immune system and metabolism are shown. (source)
Studies indicate that limonene has the following therapeutic properties : (, , )
- anti-inflammatory
- strong antioxidant
- antiviral
- antidiabetic
- antitumor (breast cancer, colon cancer, melanoma)
- may dissolve cholesterol-containing gallstones
- relieves heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
- reduces inflammation in colitis and ulcerative colitis ()
- reduces the manifestation of depression ()
- reduces the risk of stroke in hypertension ()
- reduces the occurrence of complications in diabetes ()
- increases HDL cholesterol and decreases glucose levels ()
- prevents the development of fibrosis ()
D-limonene has been noted liver toxicity Limonene appears to modulate the behavior of certain immune cells and cytokines , which may protect the body from a range of problems. Limonene is considered safe for people who take it as a supplement.
Pinen
Pinene is another naturally occurring terpene. There are two forms of pinene: a-pinene and b-pinene. Pinene provides a fresh, vibrant aroma from many botanicals, including pine needles, rosemary and basil. Pinene also has some therapeutic properties. A wide range of medicinal properties of pinene , including modulation of antibiotic resistance, anticoagulant, antitumor, antimicrobial, antimalarial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
The terpenes pinene and limonene are present in the air of coniferous forests, providing beneficial effects on health. (source)
Shinrin-yoku, meaning “forest bathing,” is a Japanese therapy that involves taking leisurely walks in the forest, soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying the aroma. Shirin-Yoku can have a preventive and restorative effect on the human psyche and physiology. ()
One study compared the effects of hiking in forests with city walks and found that “forest bathing” (even looking at pictures of forests!) significantly reduced people's blood pressure, heart rate, and release of the stress hormone cortisol compared to similar walks in the city. ()
Comparison of walking in the forest and in the city. Reducing cortisol levels, blood pressure, heart rate and increasing heart power when walking in the forest. (source)
A study in Acta Salus Vitae notes that the amount of pinene in the air of a healthy forest is sufficient for therapeutic effects . Pinene acts as a bronchodilator, allowing more air to enter the lungs. It also has anti-inflammatory effects and can fight some infectious microorganisms in the inhaled air. (, )
A list of some diseases and conditions of the body where pinene has shown itself on the positive side as a therapeutic or risk-reducing agent:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD ()
- Acute bronchitis ()
- Insecticide against head lice ()
- Alzheimer's disease, through the protection of neurons from oxidation ()
- Problems with memory and mood deterioration ()
- Reducing antibiotic resistance ()
- Reducing thrombosis (platelet aggregation) ()
- Activity against certain cancer cells (melanoma, liver carcinoma, neuroblastoma ()
- Increasing the antioxidant (antioxidant) capacity of lymphocytes ()
- Protecting the stomach from aggressive substances and ulcers (, )
- Reducing the manifestation of eye movements during sleep, improving sleep quality ()
- Protection against oxidative stress (excessive production of ROS) ()
- Reducing the risk of endocarditis through bacterial suppression ()
- Improving body detoxification through activation of cytochrome P-450 ()
- Reducing inflammation of the pancreas during pancreatitis ()
- Reducing the activity of allergic rhinitis ()
- Effect on stopping seizures ()
- Anti-inflammatory effect through reducing the production of cytokines IL-6, TNF-alpha, COX-2 and blocking the inflammatory pathways MAPK and NF-kB (, )
- Treatment of IgA nephropathy (inflammatory kidney disease) ()
Myrcene
Myrcene is a terpene commonly found in plants such as hops, lemongrass, and thyme. The flowers of the cannabis plant also contain myrcene.
Myrcene is a strong antioxidant. One study in mice found that myrcene may help protect the brain from oxidative damage after stroke . ()
Another study in mice found that myrcene had a similar protective effect on heart tissue. Researchers note that myrcene may be a useful alternative treatment after ischemic stroke . ()
However, it is important to keep in mind that these studies used very high concentrations of myrcene, up to 200 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) (mg/kg) of weight. ()
Some terpenes and plants containing them
Another study in a cell model of osteoarthritis noted that myrcene appears to have anti-inflammatory effects and may prevent the destruction of some cartilage cells. This may make it useful against osteoarthritis. ()
Beta-caryophyllene
Beta -caryophyllene is found in many herbs and vegetables, such as cloves and black pepper. Like other terpenes, beta-caryophyllene can have anti-inflammatory effects in the body, which may reduce pain levels in some people.
In one animal study, beta-caryophyllene reduced inflammation pain and nerve tenderness. Other studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of beta-caryophyllene may be useful for treating long-term chronic pain , as the body does not show signs of developing tolerance to these effects. ()
Humulene
Humulene is a key component of the hop plant. Other plants such as cloves and ginger also contain it.
One pharmacology study notes that terpenes, including humulene, may have potential in preventing allergic reactions and asthma . In animal models, humulene reduced allergic inflammation in the airways. This could make it a useful compound for natural asthma treatment in the future. ()
Potential Mechanism of Anticancer Action of Humulene Terpene (Source)
Another study in food and chemical toxicology found that humulene may also have a protective effect on some cells. This protective effect may reduce the risk of cancer . However, this is only preliminary data, and scientists must continue to study the effects of humulene to confirm these claims. ()
Linalool
Linalool is the terpene most abundant in lavender and gives the flower its rich aroma. Linalool is one of the most important compounds in aromatherapy and is responsible for the calming effect many people get when they smell lavender or its essential oil.
Potential Benefits of the Terpene Linalool (Source)
Drug Delivery Research notes that linalool can affect the body in a variety of ways due to a number of properties , including: ()
- anti-inflammatory
- antimicrobial
- neuroprotective
- as an antidepressant
- antitumor
- anti-anxiety
Ocimene
Ocimene is a terpene found in a variety of fruits and plants, including parsley, basil, mangoes, kumquats and orchids.
Ocimene is known for its attractive, herbal and woody aromas. These strong aromas are found in many perfumes and help plants protect themselves from insects. Ocimene is able to repel aphids from plants, which may explain why mosquitoes do not approach flowers containing citrus oils, which are high in ocimene.
Medical benefits of ocimene may include antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, antiseptic, and decongestant effects. But these possibilities have not yet been fully proven. (, , )
Do terpenes affect people?
Many terpenes are biologically active, meaning they can have effects on the body. This effect will vary depending on the concentration of the terpene itself and how a person uses it.
Because terpenes produce vibrant odors, they form the basis of many essential oils and are an integral part of many alternative therapies such as aromatherapy . Inhaling the aromas of certain plants and essential oils can affect a person's mood and stress levels.
There is a lot of medical research on isolated terpenes, and some of them may even have medicinal uses. Research into chemical-biological interactions notes that many terpenes have demonstrated beneficial effects on the body and may serve as alternative medicine or even therapy . ()
