What is turpentine?
Turpentine is a plant resin extracted from pine trees(Pinus pinaster, Pinus sylvestris), known since Antiquity for its antiseptic, expectorant and analgesic properties. After distillation, it yieldsturpentine essence, used in pharmacy, aromatherapy and industry.
It is mainly used externally to relieve joint and respiratory pain, and diffused to purify the air.
What are the benefits of turpentine?
Turpentine has many therapeutic virtues:
- Decongests the respiratory tract → Promotesexpectoration of mucus in cases of cough and bronchitis.
- Soothes muscle and joint pain → Natural anti-inflammatory action against osteoarthritis and rheumatism.
- Stimulates blood circulation → Warming and toning effect on skin and muscles.
- Disinfects and purifies the air → Used in diffusion for its antiseptic and purifying effect.
- Promotes toxin elimination → Detoxifying action through liver and kidney stimulation.
- Natural insect repellent → Repels moths, mosquitoes and parasites.
How to use turpentine?
Turpentine essence should be used with care, only for external use and inhalation.
As a friction or massage
- For joint and muscle pain → Dilute a few drops in a vegetable oil (arnica, St. John's wort) and massage the painful area.
- As a warming ointment → Mix with Vaseline or camphor for a rubefacient effect.
In inhalation and diffusion
- To clear bronchial tubes → Add 2 to 3 drops to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam.
- In atmospheric diffusion → Cleanses the air and keeps viruses and bacteria at bay.
Recommended dosage:
- Local application: always diluted to a maximum of 10% in a vegetable oil.
- Inhalation: 2 to 3 drops in a bowl of warm water, once a day maximum.
- Diffusion: 3 to 5 drops in a diffuser, for 10 to 15 minutes.
Is turpentine effective against joint pain?
Yes, thanks to its warming, anti-inflammatory effect, it :
- Relieves pain caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatism.
- Promotes muscle recovery after exercise.
- Improves blood circulation, reducing tension and contractures.
Often used as a friction or warming poultice.
Does turpentine help clear bronchial tubes?
Yes, thanks to its expectorant properties, it :
- Fluidifies mucus, facilitating evacuation of secretions.
- Decongests the respiratory tract, useful in cases of bronchitis, flu and sinusitis.
- Reinforces natural defenses during winter.
It is often combined with Scots pine and eucalyptus essential oils for an optimal respiratory effect.
Is turpentine a good antiseptic?
Yes, it is powerful against bacterial and fungal infections:
- Disinfects superficial wounds (formerly used as an antiseptic).
- Eliminates fungi and mildew by diffusion or local application.
- Cleans surfaces and purifies air when diluted with white vinegar.
It is often used to sanitize damp areas and prevent skin infections.
What's the difference between turpentine and turpentine resin?
- Turpentine oil → Obtained by distillation of the resin, it is used in aromatherapy and natural medicine.
- Turpentine resin → More crude, it is used in traditional pharmacopoeia and artisanal manufacture.
Pure turpentine is more concentrated and must be handled with care.
Where to buy quality turpentine?
Turpentine-based products are available in :
- Pharmacies and parapharmacies → Turpentine-based essences and ointments.
- Organic and aromatherapy stores → Softwood essential oils.
- Herbal and natural care shops → Turpentine-based products for massage and friction.
- Sites specializing in natural medicines → Concentrated extracts and respiratory solutions.
Choose natural, pure turpentine from sustainable forests.
Does turpentine have any contraindications?
Although beneficial, it must be used with care:
- Never ingest, as it is toxic by mouth.
- Not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women.
- Avoid in cases of asthma or respiratory disorders, as it can be irritating.
- Do not apply undiluted to the skin, as irritation may result.
- Handle with care, as it is flammable and volatile.
Controlled, reasoned use allows you to enjoy the full benefits of turpentine without danger.
