You absolutely cannot drink turpentine. This industrial chemical is highly toxic and dangerous, posing very severe risks to human health if ingested. Even small amounts can lead to life-threatening consequences.
Understanding Turpentine
Turpentine is a fluid derived from the resin of living pine trees, extracted through a distillation process. Its chemical composition primarily consists of terpenes, such as alpha-pinene and beta-pinene, which give it a distinct odor. This substance is widely utilized as a specialized industrial solvent, commonly found in paint thinners, varnishes, and cleaning agents. It also serves as a raw material in the synthesis of various organic compounds.
Immediate Health Risks of Ingestion
Ingesting turpentine can cause severe and immediate health consequences across multiple body systems. The digestive system experiences a burning sensation in the mouth, throat, and esophagus, followed by abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Vomit may even contain blood, indicating internal damage.
The respiratory system is highly vulnerable, with symptoms including coughing, choking, and significant breathing difficulties. If turpentine is aspirated into the lungs, it can lead to chemical pneumonitis, acute lung damage, and pulmonary edema, which are severe inflammatory conditions. This aspiration risk makes ingestion particularly hazardous.
Beyond the immediate burning and respiratory distress, turpentine also profoundly affects the nervous system. Individuals may experience dizziness, confusion, drowsiness, headaches, convulsions, and can progress to unconsciousness or coma. The kidneys and liver are at risk of substantial damage, potentially leading to kidney failure and liver failure, and blood may appear in the urine. Furthermore, cardiovascular effects like low blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms can also occur.
Recognizing Poisoning and Emergency Steps
Recognizing the signs of turpentine poisoning is crucial. These include symptoms affecting the digestive, respiratory, and nervous systems, as well as potential organ damage.
If someone has ingested turpentine, immediate emergency steps are necessary:
Call the national toll-free Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222 or your local emergency number (e.g., 911) immediately.
Do not induce vomiting, as this can worsen lung damage if the substance is aspirated.
If turpentine is on the skin or in the eyes, flush the affected area with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes.
If the person swallowed turpentine, give them water or milk immediately, unless they have difficulty swallowing or altered consciousness.
Move the individual to fresh air if they have inhaled the fumes.
Bring the turpentine container to the hospital if possible, as it provides important information for treatment.
Addressing Dangerous Misconceptions
Historically, turpentine was often used in folk medicine for various ailments, including as a dewormer or for respiratory and skin conditions. Ancient civilizations also employed it for perceived medicinal benefits. These practices are not based on modern scientific understanding and are dangerous.
Claims that ingested turpentine offers health benefits are harmful myths. There is no credible scientific evidence to support its internal use for any medical condition. While some commercial products like chest rubs contain small amounts of turpentine, they are for topical application only, not ingestion. Consuming turpentine, in any quantity, poses a serious risk of poisoning, organ damage, and even death.