Terpenes are fragrant organic compounds found in plants, including citrus fruits, pine trees, and herbs. These molecules are responsible for the distinctive aromas and flavors associated with botanical sources. Concentrated terpenes are extracted and used to enhance or modify the profile of various products. Because these extracts are potent, understanding the correct methods for application is necessary to ensure both personal safety and product effectiveness.
Understanding Terpene Concentration and Dilution
Concentrated terpenes must be diluted before any application. They are potent solvents that can cause irritation, chemical burns, or inflammation upon direct contact with skin or mucous membranes. Using the compounds in their pure form poses significant risks to health and safety.
To prevent adverse effects and achieve the desired aromatic or functional result, the final concentration of terpenes in a product should generally remain within a 1% to 5% range by volume. Some applications, such as professional “wash-off” topical products, may safely incorporate higher levels, but the 5% threshold is a widely accepted guideline for most consumer-mixed preparations. Starting at a 1% concentration or even lower is advisable, allowing users to gradually increase the ratio based on their sensory preference and tolerance.
Calculating the necessary volume of terpene concentrate requires simple arithmetic. To achieve a target percentage, multiply the total volume of your carrier medium (such as a lotion, oil, or extract) by the desired dilution percentage expressed as a decimal. For example, aiming for a 5% concentration in a 30 milliliter (mL) bottle requires 1.5 mL of concentrated terpenes (30 mL multiplied by 0.05). Carrier mediums like medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil are effective because terpenes are lipophilic and dissolve well in fats and oils.
Methods for Incorporating Terpenes
Aromatherapy and Inhalation
Inhalation is an efficient method for experiencing the aromatic properties of terpenes, typically involving water-based diffusers or specialized vaporizers. For standard aromatherapy diffusers, only a few drops of a highly diluted terpene solution are added to the water reservoir. Since concentrated terpenes do not mix well with water, using a pre-diluted blend or a water-soluble emulsifier is the most effective approach for even dispersion.
When using terpenes in vape cartridges or concentrates, the final mixture should typically contain no more than 10% to 15% terpenes by volume, with 5% being a common and recommended starting point. The equipment used for inhalation should be an adjustable-temperature vaporizer. Heating terpenes past their optimal vaporization point can cause them to break down into potentially harmful byproducts, such as benzene or methacrolein, a process known as pyrolysis.
Topical Application
Terpenes can be incorporated into topical products like lotions, creams, and carrier oils applied directly to the skin. This route takes advantage of the small, lipophilic nature of terpenes, allowing them to easily penetrate the skin barrier. The safe concentration for “stay-on” topical products, such as body oils or lotions, ranges from 0.1% to 10% of the final product.
Common carrier oils like coconut, olive, or jojoba oil are excellent bases for creating custom terpene-infused topicals. Before applying any new blend widely, it is necessary to perform a spot test to check for potential skin sensitivities or allergic reactions. To do this, apply a small, diluted amount of the final product to a discreet patch of skin, such as the inner forearm, and monitor the area for 24 hours for any signs of irritation or redness.
Culinary Use and Ingestion
Using terpenes in food and beverages offers a way to experience their distinct flavors and aromas, but this application requires caution. Only food-grade terpenes should be used for culinary purposes, and the final concentration must be kept low due to their potency. The suggested range for terpene infusion in ingestible products is typically between 0.01% and 2% of the final product, depending on the food type and consumption frequency.
Because of the high potency, terpenes should be micro-dosed into recipes, often measured in individual drops per batch or serving. For example, some flavoring guidelines recommend a starting point as low as 0.04% for beverages. Terpenes are oil-soluble, so incorporating them into fat-based foods or using a small amount of an emulsifier is the most effective way to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the final edible product.
Safe Handling and Storage Practices
Concentrated terpenes are volatile and reactive compounds, requiring proper handling and storage beyond initial dilution. To prevent degradation, terpenes should always be stored in dark, airtight glass containers. Dark glass helps block light exposure, which can accelerate the chemical breakdown of the compounds.
Exposure to oxygen, heat, and light leads to oxidation, which can diminish the terpene’s aroma and potentially increase the risk of skin sensitization over time. Therefore, containers should be kept in a cool, dark environment, such as a refrigerator, away from direct sunlight or sources of heat. When handling the pure concentrate, protective equipment like gloves and eye protection should be worn to prevent direct skin or eye contact.
In the event of accidental exposure, immediate action is necessary to minimize irritation and potential damage. If concentrated terpenes contact the eyes, they should be flushed immediately with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes, and medical attention should be sought promptly. For accidental skin contact, the affected area should be flooded with water and washed thoroughly with soap and water while removing any contaminated clothing.