Terpenes: What Are They and How Do They Help My Body and Skin?

Have you ever wondered what makes a flower smell so good? Or a skunk smell so bad? The answer can be found in organic chemistry.

In short, compounds called terpenes are responsible for the distinct and recognizable aromas of plants and animals. But there’s so much more to terpenes than meets the nose.

In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into what terpenes are and how they can help with skincare.

We’ll explore what terpenes are, what they do, and how you can incorporate them into your daily routine for better mental and physical wellness.

 Terpenes: What Are They and How Do they Help My Skin Care?

If you’ve looked into natural wellness solutions, you may have heard the word “terpenes.” But you might not know precisely what they are or how they can benefit you– especially when it comes to skincare.

As stated above, terpenes are the organic compounds responsible for scents. Beyond the olfactory factor, terpenes are among the most diverse groups of naturally occurring compounds in the world, and they boast various health benefits.

That’s right. Terpenes have been scientifically proven to help prevent certain diseases and ailments.

What are terpenes?

Terpenes, also known as terpenoids, are the largest and most diverse group of naturally occurring compounds found in plants and animals. They’re most commonly found in citrus fruits and herbs and are the primary component of plant-derived essential oils. In addition, they are responsible for imparting the fragrance and aromatics of most plants.

Terpenes have many medicinal qualities which help heal the body from the inside out. These benefits include reduced anxiety, sleep aid, and pain relief. Terpenes can also aid in transdermal drug delivery, enhancing the penetration of medication through the skin.

What can terpenes do for my health?

Whether or not you know it, you’ve been exposed to terpenes in one way or another. They are found naturally in commonly consumed plants such as teas, thyme, and citrus fruits. After all, terpenes have been around for millions of years!

The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a human regulatory system that plays a distinct role in maintaining homeostasis or balance. It’s also responsible for vital functions of the body’s central, physiological, and pathophysiological processes.

Several terpenes on the marketplace can bind to your body’s CB2 receptors and activate your endocannabinoid system. The activation of the ECS can have a positive influence on many bodily functions. Some of these benefits include, but aren’t limited to:

• Reduction in inflammation and restoration of balance within the body.
• Regulate mood and reduce anxiety and depression.
• Alleviating chronic and neuropathic pain.
• Help reduce the development of cancerous cells.

How do terpenes help my skincare?

In addition to offering several health benefits, terpenes are helpful when incorporated into your skincare routine.

A study published by Planta Medica in 2006 noted that terpenes had shown successful skin penetration as a topical treatment. Terpenes' ability to penetrate the skin is an excellent way for users to reap the benefits of terpenes through topical application.

Terpenes are the key to maintaining healthy skin and restoring balance without harsher solutions. While there are many benefits to applying terpenes topically, the most common are:

• Analgesic, or pain-relieving, effects on the skin.
• Improve the skin’s ability to heal wounds.
• Balance and regulation of the skin’s sebum production.
• Reduction in inflammation within the skin cells.
• Provide an anti-aging effect by stimulating the skin’s natural collagen and elastin production.

Terpenes' natural ability to reduce inflammation is especially beneficial if you suffer from skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea! While research is ongoing, terpenes also show promising results in reducing the proliferation of skin cancer cells.

If you’re interested in incorporating terpenes into your skincare routine, our Revive + Repair Anti-Aging Brightening Face Oil is powered with beta-caryophyllene and various oils to restore balance in your skin.

How can I incorporate terpenes into my daily life?

There are several options if you want to increase and incorporate terpenes into your daily life. You can use them in various ways, such as ingesting, inhaling, and applying topically to the skin.

There’s a wide variety of different terpenes available on the market. Some of the most common terpenes are limonene, pinene, and myrcene. However, it’s essential to do your research as each type will have a different kind of influence on the body.

Most terpenes on the market come from hemp which is still highly regulated. Where you reside and local regulations can restrict your access to purchasing and traveling with your products.

However, hemp is not the only plant from which terpenes can be derived. Beta-caryophyllene also referred to as the “pepper terpene,” is unique because it is the only other terpene that interacts with the body’s CB2 system like hemp. It will bind with the CB2 receptors and activate the body’s endocannabinoid system. Activating the body’s CB2 receptors will not get you high; in fact, it is the key to unlocking your body’s innate ability to restore homeostasis and balance!

Naturemary’s products use beta-caryophyllene derived from cloves. We are the first wellness company to incorporate beta-caryophyllene into our skincare and wellness products.  

If you want to incorporate terpenes into your daily wellness ritual, try our +Balance Terpene Tincture. This safe dietary supplement is designed to work with your body, not against it.

It will quickly restore balance and help eliminate inflammation within the body while melting away pain, stress, anxiety, and more!

About The Author

Jasmine is a writer who is passionate about self-care and skincare. She has over eight years of experience in specialty retail in the bath, body, and personal care industries. After a long day, Jasmine practices self-care by curling up in bed with a book and a hot cup of tea.